5 Reasons Donating Old Stuff is Better than Reselling
I know firsthand that decluttering can be so challenging - ESPECIALLY when it comes to getting rid of things you don’t need.
One of the most common questions I get during sessions is this:
“What do I do with all this stuff?”
Well, you have several options, including:
Garage sale
Online resale using OfferUp, Facebook marketplace, eBay, or Mercari
Cosignment and resale shops
Giving away to someone via a Buy Nothing group
Donating to a local charity
We firmly believe that donating old items is the best option. Below, we will explore the many benefits of donating and why it can be a simpler and more rewarding choice for both individuals and communities.
Reason 1: It’s So Fast and Easy
One of the biggest advantages of donating old items is how easy it is.
Reselling items or organizing a garage sale requires time and effort to photograph, list, and advertise the items, negotiate prices, handle potential buyers, and manage the financial transactions.
On the other hand, donating items involves a straightforward process of sorting, packing, and dropping off the items at a donation center or charity organization. Many locations have an easy-to-use drop-off zone. You don’t even have to set up an appointment or interact with anyone. You can simply drive up, drop off, and go. In a matter of minutes, you’re done and instantly free of those items!
Furthermore, by choosing to donate items, you can save valuable time and energy that can be better spent on other productive activities, like organizing!
Reason 2: Clear Clutter and Focus on Minimalism
While many people stress over “getting their money’s worth” before getting rid of something, it’s important to remember that that’s not the goal. The goal is to only own what you love, need, and use regularly.
Donating old items perfectly aligns with the philosophy of minimalism and helps you clear clutter from your life.
The act of letting go and donating items can bring a sense of liberation and a fresh start.
By embracing a more minimalist lifestyle, you can create space for what truly matters to you and reduce the burden of “too much stuff.”
In this way, donating becomes a catalyst for positive change and a stepping stone towards a more organized, minimalist, and fulfilling life.
Reason 3: It Makes a Positive Impact
One of the most rewarding aspects of donating is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Donated items often find their way to people who are in need, providing them with essential goods and greatly improving their quality of life. By giving, you’re able to help someone in your community directly. Plus, it makes you feel good knowing you did a good deed!
By choosing to donate, you contribute to a greater cause, supporting charitable organizations and community initiatives that help those who are less fortunate. The satisfaction of knowing that your old stuff is making a difference is so fulfilling and far outweighs the financial gains of reselling.
Reason 4: It’s Eco-Friendly
Another great reason to opt for donation rather than reselling is the positive impact it can have on the environment.
When items are donated, they are more likely to be repurposed or reused, reducing the strain on natural resources and decreasing waste. By diverting usable items from landfills, we contribute to a more sustainable future
Additionally, donating allows others to embrace the concept of conscious consumption by reaping the benefits of second-hand items, thus reducing the demand for new products and the associated environmental footprint.
Reason 5: You Get Tax Benefits
You probably already know that most charitable donations give you benefits come tax season!
Yes, charitable donations are tax-deductible, allowing you to benefit financially while also supporting a good cause.
By donating items, you not only declutter your space, but also potentially qualify for tax deductions, which can provide significant savings during tax season. This added incentive makes the act of donating even more appealing, as it aligns both with personal financial goals and philanthropic values.
Need Help with Letting Go?
As professional organizers, we wholeheartedly advocate for donating old items. By embracing the act of giving, you can experience the joy of decluttering, contribute to a good cause, and positively impact your community and the environment. So, the next time you aren’t sure what to do with your old stuff, consider the power of donation. Remember, simplicity and fulfillment lie in the act of letting go and sharing your abundance with others.
And if you’re struggling with letting go of things, remember that we are here to help!
