With more and more time spent at home, I've gone through multiple spurts of Marie Kondo's KonMari Method™. Decluttering and organizing my apartment has been so rewarding -- and my apartment looks so good. If you're looking to do some early spring cleaning, here are simple ways to sell, donate, or recycle those unwanted items.
Donate
- Housing Works: This thrift shop counts on donations to help fund its mission to provide lifesaving services for those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. They accept clothing, accessories, jewelry, shoes, housewares, books, and furniture. The items must be in good condition, and they prefer clothes to be wrapped in plastic bags.
- NYC.gov provides an additional resource and directory of donation drop-offs through the city. The website filters by accepted donations with places taking everything from books and toys to clothes, appliances, and furniture.
Sell
- Facebook: Through Facebook Marketplace or a neighborhood group, Facebook is a great place to sell items. I have sold everything from window screens to baby items. There is often someone looking for the exact item you no longer need.
- Consignment Shops: If you have an item that is in amazing condition, and you want to try to sell it, try a consignment shop, like Jane’s Exchange - a children’s and maternity store in the East Village - or an online shop like ThredUp. The businesses handle the selling, you get a percentage, and you're on your way. Jane’s Exchange accepts clothing, books, and baby items, while ThredUp accepts clothing and accessories for women and children.
- Poshmark or Mercari: If you're ready to make a little extra cash, these marketplace apps make it easy to sell clothes, shoes, makeup & more. Letting go has never felt so good.
Recycle
Textiles make up 6% of NYC's residential waste stream. In most cases, there are opportunities to divert clothing and textiles from landfills for reuse and recycling. Click here to find nearby locations to recycle unwanted textiles.
Written by Kate Roth