It’s that time of the year again! Kerbside Collection in Mt Gravatt is coming up, on 11 March 2019, so be prepared to let go of large, unwanted household items. However, whilst it’s good to declutter, we have to help reduce landfill too so maybe it’s good to take a second (or third!) look at those items you’ve been meaning to let go and see if maybe it deserves a second chance at life.
Here are things you can do with still usable, unwanted house items that do not involve putting them out to the kerb:
Donate
One of the ways to reduce landfill is to donate household items in usable condition to friends or family, a local charity or other reuse and recycling organisations. Quality donations give dignity to all members of our community.
GIVIT is a national not-for-profit organisation connecting those who have, with those who need, in a private and safe way. How will you know if something is still of good quality? Juliette Wright, GIVIT’s founder said, “If you would give it to your mother, your sister or friend – it’s good to give!!”
Repurpose
Upcycling is the best thing you can do with old stuff just lying around that you cannot bear to throw away because it has sentimental value. It only takes a little of bit creativity to turn junk into treasure.
Sell the item
Household items like old bed frames and bookcases are stuff people don’t bother buying in second-hand. If yours is an antique one then you will likely garner quick cash. You can easily find online furniture marketplace for buying and consigning designer furniture.
Reupholster or refinish
How will you know when furniture deserves to go to hit the kerb? Fabric sofa, for instance, is prone to wear and tear but it can still be reupholstered. You might need a new one if your sofa starts creaking because the structure itself starts to break down and it may be difficult to have it fixed.
If you are definitely going the disposal route, make sure to follow the Council’s guidelines, like keeping piles tidy on the kerb, sticking to the allowed pile size, not leaving sharp or dangerous objects on the footpath, and removing doors from refrigerators and cupboards.
For free reminders before your kerbside collection, download the Council’s free Brisbane Bin and Recycling app and keep push notifications enabled.