gotta appreciate shelbi for including h&m as an option for clothing recycling in order to be more accessible despite the fact that she hates the company
the underwear brand Knickey has a recycling program .. you can send them your old undies, bras & socks no matter what brand & they will turn them into insulation for their warehouses. There’s a whole video on their website showing how they do it!!
Just a fun fact, I used to work at Best Buy in the computer department, and when people drop off old computers or hard drives, we use a drill to drill a hole though the disk drive it self so that they are unuseable, so all customer info is destroyed :) don't know about other place, but best buy does.
Bleh, I wish being low waste with social anxiety was easier. There's so much "be in a community" "sell stuff locally and people come pick up" "get in a no buy group" "do a swap party" and I'm over here like... pls something where I don't have to talk to people
My MIL is uncomfortable but I don't mind, so I just sell her stuff when I'm selling mine. Try reaching out to friends and family and mention your dilemma.
omg yes this is exactly what I feel!!!! but I hate just dropping off to donation places cause I feel like they don't resell everything and throw a lot away :/
Check out apps like mercari where you can sell stuff you dont need anymore for some extra cash. That app has helped me declutter a lot of stuff that I know is going to go to a good home and be used.
Tbh buy nothing groups are really low interaction in my experience! Interactions tend to a follow a y/n basis if that makes sense, like "Is this item available still?" "Y/N" and fairly quick and painless ish. Making a post and then ppl reply is a bit more intense, but you can make a big post with a lot of items or just one at at time! whatever feels best for you! I also just leave the items outside, especially with the pandemic and I've never talked to someone from a buy nothing face to face
Carpets: if you think your carpet is too gross to be saved and the only option is to replace it, get a professional carpet cleaner in. These guys are literally magic. Living in a rented place where the carpet has been down for 12 years and had never been professionally cleaned - pets, smokers - one lady let her son keep his muddy bike in the living room. The carpet was so gross, but now it looks like new. Also apparently cheap carpets are easier to clean bc they're made of plastic, so the dirt doesn't sink in as much.
Cheap plastic carpets crush easier and leave microfibers for littles to inhale from crawling on the floor. I don't not recommend plastic rugs. Loop pile in cotton or sisal are best for the environment. And can be decomposed
For H&M, their recycling program has been working on a recycling process/machine that separates mixed fiber fabrics to reuse the fibers in H&M clothing which not many other places do that with their recycling processes. I used to work there, so I got to research and understand their recycling program from the inside.
My dad is our local “junk man” lol. He doesn’t resell the stuff most of the time but he’s an engineer so he’ll grab anything he thinks he can use for a future project!
Just a heads up, childrens hospitals and hospitals in general sometimes accept things like craft supplies, books, toys, games, movies etc. Maybe not right now due to the pandemic, but you can always ask! I spent alot of my childhood at a childrens hospital and I know they accepted donations all the time, I donated a bunch of my old toys and books to them when I got out of the hospital.
I'm definitely in the stage where I've declutter soooo much but I don't know what to do with it all T.T it can be really overwhelming wanting to downsize and simply you life while at the same time doing your best to not harm the planet in the process. Thank you so much for this video a lot of great tips and resources!
YES! I started my declutter process two months ago, and am still sorting through things. It doesn't help that where I live we just don't have as many resources to declutter sustainably (different country). I'm still sorting through the items that can be sold, fixing small things before passing stuff along, cleaning... it's so much. I hope to be done by the end of the year.
This video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time! I’m moving overseas with my husband and I’m trying to declutter our apartment and clear out my childhood bedroom. I have so much stuff that I need out of my life!
SHELBI this video is your best one yet. Seriously this is one of the most helpful collections of information about recycling and sustainability-I know I always struggle figuring out what to do with electronics, denim that’s ripped in the thigh beyond repair, etc...and having all of these resources together in one video is PERFECT. I just really want to say thank you because finding all of those resources must have taken so much time and effort, but I genuinely think the effect is going to be well worth it. I know I’m going to be utilizing this information ASAP and I’m sure so many others will as well. Nobody out there makes sustainability as accessible as you do, and for that I am just so so so grateful!!!! I honestly never thought I would be capable of reducing my environmental footprint enough for it to matter until I found your channel. Still not sure why you don’t have 10 million subscribers....
ASK TEACHERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY! Elementary/PreK teachers would LOVE art/craft supplies, some clothing items, kitchen items, etc. If you don’t know anyone check the website for the school closest to you and just email the preschool or kinder teachers. They might even take adult items like clothes/household goods for families they have in need.
when i moved, i stopped by the local library and donated books, cds, dvds, my old glasses, and there was a drop off for used batteries. they also accepted donations of tech, magazines, newspapers, cassettes, vhs tapes, hearing aids, and so much more! i love the library
Some of the things that have been thrown away or donated have probably only been worn once for a photo for instagram then it's in a pile of unwanted things!
Wow what a brilliant video. Thanks for helping the planet, our animals and needy people. I just gave some glasses to a lady up the road who sends them overseas and medicine, we had so much morphine ect after our father died. A doctor we knew sent them overseas and to my relief the next day they were in a country where people were having limbs amputated with no pain relief! How horrifying! So sad the economic disparity throughout the world. O love my human animal and plant family. I long for the day when the whole wold has enough🙏. Thanks for doing your part of imparting essential info to help this 🥰✌️✌️✨🫶
"A Small Wardrobe" coined the term "unbuying" rather than decluttering to better illustrate this intensive process; similar if not more so than the time and effort put into making an informed purchase.
That’s a great term! I do a declutter every now and then (rarely buy anymore, but had over 20 years of accumulated stuff to get through). The declutter takes a month, then it takes about six months to get it out of the house responsibly and sustainably. Then I start again. I’m in a pretty good spot now. Getting rid of things from the last declutter but am finally in a place where my now-low consumption lifestyle is reflected in a peaceful home. It’s taken a few years to undo so many years of unconscious consumerism and gift receiving.
