What Has To Go?

Posted on 28/10/2020

Things That Need To Go

The clutter space. We’ve all got one at home, whether it be a loft, attic, cellar, or even a full wardrobe. It’s a place which you keep telling yourself is sacred, where all of your old clothes, appliances and general knick-knacks live. You either know it’s there and keep putting off the inevitable clear out, or you keep reaffirming the belief that you’ll have a use for it all one day.

If any of the above sounds familiar, then it’s time to knuckle down and go and clear that space. This is a very good idea for many reasons. For example, if you’ve got a move planned on the horizon, the clean out becomes a necessity, not only to lighten the amount of things to transport to your new place, but to find sale fodder. There may be some gems up there that you could sell either at a local sale, or on eBay, to raise some extra cash to cover the moving costs. Especially if you’re considering a long distance move, like to Lambeth for example, or to elsewhere in London.

Cleaning can be theraputic and rewarding, too. Ridding yourself of the junk that clutters up your loft just has a feel good tendancy when it’s all done. Think of all that space you’ve freed up, and the potential uses it has in the future; you could use it to store useful items, or you could consider an bedroom or office conversion. If there’s lots of clothes and old toys up in the attic, you could consider donating some to charity shops for some more of that feel-good vibe.

So, those are some examples of the benefits. Now, how do you decide what to get rid of? Here’s what to consider:

Things that are broken beyond repair are destined for the rubbish heap

Old toys, old appliances, things like that. Whether they were broke or not when you put them there, if they’re broken now you’re better off throwing them away. Broken toys, unless they’re stuffed animals that just need a few stitches, aren’t any good for anyone. If there are bits falling off them, they’re just a choking hazard. The same goes for appliances, such as microwaves, kettles, etc. They’ll be too expensive to repair, and chances are if they’re in the loft, you’ve got a superior model downstairs. Bottom line, for the most part, the only place for broken things is in that rubbish bag. They’re clogging up space in storage, and will clog up space on the selling table, too.

Look for donation or selling fodder

As I mentioned above, the charity shop is a good place for old toys and clothes, either if you feel it’s not worth selling them, or if you just want to do your good deed for the day. Clothes that you’re never going to wear again are just being wasted in storage – they could be used to raise money or to be worn by someone who needs it more.

That being said, if you need the extra cash, look for items to sell. In these modern times, you don’t need to lug all of your things to the local weekend market to sell them on (although, this is still an option), instead, consider eBay to sell some of your knick-knacks that might have some value. They might end up surprising you.

You should be ruthless when clearing out your storage spaces, anything you don’t need need should go. Though, that being said, it doesn’t hurt to keep a hold of mementos, whether they be antiques, or sentimental items. Think about the future, too – if you’r starting a family soon, or know someone who is, then some of those old (non-broken) toys and clothes might come in useful. Just use your head and heart in equal measure, and you won’t regret getting rid of your old stuff.