Operation: Closet Cleanout

Spring cleaning starts with washing the baseboards and windows, dry cleaning the curtains and wiping down the blinds…but eventually, it is time to get serious about that closet of yours. Yes, we’re talking about making room for shorts, bathing suits, and tank tops. To get there, we must complete the dreaded task of emptying drawers and arranging hangers. Since all of us have to do this, we might as well make a difference by donating all of our unneeded items to charity!

It’s wise to decide which charity or homeless shelter you will donate your items before digging into the closet. This eases the tough process of whether that sweater you wear once a year or your significant other’s tweedy jacket is a ‘keeper’ or goes into the ‘donate’ pile.

To help get you started, we have compiled a list of local charities in the Shrewsbury area that accept donated items, including some that will arrange for pickup of items at the Commons. (See the list at the end of this post.)

OK, so what’s the best way to make the tough closet calls? Here are a few simple questions to help you decide.

• Ask yourself, “How often do wear I wear this?” and “When was the last time I wore this?” If the answers are “once in a blue moon” and “two years ago?”, the item is perfect for donation. Keep in mind the 2-year rule: Haven’t worn it in 2 years = Get rid of it!
• Ask yourself, “Do I like the way I look in this?”
•  Ask yourself, “Is this item too worn to be useful?” When the answer is yes, be sure to dispose of it. Charities need useable wardrobe items, not rags.

Once these questions are done, it’s time to finish the job. Set up donation pick-ups immediately so that you don’t have second thoughts that send you diving into your neatly organized donation pile the next day.

Once your closet is clear of clutter, it’s time to organize. Start by splurging on hangers.  Your closet will never look neat and organized if you rely on a mishmash of dry cleaner and department store hangers.  Padded hangers or wooden hangers are durable, better for clothing and best for organizing. Be sure to arrange by silhouette, color and most importantly, items (i.e., keep your pants together, skirts together, work shirts together).

Remember: making your closets clean and accessible makes for smoother mornings – and provides an added bonus of helping others. That’s a win-win we all can appreciate!

Shrewsbury area charities:

·         Big Brother Big Sister Foundation – Collects all gently used clothing and small house-ware items.  Call (800) 483-5503 to schedule a pick-up.

·         Andy’s Attic – The local charity is seeking gently used clothing for teenagers.  Email info@andysattic.org to arrange a time for drop-off.

·         Epilepsy Foundation – This organization collects gently used clothing, small furniture and household items.  Call (888) 322-8209 to schedule a pick-up.

·         St. Anne’s Human Services – this thrift shop is located in the basement of St. Anne’s Church on Boston Turnkpike Rd in Shrewsbury.  It is open Wednesday – Saturday.

*Charities expect your donated items to be free of stains, holes, pilling and overall signs of wear.  They also ask that they be clean and ready to be worn by the next person.