A lot of clothes, home wares , linens, toys, baby items , car seats, and furniture can be donated to a battered women’s shelter. They are always in need of those things after women and children leave domestic violence with only the clothes on their backs. Call a United Way helpline for charities in your area for furniture for survivors of house fires, domestic violence and the financially marginalized. You can get rid of a lot of stuff fast and the people really need it and appreciate the cups, quesadilla maker, and baby items. Thanks for the video Shelbi!
Another tip for crayons! You can use silicone molds (like for chocolate and baking) to make cute new crayons! I just made dinosaur, cars, and robot shaped crayons which is also doubling as a Valentine’s present for my tot and his friends :)
Love all of these amazing tips!! I work at a pet grooming salon and a wildlife rehab center and we love getting donated towels! We are always happy to get towels to dry dogs and at the rehab center we love towels, pillowcases, sheets and blankets. So helpful!!
This is EXACTLY what I needed! I am new to your channel, but have loved the content as I try to improve my knowledge and practices in living a more sustainable/low-waste/eco-friendly/etc. lifestyle! :) Have a great day!
Yeeeees! Perfect timing! I just bought a house and have been “gifted” so many things that I don’t need. 😩 I’ve got a massive “donation” pile going, but just didn’t know what to do with them! This will definitely help!
I wanna plug looking into non-profits in your community. My roommate is a mental health social worker and often they need clothes for people who come in for long-term stays who only have the clothes on their backs. Whenever I can I try to give clothes that I know can't be sold(shoes, socks, sleepwear, etc)
I don’t usually comment but I can’t tell you how much I appreciate this video! I HATE the feeling I get when throwing away goods or even taking them to goodwill. I want to make sure things are going to be reused in a new home :)
Thank you for all of these resources, Shelbi!! I have a corner of my basement dedicated to stuff I’ve decluttered and I’m slowly going through the process of getting it out of our house responsibly!
For clothing recycling: If you have someone who sews in your friend circle/ family, let them sort through your materials! I save old clothing for interfacing, quilting, rag making, patches, etc!
Another option: If the clothes are still in a good state, instead of selling them or bringing them to a secondhand shop, you can always give them to a refugee shelter, if there is one close to your home. You have camps, but you also have houses or centres in cities. There is one close to my home that I wasn't aware of before, so it's interesting to take a look at that. :)
The refugee shelter near me only takes money and buy everything new. The policy is only new things for refugees to give them the best hospitality experience. This is not the case for other clients such as mental health people, womens refuge from violence families. I was pretty surprised to learn about the unofficial dual system. Several places where I volunteered we had a locked "secret room" we take the refugees with all the new stuff and let them pick. The other clients had to go through the 2nd hand store and pick out whatever used stuff they could find, and if no pillows, well, too bad. We were not allowed to grab a pillow from the secret room for them.
Thank you so so so so much for this video! Usually "50 things" type videos make me feel like "do there really have to be 50? I don't have the attention span for that" but the more suggestions for sustainable decluttering, the better! Saving this so I can refer to it over and over again! Eventually I'll start actually getting the stuff I've "decluttered" out of my house...
As someone who doesn't really watch videos that aren't educational, this is probably THE most useful and educational video I have EVER seen. I'm sitting on four sizable boxes of donation right now and after this video, I will be dumping all of it out and putting them into various boxes for a specific donation. I live in a city so I have no reason to think there isn't at least one of each of the specific reuse/recycle places near me. In face, I think I'm going to post this to facebook and see who else would like to declutter [specific thing I'm decluttering] and take/mail it to be reused/recycled. That way two homes get decluttered and I can spread the knowledge.
I won a few medals and trophies when I was burning myself out, and they remind me of that time. I mainly keep them around because of waste, but I’ll check if I can recycle them now!
I am currently working with my parents to eliminate an entire basement full of STUFF that has accumulated for over like 30 years... I will definitely be using these links to try and sort through as I get rid of the stuff. My next mission is making sure NO MORE STUFF is put in that basement.
I'm new to this sustainability world. Just want to say thank you for the time you put into this researching, recording and editing. I've also just started a baby garden. You've helped my anxiety and mental health so thank you so much! Love both your channels. 💗
I live in Korea and I see mattresses being thrown out all the time...it makes me so sad. I wish there was a TH-camr like you living in Korea with all these resources. That would save me a lot of headaches haha
So informative, thank you. I think I will try selling in the neighborhood yard sale this weekend instead of going straight to Goodwill. I’m going to let my family know that I will be regifting, hand making and thrifting for their gifts and also tell them I would like them to do the same for me.
Thank you so much for all these great resources. I’m in the process of decluttering and have looked for the best ways to deal with everything responsibly.
Did you mentioned Patagonia? Worn wear is their program to get discounts if you give them your old Patagonia clothes for future discount and you can also buy second hand items from them too.
Yess love this! I got my mom to watch the minimalist and she loved it 🥲 I’ve been putting stuff for free on fb for her and myself and it has worked out great!
A makeup you tuber I watch (Taylor Wynn) often talks about project beauty share. They take gently used makeup and hygiene products and sanitize it, and it goes to women in shelters.
I'm kind of a beginner at sustainability because my family has really never done the best practices for it, but this video was so inspiring! So glad I found your channel. So excited to start making small changes one by one. :)
I just want to say that I’ve had a box set aside for goodwill since we moved into our house (over a year) and then another bag and box from a recent reorganization that I’ve been too lazy to take. I listed everything for free on Nextdoor and it’s great knowing that the people coming to get mostly multiple items will be actually using these things! Or at least more likely than if I just dropped it off somewhere. Especially a pile of nice but no longer fitting clothes that I had are going to a family with a low budget and that just makes me so happy. PLUS I don’t have to go anywhere or talk to anyone in person since it’s just free. So glad you did this video cause it’s also helping me actually get stuff out of my house. I also never do comments but this honestly made me so happy!
