Sell It
Consider organizing a garage sale or posting items on sites like eBay or on social media. Research the item’s value, price it appropriately and take clear photos. However, be aware that scams are common on platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Avoid sharing personal information, limit your correspondence to the platform and meet in a public location. It’s also a good idea to bring a friend along for safety. Use Venmo to avoid counterfeit bills. If unwanted fashions are in excellent shape, consider a consignment shop, such as Designer Consigner in Hockessin (designerconsignerde.com).
Give It Away
Let friends and family know you’re downsizing—or alert neighbors. Buy/Sell Nothing Facebook sites are options for local giveaways. You can also put the item on the curb and announce on neighborhood boards that it’s available.
Donate It
Churches, schools, homeless shelters and thrift stores count on donations. Your choice may depend on the cause. For instance, Great Stuff Savvy Resale in Talleyville (greatstuffresale.com) accepts clothing and home goods to benefit the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. The Giving Cellar in Milton helps victims of domestic violence get on their feet. Before you donate, review the list of acceptable items.
Some charities and third-party services like GreenDrop (gogreendrop.com) and Pickup Please (pickupplease.org) will come to your residence to collect your items. Most Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations (habitat.org) will also pick up certain items. Check the list first to see what’s acceptable.
And remember, if you don’t want a torn, stained or broken item, neither will a charity.
Trade It
Many electronic and tech brands will accept a trade-in for a discount on a new model. Some stores, including Best Buy, have trade-in programs. Always do a factory reset before dropping off or mailing your device.
Reuse or Recycle It
An older tablet might be OK for children’s games, e-books, recipes or the fireplace apps influencers always have flickering on the kitchen counter. Designated Delaware Solid Waste Authority (dwsa.com) drop-off sites accept electronics, hazardous household waste, documents and latex paint.
