Declutter and help others by getting rid of unwanted belongings

Anybody who has been in a home long enough likely has too much stuff hijacking their space, but those unwanted belongings could help others and even earn you a little extra money.

Megan Collins’ daughter just moved out to go to college, and she is in the process of turning her daughter’s old bedroom into a guest room.

“We’re getting rid of a little stack of electronics, everything from computers to curling irons. There’s a stack of CDs, there’s old books, there’s some of her tennis equipment,” Collins said.

Charities like Goodwill accept clothing, and what they can’t sell or repair gets recycled into cleaning cloths for industrial buyers.

If you have some books you no longer want, pop the titles into BookScouter.com and compare dozens of book-buying sites to find the one that will pay the most. Some sites, including Cash4Books.net even offer cash for used textbooks.

Small appliances that are in good condition can find a new home through a local Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Vietnam Veterans of America branch or other charities. Some counties, including Wake County, also offer recycling programs for non-working appliances and electronics.

Selling sports equipment, small furniture or instruments on Craigslist or Facebook’s Marketplace is easier then eBay because you won’t have to pay shipping costs. Take well-lit photos of your clean, uncluttered items to be sure to get the best price.

Unwanted bed linens and towels can go to Goodwill or the Salvation Army, but if they’re worn, local animal shelters usually love to give them new life as bedding for pets.

It’s always important to remember to clear out any personal information before getting rid of any electronics. For example, if you’re getting rid of a laptop, reinstall the computer’s operating system.