I'm so happy you talked about the junk guys! My dad does that and over the years he's been able to take the scrap money and put it towards opening up an "old country store"/electronic repair shop now that he's getting close to retirement. Just one person doing that off and on can remove tons of metal that would have normally gone to the landfill and it gives side income.
Thank you so much for rounding up all of these great resources! I’ve been wanting to declutter, but then I struggle with what to do with the items that aren’t obvious on how to get rid of them properly. You gave me so many great ideas. Upcycling is something I’ve gotten into recently that I think would be great for you to make a video about. I’ve turned old t-shirts into bags to take to the grocery store or hold my recycling until I can take it to the drop off. I also felted an old wool sweater that had gotten a few too many holes to be repaired and turned it into a pair of slippers (similar idea to Bernie Sanders’ mittens). I’m also cutting up other fabric items that had viable material areas and using them to make oven mitts and quilts. Honestly, there’s so much that can be done with clothing and upcycling. Final suggestion from me for now: return any of those “air pockets” you might get in a shipping box to your local UPS store.
If you live in Massachusetts, there's an organization called Catie's Closet that provides students in poverty with new and gently used clothing (among other items, though clothing is the only thing they will take used I believe), so they're a great resource to use as well!
In our counrty we have an organization that collects usable schoolbags and backpacks and give it to the kids in need. There is also a movement "no luxary bag" where we can give our unused purses with 1 beauty item like lipstick, mascara or even soap.
This is an amazing video! I'm inspired to make a similar list for mexico city since I know a lot of options only work on the us but you have inspired me. Thanks for all the hard work you do, it's really apreciated!!
I've used the H&M recycling program before. They offer a 15% off coupon (which I've never used) but I struggle to find a video of their process. They WILL accept clothes in ANY state of wear though. I looove Wands for Wildlife, and the programs where you can donate bags to foster kids... can confirm as a former foster kid, that would be a GODSEND.
Daaaamn Shelbi, how long did this video take you!? I've added this to my bookmarks you had so many great ideas!! Right now, I'm trying to find a program to take my old socks and things like that (I decluttered a lot of them when I did the Less is Now Challenge). Locally I've had a difficult time finding something so I'm hoping the options you listed work for me! Thanks Shelbi 🥰 -Rita
If you have clothing that a teenager might like, either daily wear or items they might need for interviews, check your local high school ESPECIALLY if it's in a low income area. The school I teach at collects prom dresses and tuxes to give to students before dances, they collect daily wear for low income/homeless students, and they collect business attire for students going to interviews. They literally have a closet that students can request access too. (While you're at it, check if they accept food donations. Many schools with these programs also have pantries for students to take food home for the weekend!)
I've been doing this for the past couple weeks. People will pick up FREE items off marketplace all day where I live. Made 1 stop at the animal shelter with old pillows, wide ruled paper my son won't use, and other misc items. Don't forget they are a great place to donate!!
Also, this is so helpful. I've had so much I've been holding on to so I can send them somewhere to be handled properly and been overwhelmed. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much I’ve been looking for some advice for this! There’s so much content out there about decluttering, but no one ever talks about what to DO with it all!
I ”only” decluttered 100 things but was able to sell quite a lot as I set a low price just to get rid of things instead of earning money of it. In my city, we used to have these bins you could donate clothes and shoes to and they would give them to either homeless people or send to other countries where people lived in poverty but they’re gone now, it’s a shame.
A lot of restaurants will take your pens. Some have branded pens but a lot do not. I’ve brought some into multiple places in bulk and they are always so happy. You can even just sneakily leave 1 or 2 with you check if they don’t have branded pens. Also my mom works at USPS and brings her extras there as well and she says they are always looking for pens/permanent markers.
OMG I have been waiting for a video like this- i have been decluttering while also getting into sustainable living and have been wishing for a resource like this video. Thank you SO much for putting it together!
Shelbi you are THE BEST! I tried looking into textile recycling but all I could find was Teracycle and DANG they are CRAZY expensive. So this is such an amazing resource!!! Thank you!
getting ready for a move to a much smaller space, i really appreciate this guide right now! fear of loss and adhd has made the decluttering process really hard for me. i'm trying to give things to friends as much as i can
This an AMAZING resource! Thank you so much for all your hard work! I’m currently decluttering, so this couldn’t have been a better time for me to see this video. Cheers!
First time I ever decluttered my closet today. I wouldn't have considered the FB Marketplace if it weren't for this video. It got picked up instantly! Feeling so much better knowing my old clothes are being reused instead of being thrown away. Thanks Shelby
Shelby- thank you for making me aware of the sustainability of reusing. I've always been a big 'Reuse' person, but watching your vlog has shown me many many ways to get rid of the stuff I no longer need. My home is overwhelmed with the stuff as my husband was an auction hound. We are slowly selling those items - pavers, machinery.... why did he buy 100 banquet chairs?? But thank you for helping me think about other ways to get rid of stuff.
I think of consigning like you think of recycling. I know people who buy more clothing because we have a local boutique consignment place now. They buy whatever and just consign if it doesn’t fit or work right. I send most of my clothes home to the Philippines. We use balikbayan boxes that go on a ship of other people’s boxes back home. (Also, if anyone in the DMV area or Central PA area has non-winter clothes that they would want to donate to my rather large family, lmk! I’m only one size and age range.)
I have gotten rid of two broken TVs, broken microwave, broken vacuum by listing them for free with the defects on Craigslist/Facebook and they have all left my house within 3 days. For extra toiletries and cleaning supplies, I put them in the laundry room. Most things leave. Just keep checking if the things are still there, and what doesn't getting picked up just bring it back. I have had to deal with torn clothes too. i cut them in a way and sold them with other things as scrap fabric to sewists online. I made less than $1 but that is fine as long as I didn't create any waste.
