2014 - destash thread The Year of the Great Purge

[delmar411]

Purple Heart comes tomorrow!!

20 bags of donations.

Feels so good. I didn't even bother to try to sell anything. Just want it gone from my house.

Also making good progress on my craft room...still days to go, but glad to see some floor space now.

Thank you for this thread!!

That's a lot of stuff! Great job!

 

[delmar411]

I'm not sure what to do. Every time I go in the basement I see the car seat, bases, and stroller and know I need to do something... they are taking up so much room!

Before DS was born we bought an Eddie Bauer travel system, and 2 extra bases so DH and I would each have a base, and then we gave one to my parents. We spent $300 on all that stuff brand new. Anyway... the car seat and bases were fine, but we hated the heavy bulky stroller that despite it's claims, could not be folded one handed. We used it maybe 5 times when DS was really little and it was nice to just click the car seat in it. He never actually sat in the stroller part. We went to Disney World when he was 9 months old and before we went we bought a new stroller - the Britax B-Agile and we LOVED IT. We definitely want to sell the Eddie Bauer stroller because I know we will never use it again. I'm not sure what to do with the car seat... you aren't supposed to sell used car seats or buy them (but people do it all the time) so I could possibly sell the stroller, car seat + 3 bases together. We definitely want another baby, just not sure when (and DS took 3.5 years to conceive) The Eddie Bauer car seat was manufactured in 2012, so it would expire in 2017. I'd have no problem keeping the car seat and bases to use again but it isn't compatible with our stroller. If the next baby is 4-5 years+ younger than DS, the seat will be expired then I can't sell it at all.

I don't know anyplace that buys carseats anymore and where I used to live people would flag posts on Craigslist that were selling them.

I would just accept that carseats are a sunk cost type item and just sell the stroller. You don't want to find yourself liable in a lawsuit should something fail on a carseat you sold.

Maybe if you have any friends that are expecting and want a spare bucket seat for one of the grandparents car? We gave away our Britax Frontier to a friend once my YDS outgrew the harness portion (we had 2 of these). I didn't want to toss it so a friend of mine said she wanted it. Made me happy to not see it go to waste.

 

[pjlla]

Making slow progress, but at least I am doing something! I told myself that no matter HOW busy my day is, I want to purge at least ONE item from the house (preferably from the basement) EVERY DAY....even if it is just a tiny scrap.

Tuesday was the hats and mittens I went through (although I only did one drawer.... need to do more). Yesterday I went into the basement and pulled out a box that I couldn't identify. Turns out it was labeled "memorabilia".... my favorite tag for "don't-want-to-get-rid-of-it-but-don't-know-what-to-do-with-it"!

While some of the contents of the box can/should be moved to the scrapbooking table so that I can get it into the right album (cards and letters), some of it was kind of "3-D" and will have to live in the box, at least for now. But it is only one small box (smaller than a copy paper box), so it isn't a bit concern. Plus I was able to purge several things from it (blank Christmas cards, extra envelopes), so although the box size didn't change, at least it is a bit emptier!

Today, unfortunately, will be about bringing stuff INTO the home. I have a second job that requires me to keep merchandise here at home. I got four big boxes delivered yesterday, so I'll have to get them unpacked and somewhat organized in my storage area (aka.... the unused playroom).

Taking a minute now to read back a bit and see how everyone else is doing!..........P

 

[pjlla]

Lonnnnng time lurker; but this thread has inspired. I am a minimalist anyways, but this thread helps a lot (knowing its ok to be one).

Have spent the week listing close to 60 items from around the house on ebay. Still have a large pile to photograph.

Something I have yet to figure out what to do with is 1/2 used bottles of coffee syrups (torani), sprinkles for cookie and cakes, and food coloring. I found I haven't used any of this stuff for months/years but I feel guilty just dumping it out. Any ideas?

I agree with many folks that say TOSS IT.... and then CELEBRATE the freedom of having some extra cupboard space! But if you are like me and can't STAND to waste anything (most especially food), then maybe do a bit of baking? Make some cookies or bars, use up the sprinkles, and then either share them or put them in the freezer and take them out as needed. As far as the food coloring goes.... I don't think it ever really expires, so I would put it neatly into a storage container, label it, and store it.

I lost my mojo and need someone to kick my butt.

I agree and second what the next poster said..... (see below)! And good luck.

We're only half way through the first month of the year! It's too early to lose mojo! You can do it! One bite at a time! Start small. One drawer or one cabinet. Set a timer for 10 minutes. You'll be amazed at how much you can get done in a short amount of time.

AMEN!!

I'm not sure what to do. Every time I go in the basement I see the car seat, bases, and stroller and know I need to do something... they are taking up so much room!

