The hardest part of decluttering is getting stuff OUT of the house

[GingerWineIsGood]

Seems a waste not to try to sell some things. Want to avoid landfill. Charity shops near me aren’t taking at the moment (after Christmas and New year].

Somethings need washing first (clothes from the back of the cupboard) before sending to the clothing bank.

Electrical things need to be taken to a recycling point.

As far as charity shop collection is concerned, in my area they are extremely fussy about what furniture or white goods they will take. They have to be pristine and they won't even consider furniture that is a little more shabby but would be good for an upcycler.

Our local shop is great, they take absolutely anything. Tatty furniture is put outside (they have a forecourt) for free or minimal cost, like a fiver.

Even if you could transport one (a mattress), the regular tip wouldn't accept it.

Well, I didn't know that. So if you can't sell it or give it away, is the council the only option for disposal?

I don't know if this is the case for all areas, but in my area libraries have bins for small electrical items & also batteries. Some will take unwanted books in good condition & colouring books, crayons, puzzles etc. But ask first as they may not.

It is also very common to leave unwanted items at the end of your driveway/garden for those passing by to help themselves too

Yes, it's quite expensive to dispose of a mattress, either a few retailers will sometimes take them when purchasing a new one, JL has that option for £29.95 on some, IKEA charges £40, councils are varying amounts, ours takes 5 items for £40 or there are disposal places that collect them for a fee which seems to be the highest price option.

Quite a few stations have book exchanges too - I usually take any books I want rid of with me when travelling & drop them off.