For the most part I don't really bother de-cluttering due to the extra effort involved and I'm not that short on space. Aldo think it can get difficult when I don't have a car, but almost everyone else does so they could pick things up if they are interested. This is good advice I should keep in mind for when I do decide to de-clutter. You have actually inspired me to make some changes in my life to live more environment friendly and maybe I do even more in the future. Great you tube channel overall
If you live in Sweden you can give your stuff to Sellpy. An online secondhand store. They send a bag which u fill up, and handle the listing and selling and disposal of unsold things. No need to talk to anyone (perfect for my social anxiety) and if they sell anything u get a small cut. I also like them because if you bought something from them and didnt like it you can reuse the ad and ship it to the next buyer from your own home. No need to send it back to Sellpy.
This was soooo helpful, Thank you! I made a whole list on my Notion and saved some links to local recycling locations plus the websites you mentioned while I was listening to this video.
Hey! So I run a small thrift store in my town and I don’t throw anything out. If something is damaged or for whatever reason unsellable, it gets repurposed into rags/animal bedding. We also put boxes of clothes that we can’t/haven’t sold out on the front step every couple weeks for free and people almost always come and pick it up. If you can find a small family run thrift store I think it’s definitely okay to donate to them. Unlike Value Village and Salvation Army we really do care about our communities and the environment.
But Nothing is such an incredible organization! My local group has a wonderful dynamic of generosity. Some one was about to come over and pick up some glasses I offered, and she asked me if I needed anything from target while she was out?!? I can’t recommend these communities enough.
SUSTAINABILITY APP RECOMMENDATION For those in the UK (could also check your own country) Olio is an awesome app for giving items away and finding second hand bits yourself. All for free! There's also a food section where 'food waste heros' collect from supermarkets and chain restaurants all the food that is past its 'sell by date' but that is still completely fine and they upload listings to the app for those in their neighbourhood to collect! It's a really great app! The made section is also wonderful for buying zero / low waste and homemade gifts etc, cuts out the shipping etc and they're so unique!
I'm so happy I found this video. I'm in the exact same situation with an old MacBook that won't turn on. I had no idea what to do with it and there's an Apple Store like 5 minutes away from my work. It's insane an environmentally friendly answer was right there.
SO GLAD you made this video! All of the “start the year decluttered” videos I’ve been seeing where people were just trashing or donating things that aren’t useful for thrift stores (i.e. broken items or things worn out beyond resale) were hurting my heart. ♥️ Really appreciate your approach!
i’m trying to educate my self more about these topics and your channel has taught me SO MUCH. i’m starting to be more aware of things i buy because i am ultimately responsible for where they end up and i want to learn more about how i can lessen my footprint on the planet. i’d say currently i am you’re average consumer i hope by the end of this year i would have learned a lot more and significantly lowered my impact on the planet. i wanted to say thank you even though you’re probably not going to see this. you’re doing really important things! thanks for educating me :)
For the icepacks, I work at a hospital/lab and we have to ship out blood which needs to stay frozen or cold, and we continually run out. It would be amazing if people brought there ice packs to the local lab/hospital to donate their ice packs
Thank you! I needed this. I have been desperately wanting to declutter but have boxes sitting around didn't know what to do with things. I remembered from one of your other videos about donations being thrown away and wanted to avoid taking the easy way out and adding to landfills. Every other video says, "declutter this," "get rid of this responsibly," but never address HOW other than to donate it or sell.
Recently decluttered a bit too. I joined a local community "buy nothing" fb group and was able to give away perfectly usable items to others in the community. Also snagged a few things from others as well. Great way to declutter without throwing away!
When I lived in Texas we had a community dump day. And we had lots of junkers or even neighbors pick up items. I help my mom declutter some of her coffee mugs and within 10 minutes they were gone.
Great video! I started decluttering last year by selling a set of items each month. Decluttering responsibility takes a LOT of time and patience. So be kind to yourself and set realistic decluttering goals. Do not try to do everything at one go.
Thank you for this info. There are many vids out there on 'decluttering' but no real detailed advice on exactly how to get rid of all the different types of things we end up with. You have given lots of good suggestions and answered many questions.
Animal shelters also like old blankets! The kitties need lots of bedding :)
some wildlife rescue places do too! it's always worth sending an email to ask 🐣
Good to know! Thank you!!!
@@Liloldliz Yes! Our local wildlife rescue was SO excited to receive a trunkload of towels and blankets.
The nearest charity shop near me is The Samaritans for animals. I donate all my stuff there!🐱
And sometimes zoos will take things like lightly used baby toys and towels and such. Never hurts to ask!
gotta appreciate shelbi for including h&m as an option for clothing recycling in order to be more accessible despite the fact that she hates the company
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the underwear brand Knickey has a recycling program .. you can send them your old undies, bras & socks no matter what brand & they will turn them into insulation for their warehouses. There’s a whole video on their website showing how they do it!!
They also give you a credit for a free new pair of underwear for every donation box you send, it's great!
Their underwear is the best omg
This is exactly what I've been looking for! Thanks for sharing!! 💚
Wow that’s exactly what I was looking for! I had no idea what to do with my old undies and socks! Thank you so much for sharing!!!
@Jill Johansen we have textile recycling bins in our city in Winnipeg
Just a fun fact, I used to work at Best Buy in the computer department, and when people drop off old computers or hard drives, we use a drill to drill a hole though the disk drive it self so that they are unuseable, so all customer info is destroyed :) don't know about other place, but best buy does.
Yeah, our local e-cycling place does similar (tho dad prefers to do it himself before bringing stuff in).
Bleh, I wish being low waste with social anxiety was easier. There's so much "be in a community" "sell stuff locally and people come pick up" "get in a no buy group" "do a swap party" and I'm over here like... pls something where I don't have to talk to people
My MIL is uncomfortable but I don't mind, so I just sell her stuff when I'm selling mine. Try reaching out to friends and family and mention your dilemma.
omg yes this is exactly what I feel!!!! but I hate just dropping off to donation places cause I feel like they don't resell everything and throw a lot away :/
Check out apps like mercari where you can sell stuff you dont need anymore for some extra cash. That app has helped me declutter a lot of stuff that I know is going to go to a good home and be used.
