How Much Stuff Do You Really Need?

Having a teenage child that is short on cash but wants to donate to Toys For Tots, we came up with an idea.  We are going through the things in her room and donated unwanted toys to the Salvation Army.

Certain items will forever hold memories, and those can be kept.  Most of it, however, can be donated.  We came across unopened items that were duplicate gifts in the same year.  These went to Toys For Tots.  In the process of going through things, we eliminated the clutter from the room at the same time as giving the toys a new life for another child.

It occurred to me that this same process can be used in the remainder of the house.

• Kitchen:  How many small appliances does a family actually need?  If it hasn't been used in over a year, it's time to let it go.
• Living/Family Room:  Pillows and throws, unused video games, VCR tapes - go through it!
• Bedrooms:  Sheet sets (especially ones with children's characters) that are no longer used, toys, books, and any other items that have not been touched in a long time that have no sentimental value.

If you cannot afford to donate these items, you can try to gain a little extra cash for them.  EBay, Amazon, and Craig's List all offer online marketplaces.  It does not take a lot of time to set up accounts, but EBay and Amazon each charge fees.  Craig's List is free, but you can expect many emails and/or phone calls.  Be careful of how much information you give out on Craig's List.