Before DS was born we bought an Eddie Bauer travel system, and 2 extra bases so DH and I would each have a base, and then we gave one to my parents. We spent $300 on all that stuff brand new. Anyway... the car seat and bases were fine, but we hated the heavy bulky stroller that despite it's claims, could not be folded one handed. We used it maybe 5 times when DS was really little and it was nice to just click the car seat in it. He never actually sat in the stroller part. We went to Disney World when he was 9 months old and before we went we bought a new stroller - the Britax B-Agile and we LOVED IT. We definitely want to sell the Eddie Bauer stroller because I know we will never use it again. I'm not sure what to do with the car seat... you aren't supposed to sell used car seats or buy them (but people do it all the time) so I could possibly sell the stroller, car seat + 3 bases together. We definitely want another baby, just not sure when (and DS took 3.5 years to conceive) The Eddie Bauer car seat was manufactured in 2012, so it would expire in 2017. I'd have no problem keeping the car seat and bases to use again but it isn't compatible with our stroller. If the next baby is 4-5 years+ younger than DS, the seat will be expired then I can't sell it at all.

My suggestion would be to donate it.... maybe to a crisis pregnancy center or a women's shelter. I'm sure they could definitely use it, you could get a tax deduction, and you would feel good knowing that you helped another mom take good care of her baby!

If you truly need the cash... sell it. Lots of folks doing it every day.... look for a local Facebook yard sale site.

***************************

Okay.... off to check with my friends on the WISH board and then get something done today!..............P

 

[delmar411]

Ok, Santa pics are up...nearly all the wall photos are up.....here are some pics. Please ignore laundry mountain on the couch. DH has been promising to fold it for a week but I'm out of time waiting on him so guess who gets to deal with it today? Sigh...

 

[LilSweetPeaPhoto]

I'm not sure what to do. Every time I go in the basement I see the car seat, bases, and stroller and know I need to do something... they are taking up so much room!

Before DS was born we bought an Eddie Bauer travel system, and 2 extra bases so DH and I would each have a base, and then we gave one to my parents. We spent $300 on all that stuff brand new. Anyway... the car seat and bases were fine, but we hated the heavy bulky stroller that despite it's claims, could not be folded one handed. We used it maybe 5 times when DS was really little and it was nice to just click the car seat in it. He never actually sat in the stroller part. We went to Disney World when he was 9 months old and before we went we bought a new stroller - the Britax B-Agile and we LOVED IT. We definitely want to sell the Eddie Bauer stroller because I know we will never use it again. I'm not sure what to do with the car seat... you aren't supposed to sell used car seats or buy them (but people do it all the time) so I could possibly sell the stroller, car seat + 3 bases together. We definitely want another baby, just not sure when (and DS took 3.5 years to conceive) The Eddie Bauer car seat was manufactured in 2012, so it would expire in 2017. I'd have no problem keeping the car seat and bases to use again but it isn't compatible with our stroller. If the next baby is 4-5 years+ younger than DS, the seat will be expired then I can't sell it at all.

I HATED the travel system we had w/ DD. I just scoffed off the advice from Baby Bargains that a $300 stroller was the way to go and to avoid the systems. Well I bought that $300 (online super cheap older model for $150). And I did sell my system. Like you, the stroller was going for SURE! I knew that. I also wasn't in love w/ the infant carrier/seat. It had a suede strip of material, that made poor DD sweat buckets. Also I was unsure when #2 would come along. So I listed the entire set on CL and got about $100 for it. When DS came along (4 years later), I just bought him a new infant seat (for $80) and was still using that $150 stroller anyways. I still came out a bit ahead, even having to buy another seat. After DS was done with his seat, I sold it in a mom 2 mom sale. It looked BRAND NEW and I even had the box to put it back into.

My kids were so HUGE and early sitters, I had them out of those carriers by 4 months and into their Britax seats. So my infant seats really did look brand new!

 

[dtr_angel]

Here are the Peter Walsh challenges for the past few days (in text, I rarely watch the videos!)

DAY 16: BAKING SUPPLIES ANYONE? - Rather than tackle your whole pantry today we're focusing on only those items that you use for baking ..... but if the decluttering mood gets the better of you then don't resist

DAY 15: JUST ONE DESK DRAWER (TO START WITH!) - Conquering just ONE drawer in your desk is a great way to get a little confidence in taming your home office clutter. Let's show that desk who's boss - get to it ..... and let me know how you do!!