Ahhh. Yes! Lol. Maybe a friend/partner willing to help and do the social things for you?
Tbh buy nothing groups are really low interaction in my experience! Interactions tend to a follow a y/n basis if that makes sense, like "Is this item available still?" "Y/N" and fairly quick and painless ish. Making a post and then ppl reply is a bit more intense, but you can make a big post with a lot of items or just one at at time! whatever feels best for you! I also just leave the items outside, especially with the pandemic and I've never talked to someone from a buy nothing face to face
Carpets: if you think your carpet is too gross to be saved and the only option is to replace it, get a professional carpet cleaner in. These guys are literally magic. Living in a rented place where the carpet has been down for 12 years and had never been professionally cleaned - pets, smokers - one lady let her son keep his muddy bike in the living room. The carpet was so gross, but now it looks like new.
Also apparently cheap carpets are easier to clean bc they're made of plastic, so the dirt doesn't sink in as much.
Cheap plastic carpets crush easier and leave microfibers for littles to inhale from crawling on the floor. I don't not recommend plastic rugs. Loop pile in cotton or sisal are best for the environment. And can be decomposed
For H&M, their recycling program has been working on a recycling process/machine that separates mixed fiber fabrics to reuse the fibers in H&M clothing which not many other places do that with their recycling processes. I used to work there, so I got to research and understand their recycling program from the inside.
My dad is our local “junk man” lol. He doesn’t resell the stuff most of the time but he’s an engineer so he’ll grab anything he thinks he can use for a future project!
My mom is too!
Ha my dad is, too! He fixes up old furniture and sells it.
*This came at the perfect time!*
Just a heads up, childrens hospitals and hospitals in general sometimes accept things like craft supplies, books, toys, games, movies etc. Maybe not right now due to the pandemic, but you can always ask!
I spent alot of my childhood at a childrens hospital and I know they accepted donations all the time, I donated a bunch of my old toys and books to them when I got out of the hospital.
I'm definitely in the stage where I've declutter soooo much but I don't know what to do with it all T.T it can be really overwhelming wanting to downsize and simply you life while at the same time doing your best to not harm the planet in the process. Thank you so much for this video a lot of great tips and resources!
YES! I started my declutter process two months ago, and am still sorting through things. It doesn't help that where I live we just don't have as many resources to declutter sustainably (different country). I'm still sorting through the items that can be sold, fixing small things before passing stuff along, cleaning... it's so much. I hope to be done by the end of the year.
This video couldn’t have come at a more perfect time! I’m moving overseas with my husband and I’m trying to declutter our apartment and clear out my childhood bedroom. I have so much stuff that I need out of my life!
SHELBI this video is your best one yet. Seriously this is one of the most helpful collections of information about recycling and sustainability-I know I always struggle figuring out what to do with electronics, denim that’s ripped in the thigh beyond repair, etc...and having all of these resources together in one video is PERFECT. I just really want to say thank you because finding all of those resources must have taken so much time and effort, but I genuinely think the effect is going to be well worth it. I know I’m going to be utilizing this information ASAP and I’m sure so many others will as well. Nobody out there makes sustainability as accessible as you do, and for that I am just so so so grateful!!!! I honestly never thought I would be capable of reducing my environmental footprint enough for it to matter until I found your channel. Still not sure why you don’t have 10 million subscribers....
ASK TEACHERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY! Elementary/PreK teachers would LOVE art/craft supplies, some clothing items, kitchen items, etc. If you don’t know anyone check the website for the school closest to you and just email the preschool or kinder teachers. They might even take adult items like clothes/household goods for families they have in need.
when i moved, i stopped by the local library and donated books, cds, dvds, my old glasses, and there was a drop off for used batteries. they also accepted donations of tech, magazines, newspapers, cassettes, vhs tapes, hearing aids, and so much more! i love the library
It’s like you knew I was doing a massive declutter and feeling anxious about what to do with everything 😳 Thank you for these tips!
Thank you. I hate declutter videos where the presenter happily throws everything in a trash bag and is “done”...it is so harmful to our planet.
And then say now they have more room to shop for new things (usually clothes)😩
@@vivianthong5656 yes, ugh!
Some of the things that have been thrown away or donated have probably only been worn once for a photo for instagram then it's in a pile of unwanted things!
Sometimes it's that or keeping the clutter tho.
I just migrated here for EXACTLY that reason ugh.
Wow what a brilliant video. Thanks for helping the planet, our animals and needy people. I just gave some glasses to a lady up the road who sends them overseas and medicine, we had so much morphine ect after our father died. A doctor we knew sent them overseas and to my relief the next day they were in a country where people were having limbs amputated with no pain relief! How horrifying! So sad the economic disparity throughout the world. O love my human animal and plant family. I long for the day when the whole wold has enough🙏. Thanks for doing your part of imparting essential info to help this 🥰✌️✌️✨🫶
"A Small Wardrobe" coined the term "unbuying" rather than decluttering to better illustrate this intensive process; similar if not more so than the time and effort put into making an informed purchase.
That’s a great term! I do a declutter every now and then (rarely buy anymore, but had over 20 years of accumulated stuff to get through). The declutter takes a month, then it takes about six months to get it out of the house responsibly and sustainably. Then I start again. I’m in a pretty good spot now. Getting rid of things from the last declutter but am finally in a place where my now-low consumption lifestyle is reflected in a peaceful home. It’s taken a few years to undo so many years of unconscious consumerism and gift receiving.
A lot of clothes, home wares , linens, toys, baby items , car seats, and furniture can be donated to a battered women’s shelter. They are always in need of those things after women and children leave domestic violence with only the clothes on their backs. Call a United Way helpline for charities in your area for furniture for survivors of house fires, domestic violence and the financially marginalized. You can get rid of a lot of stuff fast and the people really need it and appreciate the cups, quesadilla maker, and baby items. Thanks for the video Shelbi!
