As the weather continues to cool down, we are less likely to head out for picnics or fire up the BBQ so let’s review this category and freshen everything up before we pack it away for the winter. Decluttering now also means we will have less to pack and store! We will cover all of your picnic items (including baskets, blankets, cutlery, plates, cups, thermos’ and coolers or eskies) as well as bbq tools and the bbq itself.
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.
Here are some questions you can ponder as you plan your attack:
- How frequently do you use these items and how many of them?
- Do I have a tool that will fulfil more than one function?
- When was the last time I used that item?
What do I do with the keepers?
Things that you use frequently (multiple times) should be stored somewhere that is easily accessible. The items that are used less frequently should be stored up high or low and could be stored in the garage or outside storage shed.
If you leave your BBQ outside as we do year-round, you might like to invest in a weatherproof cover if you don’t already have one.
If items need a bit of a freshen up, now is the time to do it so when you get them out in spring, they are clean and ready to go.
Here is some tips for cleaning your BBQ, including a full recommended yearly clean, from Choice Australia.
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 picnic and bbq items.
- 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 Charity shops such as the Salvos or Vinnies
o Green Shed (Mitchell or Mugga Lane)
o Let’s Recycle Canberra (Hume)
How did you go? Feel free to share your successes, challenges and tips on our Facebook page.
Happy decluttering!
Melissa x