Before the chill of winter hits, let’s clear the decks outside and cull the unwanted, unloved (or too loved) and beyond repair outdoor furniture. Sadly our use of the outdoor spaces at home will start declining, so there is no benefit in leaving surplus items out to deteriorate further in the frost. Our approach will almost mirror what we did last week with our indoor furniture.
So how do we decide what stays and what goes?
As always, the criteria you created during Week 1 of our challenge will assist you in making decisions about your items. If you are new to the challenge, you can see our Week 1 post here.
A quick way to start is to look at items which no longer have a function, are damaged beyond repair (or beyond your desire to repair), and just don’t “fit” for you or your family.
If an item has been stored in the garage for 10 years, such as a big stack of chairs that might come in handy if you have a big party, it is time to move them on.
What do I do with the keepers?
Keep them where they will be used, simple as that. There is no point having them if we don’t use them.
If they are exposed to the harsh winter weather conditions, there are a number of relatively economical covers that you can purchase from places like Bunnings, Amart or even The Reject Shop or similar. If your outdoor area isn’t covered, you should definitely consider purchasing ones that are waterproof.
Before covering them up for winter though, take a moment to give them a wipe (or hose) down.
What do I do with the ones that no longer have a purpose for me?
If they are still in good condition but no longer have a purpose in your home, here are some sell/swap and donation options for your outdoor furniture.
If you are thinking you might sell some items online, here is a blog we did some months back with our 5 top tips for online selling.
- Sell or Swap:
o Swap with your friends or family
o Gumtree
o Facebook Marketplace or any of the myriad of Buy/Swap/Sell groups
o Garage Sale
- Donate options:
o Check current requirements on GIVIT enabling you to donate things directly to those in need through a range of registered charities
o Charity shops such as the Salvos or Vinnies
o Green Shed (Mitchell or Mugga Lane)
o Let’s Recycle Canberra (Hume)
If you have large items, charities such as the Salvos or Vinnies offer collections but you will need to book in usually a couple of weeks in advance.
If the items are not suitable for donation, hard plastic and metal components can be recycled. For more information about your options, visit the ACT Government’s Recycling Guide here.
How did you go? Feel free to share your successes, challenges and tips on our Facebook page.
Happy decluttering!
Melissa x