Another tip for crayons! You can use silicone molds (like for chocolate and baking) to make cute new crayons! I just made dinosaur, cars, and robot shaped crayons which is also doubling as a Valentine’s present for my tot and his friends :)
Love all of these amazing tips!! I work at a pet grooming salon and a wildlife rehab center and we love getting donated towels! We are always happy to get towels to dry dogs and at the rehab center we love towels, pillowcases, sheets and blankets. So helpful!!
This is EXACTLY what I needed! I am new to your channel, but have loved the content as I try to improve my knowledge and practices in living a more sustainable/low-waste/eco-friendly/etc. lifestyle! :) Have a great day!
Yeeeees! Perfect timing! I just bought a house and have been “gifted” so many things that I don’t need. 😩 I’ve got a massive “donation” pile going, but just didn’t know what to do with them! This will definitely help!
I want to add that Lowes actually has light bulb, battery and thin plastic recycling!!!
They do ?! I know florescent bulbs are toxic if broken ...
@@HosCreates I think it's only CFL light bulbs
I wanna plug looking into non-profits in your community. My roommate is a mental health social worker and often they need clothes for people who come in for long-term stays who only have the clothes on their backs. Whenever I can I try to give clothes that I know can't be sold(shoes, socks, sleepwear, etc)
I'm starting a small etsy shop very soon, and all my material I use is second hand, and all my packaging is post consumer recycled paper
I don’t usually comment but I can’t tell you how much I appreciate this video! I HATE the feeling I get when throwing away goods or even taking them to goodwill. I want to make sure things are going to be reused in a new home :)
Thank you for all of these resources, Shelbi!! I have a corner of my basement dedicated to stuff I’ve decluttered and I’m slowly going through the process of getting it out of our house responsibly!
Let’s give this video a Like guys! 😌 Shelbi is 🔥 for informing us of how the world can use all the good that we can do. :-)
arts and craft supplies, puzzles and movies can be donated to psychiatric units too, they make such a difference to the people there.
For clothing recycling: If you have someone who sews in your friend circle/ family, let them sort through your materials! I save old clothing for interfacing, quilting, rag making, patches, etc!
Another option: If the clothes are still in a good state, instead of selling them or bringing them to a secondhand shop, you can always give them to a refugee shelter, if there is one close to your home. You have camps, but you also have houses or centres in cities. There is one close to my home that I wasn't aware of before, so it's interesting to take a look at that. :)
The refugee shelter near me only takes money and buy everything new. The policy is only new things for refugees to give them the best hospitality experience. This is not the case for other clients such as mental health people, womens refuge from violence families. I was pretty surprised to learn about the unofficial dual system. Several places where I volunteered we had a locked "secret room" we take the refugees with all the new stuff and let them pick. The other clients had to go through the 2nd hand store and pick out whatever used stuff they could find, and if no pillows, well, too bad. We were not allowed to grab a pillow from the secret room for them.
Thank you so so so so much for this video! Usually "50 things" type videos make me feel like "do there really have to be 50? I don't have the attention span for that" but the more suggestions for sustainable decluttering, the better! Saving this so I can refer to it over and over again! Eventually I'll start actually getting the stuff I've "decluttered" out of my house...
As someone who doesn't really watch videos that aren't educational, this is probably THE most useful and educational video I have EVER seen. I'm sitting on four sizable boxes of donation right now and after this video, I will be dumping all of it out and putting them into various boxes for a specific donation. I live in a city so I have no reason to think there isn't at least one of each of the specific reuse/recycle places near me. In face, I think I'm going to post this to facebook and see who else would like to declutter [specific thing I'm decluttering] and take/mail it to be reused/recycled. That way two homes get decluttered and I can spread the knowledge.
I won a few medals and trophies when I was burning myself out, and they remind me of that time. I mainly keep them around because of waste, but I’ll check if I can recycle them now!
I am currently working with my parents to eliminate an entire basement full of STUFF that has accumulated for over like 30 years... I will definitely be using these links to try and sort through as I get rid of the stuff. My next mission is making sure NO MORE STUFF is put in that basement.
This was helpful. I have an old charcoal grill that I need to do something with and while watching this I thought of a way I can reuse it!
I'm new to this sustainability world. Just want to say thank you for the time you put into this researching, recording and editing. I've also just started a baby garden. You've helped my anxiety and mental health so thank you so much! Love both your channels. 💗
I live in Korea and I see mattresses being thrown out all the time...it makes me so sad. I wish there was a TH-camr like you living in Korea with all these resources. That would save me a lot of headaches haha
So informative, thank you. I think I will try selling in the neighborhood yard sale this weekend instead of going straight to Goodwill. I’m going to let my family know that I will be regifting, hand making and thrifting for their gifts and also tell them I would like them to do the same for me.
This is perfect! I'm moving soon, and I wasnt sure how to dispose of my unwanted items sustainably. Great timing! ;)
Thank you so much for all these great resources. I’m in the process of decluttering and have looked for the best ways to deal with everything responsibly.
Did you mentioned Patagonia? Worn wear is their program to get discounts if you give them your old Patagonia clothes for future discount and you can also buy second hand items from them too.
Yess love this! I got my mom to watch the minimalist and she loved it 🥲 I’ve been putting stuff for free on fb for her and myself and it has worked out great!
A makeup you tuber I watch (Taylor Wynn) often talks about project beauty share. They take gently used makeup and hygiene products and sanitize it, and it goes to women in shelters.
I'm kind of a beginner at sustainability because my family has really never done the best practices for it, but this video was so inspiring! So glad I found your channel. So excited to start making small changes one by one. :)
I just want to say that I’ve had a box set aside for goodwill since we moved into our house (over a year) and then another bag and box from a recent reorganization that I’ve been too lazy to take. I listed everything for free on Nextdoor and it’s great knowing that the people coming to get mostly multiple items will be actually using these things! Or at least more likely than if I just dropped it off somewhere. Especially a pile of nice but no longer fitting clothes that I had are going to a family with a low budget and that just makes me so happy. PLUS I don’t have to go anywhere or talk to anyone in person since it’s just free. So glad you did this video cause it’s also helping me actually get stuff out of my house. I also never do comments but this honestly made me so happy!