DAY 14: DECLUTTERING YOUR CLEANING SUPPLIES - How many drawers, shelves and cupboards in your home have cleaning supplies hiding in them? Today's the day to find out

DAY 13: THE MAGICAL 'LOWER THIRD' - Today's challenge is all about decluttering the lower third of any pile of clothing in your home .... they're the items you're least likely to be using. Please SHARE this and let me know how you do

 

[thebeesknees]

I tackled a bookshelf in the computer room yesterday. It holds textbooks leftover from homeschooling, printer paper, mailing supplies, etc. Tidied it up, got a whole stack of books that can go and then made some calls to see if anyone could use them. My sister said she'd like some of it - the rest will go in the donation pile for whichever charity calls asking for donations next. The shelf unit looks so much better now. I am home unexpectedly today with a sick child, so I am going to head to the living room next and see if I can go through the toy boxes today to make room for the new Christmas gifts. If it doesn't fit in the toy box, then something is going to have to go! We have a 4-day-weekend starting tomorrow, so we will address my daughter's room then and see if we can't get her more organized and tidied up. Last time we did that, I got 2 bags of donations so hopefully, I'll do as well this time.

 

[dtr_angel]

Thanks for the suggestions on the car seat! I got on amazon last night after I posted and found a sort of adapter for $30. I read the reviews and Q&A and no mention of Eddie Bauer car seats. I went ahead and ordered it. Since it's a baby item, it has free returns. DH and I are going to try it out and see if it works. If it does, we will keep the infant seat & bases and sell the car seat. If not, I will try to sell them all together. I live in a small town so there aren't really any consignment shops or baby sales. My sorta distant cousin does have a consignment shop with mostly kid and baby stuff, but I think her commission is 40-60%. I don't have facebook to know what she sells if she even takes car seats. She is pretty cheap so I doubt she would waive the commission or give me a break on it, so craigslist is my only option lol.

Not sure what I am getting into today, I feel like I'm at a standstill now that I'm to the basement. I sorted through that box before lunch now I just have to find places for everything to go that isn't staying in the box. Then I need to set an alarm so I remember to wake DS up on time today! He slept 12 hours straight last night (10pm to 10 am) DH and I got up at 9 and actually started our day before him. He has NEVER slept through the night 3 nights in a row EVER so tonight could be the turning point... of course I work tomorrow and that always seems to throw things for a loop but here's hoping

It's almost the weekend! I think that's a prime decluttering/destashing time for most of you who work. I only work 2 days/month and my DH never has weekends off (right now its Monday Tuesday) so today is Tuesday for us, lol.

 

[mafibisha]

Purple Heart comes tomorrow!!

20 bags of donations.

Feels so good. I didn't even bother to try to sell anything. Just want it gone from my house.
Also making good progress on my craft room...still days to go, but glad to see some floor space now.

Thank you for this thread!!

I've done yard sales, eBay and consignment sales for the "good stuff", but this time I just wanted it gone, plus there wasn't much that brings a good price. Anything that is really sale-worthy, I've set aside but really tried to keep it at a minimum. My main goal is less stuff and more room...

This!!

I checked ebay and some items could be sold - eventually - but don't have time or energy.

Plus giving away may bless someone who needs it, the way I've been VERY blessed when finding deals at thrift shops.

And the tax credits (Turbo Tax) really add up. I was shocked how much things are *worth (capris $5 - $7!!?? ) and my donations really added up last year.

Thanks for re-affirming that Marshay!!

And thanks all for the inspiration to keep purging!!

 

[Mousegirl71]

I agree with many folks that say TOSS IT.... and then CELEBRATE the freedom of having some extra cupboard space! But if you are like me and can't STAND to waste anything (most especially food), then maybe do a bit of baking? Make some cookies or bars, use up the sprinkles, and then either share them or put them in the freezer and take them out as needed. As far as the food coloring goes.... I don't think it ever really expires, so I would put it neatly into a storage container, label it, and store it.

Going to toss most of it, just hated seeing something go to waste. I have learned over the years that organizations or groups use items that I never thought could be reused and normally throw out. Found a group at Church that even uses used greeting cards.

DH is working on adding a second tier to the closet, after only living here 7 years. I don't understand why a builder has a large walk in closet with only one shelf

Working on writing up listings from purging the master bedroom closet.

 

[littleelf]

Going to toss most of it, just hated seeing something go to waste. I have learned over the years that organizations or groups use items that I never thought could be reused and normally throw out. Found a group at Church that even uses used greeting cards.

And I learned recently that organizations like Goodwill or Salvation Army will often take clothes in ANY condition because they can sell the ripped/torn/stained stuff as rags. One less thing in the landfill!

 

[dtr_angel]

I worked in the basement for about an hour. Pretty much just moving things around but starting to see some progress and more floor space open! We just found out electronics recycling is anytime now in our county instead of twice a year. We have a big box in the laundry room of various electronics to recycle, and 2 old TVs. It's 25 cents per pound for the TVs, hoping they don't weigh too much!

