What do you do with the things that you no longer want?
Spring cleaning - what can you do with the things that you no longer want or need?
Sofas, beds, an old TV, a sole wheel of a bike, clothes that no longer fit, toys your children are too old for, the books you've read, the tiles you have left over, an old door, ornaments your great-aunt gave you, that computer from 1998 and the kitchen you replaced two years ago. They fill the garage, the cellar and/or the attic, they overflow the guest room, and one of these days you'll have a good sort out.
But where do you take them, who do you give them to?
1. Family and friends. Yes, absolutely. 'Charity begins at home' as the old saying goes. Which is fine when they want something, but often they are as eager to declutter as you are.
2. Charity shops. It's a good option. However, they are selective - it's quite understandable that they don't want to take things that they can't sell at a good price.
3. Sell them for a few quid (francs). Also known as advertising on Anibis, Petites Annonces or Facebook. It's often a lot of work for a few francs and unless you're really hard-up, you have to ask yourself if it's worth the effort.
4. La Récup'. It's simple to do, the items go to people who can use them, it benefits people in your local community (think extended family and a larger group of friends). And it prevents things being taken to the rubbish tip with all the associated environmental drawbacks.
5. The rubbish tip. Even we have to admit that there may be some items that nobody can use or reuse. Not many, for sure, but there are some.
But please, for the sake of the environment, if you have something that others could use, think La Récup' before you think of the tip. And for the benefit of your local community, think Free before you think Sell.