This is the BEST video on the internet thank you SO MUCH
Woah, I didn't know radio shack was still around. But good for them
I hope their shares don't get mass-shorted by hedge funds!
I was surprised too! I looked it up, apparently after they went bankrupt, they sold the rights to their name.
😂
I'm so happy you talked about the junk guys! My dad does that and over the years he's been able to take the scrap money and put it towards opening up an "old country store"/electronic repair shop now that he's getting close to retirement. Just one person doing that off and on can remove tons of metal that would have normally gone to the landfill and it gives side income.
Clicked the notification as soon as it popped up! Trying to clear some areas of the house, so hopefully I can use some of these tips :)
Prefect timeing🙃. Me and my family just started to declutter our home.
Thank you so much for rounding up all of these great resources! I’ve been wanting to declutter, but then I struggle with what to do with the items that aren’t obvious on how to get rid of them properly. You gave me so many great ideas.
Upcycling is something I’ve gotten into recently that I think would be great for you to make a video about. I’ve turned old t-shirts into bags to take to the grocery store or hold my recycling until I can take it to the drop off. I also felted an old wool sweater that had gotten a few too many holes to be repaired and turned it into a pair of slippers (similar idea to Bernie Sanders’ mittens). I’m also cutting up other fabric items that had viable material areas and using them to make oven mitts and quilts. Honestly, there’s so much that can be done with clothing and upcycling.
Final suggestion from me for now: return any of those “air pockets” you might get in a shipping box to your local UPS store.
If you live in Massachusetts, there's an organization called Catie's Closet that provides students in poverty with new and gently used clothing (among other items, though clothing is the only thing they will take used I believe), so they're a great resource to use as well!
In our counrty we have an organization that collects usable schoolbags and backpacks and give it to the kids in need. There is also a movement "no luxary bag" where we can give our unused purses with 1 beauty item like lipstick, mascara or even soap.
Thank you for putting the suitcase part in there ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ that makes my heart so happy that more people will know about it
This is an amazing video! I'm inspired to make a similar list for mexico city since I know a lot of options only work on the us but you have inspired me. Thanks for all the hard work you do, it's really apreciated!!
Hey! I‘m in Mexico City too! I would very much appreciate that. ✨❤️
I've used the H&M recycling program before. They offer a 15% off coupon (which I've never used) but I struggle to find a video of their process. They WILL accept clothes in ANY state of wear though.
I looove Wands for Wildlife, and the programs where you can donate bags to foster kids... can confirm as a former foster kid, that would be a GODSEND.
Daaaamn Shelbi, how long did this video take you!? I've added this to my bookmarks you had so many great ideas!! Right now, I'm trying to find a program to take my old socks and things like that (I decluttered a lot of them when I did the Less is Now Challenge). Locally I've had a difficult time finding something so I'm hoping the options you listed work for me! Thanks Shelbi 🥰 -Rita
It was a lengthy process but it had to be done 🙈 happy I could help!
If you have clothing that a teenager might like, either daily wear or items they might need for interviews, check your local high school ESPECIALLY if it's in a low income area. The school I teach at collects prom dresses and tuxes to give to students before dances, they collect daily wear for low income/homeless students, and they collect business attire for students going to interviews. They literally have a closet that students can request access too. (While you're at it, check if they accept food donations. Many schools with these programs also have pantries for students to take food home for the weekend!)
You're an ANGEL! Thank you for doing all the dirty work for us.
I've been doing this for the past couple weeks. People will pick up FREE items off marketplace all day where I live. Made 1 stop at the animal shelter with old pillows, wide ruled paper my son won't use, and other misc items. Don't forget they are a great place to donate!!
Also, this is so helpful. I've had so much I've been holding on to so I can send them somewhere to be handled properly and been overwhelmed. Thank you so much.
SO many resources !!! Thank you for being so thoughtful with this video, decluttering responsibly is so important !
Girl, you are GLOWING! Thanks for another great video.
Such an amazing video! Thank you for sharing all these sustainable companies.
Thank you so much I’ve been looking for some advice for this! There’s so much content out there about decluttering, but no one ever talks about what to DO with it all!
I ”only” decluttered 100 things but was able to sell quite a lot as I set a low price just to get rid of things instead of earning money of it.
In my city, we used to have these bins you could donate clothes and shoes to and they would give them to either homeless people or send to other countries where people lived in poverty but they’re gone now, it’s a shame.
A lot of restaurants will take your pens. Some have branded pens but a lot do not. I’ve brought some into multiple places in bulk and they are always so happy. You can even just sneakily leave 1 or 2 with you check if they don’t have branded pens. Also my mom works at USPS and brings her extras there as well and she says they are always looking for pens/permanent markers.
OMG I have been waiting for a video like this- i have been decluttering while also getting into sustainable living and have been wishing for a resource like this video. Thank you SO much for putting it together!
Shelbi you are THE BEST! I tried looking into textile recycling but all I could find was Teracycle and DANG they are CRAZY expensive. So this is such an amazing resource!!! Thank you!
getting ready for a move to a much smaller space, i really appreciate this guide right now! fear of loss and adhd has made the decluttering process really hard for me. i'm trying to give things to friends as much as i can
This an AMAZING resource! Thank you so much for all your hard work! I’m currently decluttering, so this couldn’t have been a better time for me to see this video. Cheers!
First time I ever decluttered my closet today. I wouldn't have considered the FB Marketplace if it weren't for this video. It got picked up instantly! Feeling so much better knowing my old clothes are being reused instead of being thrown away. Thanks Shelby
I am not religious but Shelbi you're doing the lord's work!!