While down there working I decided I'm sick of staring at all those bags and boxes of clothes and I want them out. Not worth the 50 cents - dollar/each. I wish there was somewhere else to donate besides Goodwill in this area. I'd rather spread donations out or at least used somewhere else different. I looked up Purple Heart that was mentioned here, but not in this area. DH took some pieces of an old desk to throw out on his way to work. The second bookshelf can be taken apart and trashed whenever he has time. I'm giving myself a month deadline to get the basement more organized so we can get an estimate on what our closet construction will cost.

 

[delmar411]

I worked in the basement for about an hour. Pretty much just moving things around but starting to see some progress and more floor space open! We just found out electronics recycling is anytime now in our county instead of twice a year. We have a big box in the laundry room of various electronics to recycle, and 2 old TVs. It's 25 cents per pound for the TVs, hoping they don't weigh too much!

While down there working I decided I'm sick of staring at all those bags and boxes of clothes and I want them out. Not worth the 50 cents - dollar/each. I wish there was somewhere else to donate besides Goodwill in this area. I'd rather spread donations out or at least used somewhere else different. I looked up Purple Heart that was mentioned here, but not in this area. DH took some pieces of an old desk to throw out on his way to work. The second bookshelf can be taken apart and trashed whenever he has time. I'm giving myself a month deadline to get the basement more organized so we can get an estimate on what our closet construction will cost.

Try freecycle for the clothes. Same with the bookcase.

 

[Marshay]

That's a lot of stuff! Great job!

Thanks! It's gone!! Yay!! Even if I do nothing else, I'm happy. This thread has made a difference in my life.

Of course, I plan to do more though...

Thank you all!!

 

[Marshay]

This!! I checked ebay and some items could be sold - eventually - but don't have time or energy. Plus giving away may bless someone who needs it, the way I've been VERY blessed when finding deals at thrift shops. And the tax credits (Turbo Tax) really add up. I was shocked how much things are *worth (capris $5 - $7!!?? ) and my donations really added up last year. Thanks for re-affirming that Marshay!! And thanks all for the inspiration to keep purging!!

You are welcome!

I'm so glad for this thread. I love to hear how others are doing, too! It helps us all.

 

[dtr_angel]

Try freecycle for the clothes. Same with the bookcase.

what is freecycle? Unfortunately this book shelf can't be reused. Its just a super cheap one from walmart and all the shelves are bowing from storing too heavy books on it and the back is falling off.

 

[pjlla]

Yesterday's purge isn't out of the house yet, but I'm working on it. I found a box in the basement marked "breakables from the china cabinet" (china cabinet was emptied and given to DD for her snowglobe collection at least 7 years ago... maybe more!) and it was full of vintage teacups, an antique Limogies pitcher, a Murano crystal bird (I think it belonged to my grandmother) and a few other dust collectors! I pulled out 2-3 tiny things and one tea cup that I want to keep and the rest can go. The teacups were originally my Mom's so I asked her if she would like them back. If she says no, then they will be posted on my FB yard sale group this weekend. I already took the photos in preparation for that.

Can't wait to see what surprises I find later today!...........P

 

[delmar411]

what is freecycle? Unfortunately this book shelf can't be reused. Its just a super cheap one from walmart and all the shelves are bowing from storing too heavy books on it and the back is falling off.

Freecycle.org

It is a site where you list things you want to give away and want gone ASAP for people to pick up for free. The goal is to keep things out of the landfills.

They send emails out to the group and if someone wants what you are offering then they email you. You pick who you want to get it and make arrangements. I normally just leave things on the porch for people so I don't have to deal with them. In my old area I could post something and have it gone, as in picked up and out of my house, in less than an hour...often times much less time than that.

 

[LilSweetPeaPhoto]

Since the roads were so crappy yesterday, I decided to trade my trip to the gym after school for some time in the basement. I started with moving our Christmas bins back to where they belonged (not just at the foot of the stairs where DH left them). Then I tackled the gift bags. We have like 10,000 gift bags. Some probably 10 years old! My goal, is to use those puppies up! Someone suggested using them any time my kids need to bring stuff to school, LOL.

I created a new bin of xmas bags, boxes and the few left over decorations I couldn't fit anywhere else. Then I finally made a bin of our easter stuff (baskets and eggs). Then I began to tackle a box of my old things. I pulled some stuff to just throw away, and some to donate, and then I have a pile that I'm not sure what to do with. Checking ebay, the items are selling in the $10 range. With $30k in debt, every penny helps right? Do I ebay or donate?

As I was working through the stuff, I bent over and BAM something happened in my low back and now I'm walking like a 90 year old lady (I've had back issues since HS). So my basement is now a disaster zone with piles everywhere. DOH! Maybe my back will heal up fast and I can get back down there this weekend.

So small $10ish items?!?! Donate or sell?