Cleaning out your closet?
Now what?

A Boulder County, Colorado Resource
for repurposing a wide variety of day to day items

Old Stuff, New Life

Why repurpose?

It really feels good to declutter your home, have fewer items to worry about,
and keep what currently gives you energy and meets your needs.

“This resource was so helpful in cleaning out my parents’ house before they moved to a smaller place.

I was surprised at how good it felt to keep stuff out of the landfill and find another place for the furniture, books, and even children’s clothing.” ~ Clara S.

Benefit for you

  • fewer items to manage

  • lighter and tidier feeling in your home

  • you have belongings that serve you right now

  • items you own have fresh energy

  • you care for the earth by finding a new place and purpose for your belongings

  • you keep stuff out of  the landfill

  • you shop at places with items in good or excellent condition and save money

Tips

  • think carefully before buying more stuff and beware of sales and bargains

  • beware of how easy it is to shop online and get things right away

  • try renting clothing for special occasions

"I help my little sister sort out her toys right before the holidays. She likes the idea of passing on what she doesn't use anymore. Thanks for listing the places I can take them.

The website has been really helpful." ~ Jason T.

How to do this

  • pick a spot like a closet, cupboard or drawer and empty everything out. Do this on a regular basis but put a time limit on it, like 15 to 30 minutes. Set a timer

  • go through everything and discard broken items

  • identify the items you are no longer using or want. Look through this list to see where you can sell or donate items

  • beware of wishes to keep things “just in case” if not used in 1 year

  • put back all the items that you feel excited about or are currently useful

  • get unwanted items out of the house immediately so you are not tempted to put them back

  • identify your good feelings at finding what matters to you and being able to access it

“My son cleared out his room before moving to college in another state. He found nearby places that took his sports equipment, art supplies and even old sheets and blankets.

Thanks for these great ideas!” ~ Michael B.