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    4 Steps to a Clutter-Free Home

    By | Work + Money – Wed, Feb 23, 2011 4:21 PM EST

    Didn't think you'd accumulated so much stuff? It happens to all of us, but cleaning out your home is a snap when you consolidate the process into four steps.

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    Step 1: Throw It Out
    It's hard to get rid of things, especially when they're sentimental. But, when a household item has reached its end, it's okay to say good-bye. It can even be a therapeutic process. Make space for new memories by going through one space at a time. Make piles for "Trash," "Keep," and "Give Away." Sometimes you just have to say good-bye to things. Make a pile for Sometimes you just have to say good-bye to things. Make a pile for
























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    Step 2: Recycle or Reuse
    If you're having a hard time deciding whether to throw something away, remember that many items can be reused or recycled. Go throw your piles from the previous step and see if you can repurpose anything. Old clothing could be cut up to make scrub rags, or interesting tin cans could be turned into a flower vase. For recycling, call your local processing center to see which items they accept. Sometimes cell phones, TVs, computer monitors, and other electronics can be salvaged.Many items can be reused or recycled.Many items can be reused or recycled.
























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    Step 3: Make a Profit
    Make spare cash by selling items though eBay or Craigslist, at consignment shops, or in a yard sale or flea market. You'll be surprised that what you're tossing may be just the thing someone else is looking to buy. Make some spare cash by selling your stuff.Make some spare cash by selling your stuff.
























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    Step 4: Donate
    If your child has outgrown his race car comforter or you've redecorated and don't need that slipcover anymore, consider making a donation. While you may no longer have a need for an item, someone else will. Call your local Salvation Army, Goodwill, or another charity. As a bonus, get a receipt for your donation so you can use it as a tax write-off.
    Even though you may not need an item anymore, someone else might. Donate it to a local charity.Even though you may not need an item anymore, someone else might. Donate it to a local charity.

























    Article by Allison Barnes

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