Appliances, Mattresses And More: How To Get Rid Of Practically Anything

Whether you’re moving somewhere new or you’re just trying to clean out your closet, you might find yourself with a lot of stuff that you can’t exactly just throw in the trash. Some items still might be in good shape, which means you definitely don’t want to let it go to waste. So what to do with all this stuff? Luckily, there is a resource for everything.

If you have some home goods you’re done with but don’t want to toss, here are some tips on how to get rid of these common household items.

1. Large Appliances

Many large retailers will take your old appliance back for you when you buy a new one, but if you aren’t purchasing anything new, you can find a recycling company to help you.

Some appliances require disposal of chemicals or liquid before they can be recycled. Large appliances include washing machines, dryers, hot water heaters, microwaves, ovens, dehumidifiers, stoves, refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners and furnaces.

2. Cell Phones

Don’t let old cell phones accumulate in your drawer. Reset your device, take out your SIM card, and recycle it. Many wireless providers have recycling programs, or you can also donate your cell phone for charitable purposes.

3. Bicycles

Many local programs will come pick up old bicycles or bike parts. These non-profit organizations often refurbish these bikes and use them for a good cause, or they will send them overseas to developing countries.

4. Clothing

Most of us accumulate old clothing over time, and you can donate them to thrift shops or even arrange to have them picked up. Good options include Goodwill and the Salvation Army. You can also donate old clothing to your local homeless shelter.

5. Books

There are many resources to sell your books online, but you can also donate old books to your local library, local schools, senior centers, and more.

There are also a number of book donation programs, including Books for Soldiers and Books for Africa, but these options may require you to ship them.

6. Furniture

If it’s in good condition, places like Goodwill and the Salvation army will accept furniture donation, and you can schedule with them to get your items picked up.

Websites such as Craigslist are great for selling furniture — just try to add a photo. If your furniture is old and bad quality, contact your trash collector for curbside pickup.

7. Mattresses

Mattresses end up sitting in landfills, so try to avoid just throwing yours in the trash. If it’s in decent condition, donate it to a local homeless shelter or to Goodwill or Salvation army. You can also look for a local recycler online.

Photo by FoolishMastermind