Shelby- thank you for making me aware of the sustainability of reusing. I've always been a big 'Reuse' person, but watching your vlog has shown me many many ways to get rid of the stuff I no longer need. My home is overwhelmed with the stuff as my husband was an auction hound. We are slowly selling those items - pavers, machinery.... why did he buy 100 banquet chairs?? But thank you for helping me think about other ways to get rid of stuff.
I think of consigning like you think of recycling. I know people who buy more clothing because we have a local boutique consignment place now. They buy whatever and just consign if it doesn’t fit or work right.
I send most of my clothes home to the Philippines. We use balikbayan boxes that go on a ship of other people’s boxes back home. (Also, if anyone in the DMV area or Central PA area has non-winter clothes that they would want to donate to my rather large family, lmk! I’m only one size and age range.)
Bunz is my favorite😃 I live in Montreal and the community is so active here! I have decluttered so much stuff and avoided throwing it out.
I have gotten rid of two broken TVs, broken microwave, broken vacuum by listing them for free with the defects on Craigslist/Facebook and they have all left my house within 3 days. For extra toiletries and cleaning supplies, I put them in the laundry room. Most things leave. Just keep checking if the things are still there, and what doesn't getting picked up just bring it back. I have had to deal with torn clothes too. i cut them in a way and sold them with other things as scrap fabric to sewists online. I made less than $1 but that is fine as long as I didn't create any waste.
For the most part I don't really bother de-cluttering due to the extra effort involved and I'm not that short on space. Aldo think it can get difficult when I don't have a car, but almost everyone else does so they could pick things up if they are interested. This is good advice I should keep in mind for when I do decide to de-clutter. You have actually inspired me to make some changes in my life to live more environment friendly and maybe I do even more in the future. Great you tube channel overall
I literally got an ad for ForDays this morning and was like I need Shelbi to review this so I know if its good or not!!
If you live in Sweden you can give your stuff to Sellpy. An online secondhand store. They send a bag which u fill up, and handle the listing and selling and disposal of unsold things. No need to talk to anyone (perfect for my social anxiety) and if they sell anything u get a small cut.
I also like them because if you bought something from them and didnt like it you can reuse the ad and ship it to the next buyer from your own home. No need to send it back to Sellpy.
This video came at a perfect time. Just finished up the minimalism game and needed to know all this info. Very helpful, Shelbi👍🏻
This was soooo helpful, Thank you! I made a whole list on my Notion and saved some links to local recycling locations plus the websites you mentioned while I was listening to this video.
Costco also has a station by their optometry area to donate glasses!
Also, thank you so much for compiling all of this information for us.
Hey! So I run a small thrift store in my town and I don’t throw anything out. If something is damaged or for whatever reason unsellable, it gets repurposed into rags/animal bedding. We also put boxes of clothes that we can’t/haven’t sold out on the front step every couple weeks for free and people almost always come and pick it up. If you can find a small family run thrift store I think it’s definitely okay to donate to them. Unlike Value Village and Salvation Army we really do care about our communities and the environment.
But Nothing is such an incredible organization! My local group has a wonderful dynamic of generosity. Some one was about to come over and pick up some glasses I offered, and she asked me if I needed anything from target while she was out?!? I can’t recommend these communities enough.
SUSTAINABILITY APP RECOMMENDATION
For those in the UK (could also check your own country) Olio is an awesome app for giving items away and finding second hand bits yourself. All for free!
There's also a food section where 'food waste heros' collect from supermarkets and chain restaurants all the food that is past its 'sell by date' but that is still completely fine and they upload listings to the app for those in their neighbourhood to collect! It's a really great app!
The made section is also wonderful for buying zero / low waste and homemade gifts etc, cuts out the shipping etc and they're so unique!
olio works in a lot of countries including australia!
I'm so happy I found this video. I'm in the exact same situation with an old MacBook that won't turn on. I had no idea what to do with it and there's an Apple Store like 5 minutes away from my work. It's insane an environmentally friendly answer was right there.
SO GLAD you made this video! All of the “start the year decluttered” videos I’ve been seeing where people were just trashing or donating things that aren’t useful for thrift stores (i.e. broken items or things worn out beyond resale) were hurting my heart. ♥️ Really appreciate your approach!
i’m trying to educate my self more about these topics and your channel has taught me SO MUCH. i’m starting to be more aware of things i buy because i am ultimately responsible for where they end up and i want to learn more about how i can lessen my footprint on the planet. i’d say currently i am you’re average consumer i hope by the end of this year i would have learned a lot more and significantly lowered my impact on the planet. i wanted to say thank you even though you’re probably not going to see this. you’re doing really important things! thanks for educating me :)
For the icepacks, I work at a hospital/lab and we have to ship out blood which needs to stay frozen or cold, and we continually run out. It would be amazing if people brought there ice packs to the local lab/hospital to donate their ice packs
Thank you! I needed this. I have been desperately wanting to declutter but have boxes sitting around didn't know what to do with things. I remembered from one of your other videos about donations being thrown away and wanted to avoid taking the easy way out and adding to landfills. Every other video says, "declutter this," "get rid of this responsibly," but never address HOW other than to donate it or sell.
Recently decluttered a bit too. I joined a local community "buy nothing" fb group and was able to give away perfectly usable items to others in the community. Also snagged a few things from others as well. Great way to declutter without throwing away!
if you have a runners roost near you, they also collect used running shoes for recycling!
When I lived in Texas we had a community dump day. And we had lots of junkers or even neighbors pick up items. I help my mom declutter some of her coffee mugs and within 10 minutes they were gone.
I’m saving this video! One of the biggest blocks to declutter ink for me is that I don’t know how to responsibly get rid of stuff. This really helps!
Great video! I started decluttering last year by selling a set of items each month. Decluttering responsibility takes a LOT of time and patience. So be kind to yourself and set realistic decluttering goals. Do not try to do everything at one go.
Thank you for this info. There are many vids out there on 'decluttering' but no real detailed advice on exactly how to get rid of all the different types of things we end up with. You have given lots of good suggestions and answered many questions.