Recycle While You Organize

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Recycle While You Organize

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As you organize your home, there is no need to throw everything you don’t need away. There are several ways you can recycle what you don’t use or need. Your home will get neater and you will be helping the environment at the same time.

Around your home, you may have old appliances - small and large – that you don’t need any more. Sometimes you can get some extra cash if you take the time and make the effort to take them to a local recycling center or scrap yard that deals in metal. Although prices may vary based on demand, you can usually get a little bit of pocket money.

To make recycling easy, try setting if your own recycle center in your house. You can have bins lined with bags that can hold various recyclables, set up in your garage, basement or utility room. One can be for aluminum cans, another for plastic bottles, and another for paper. Any time someone sees something lying around, instead of just tossing it in the trash, or letting the junk mail pile up, they know they can put it right in the bins. When the bins get full, you can either set them out for the city to pick up (if they provide a recycling program), or take them to the local center. Also many organizations and schools collect aluminum cans to raise money. You may want to check if any groups do that in your area.

Almost anything in your home can be recycled. There are e-mail groups that are dedicated to "recycling" or "freecycling" things around the house. The lists are organized by local regions. If someone has something they no longer need they can list it to the group and it is claimed on a first come, first served basis. If someone is interested in the item, they e-mail the person off the list and arrange for a pick-up time. The lists have been known to offer everything from coupons to large appliances. However, most lists do not allow pets to be included. These kinds of lists are great for people who just want to get rid of a few things and don't want to bother with a garage sale.

Donating is also a great way to recycle your extra things that are in good shape. It helps people in need, benefits many organizations and keeps even more items out of landfills or incinerators.

Many items can be donated to area thrift or Salvation Army stores. One bonus is they will give you a receipt that will allow you to take it as a tax write-off. It is probably best to call and check with them as to their drop-off policies. Some places only take donations on certain days or hours. For larger items, some will schedule pick ups from your home.

Women's shelters often accept used books, toys, and clothes. Many times the families staying there have had to leave their homes with just what they were wearing. A few things for them to have while they are there can be a great comfort.

Some charities, including veterans' organizations like Purple Heart and Vietnam Vets, and other groups like Easter Seals, will actually pick up your donations at your home. If you call them, they have set pickup schedules for the neighborhoods in your area. All you have to do is leave your items outside on the scheduled date.

Some hospitals collect books, sometimes specifically for the children's wing. When your children outgrow their books, considering giving them away to a hospital for children.

If you start small and work your way up, before you know it, you'll be a recycling pro and have a much neater house for your efforts.