6 Resources to Help with a Basement Cleanout

I’ve been helping with a HUGE basement decluttering project — a multi-month effort involving decades of combined household items. Along the way, I discovered several resources that have made the process easier, and helped reduce what ends up in the dump.

1. Google Visual Search: When you’re unsure if an item is valuable or want to learn more about its markings or origin, this tool is invaluable. Just snap a picture and search — you might be surprised! That big, ugly brown jug with the blue flower I almost threw away? Turns out it was worth $150. Sold!

2. Electronics Recycling at Staples: While I knew tech recycling existed, I didn’t realize how extensive Staples’ program is: they take nearly any type of tech (except TVs), plus school supplies. You can find the program here. They do charge for monitors, but you can earn rewards points on many other items. **Pro tip: call ahead to make sure their bins aren’t full before you load up the car.

3. Know Before You Dump: Dumping fees and rules vary. In Cobb County, it’s $14 for under 400 lbs. Get there early (lines get long), and go to the facility designated for your county of residence. Certain items (freon appliances, mattresses, tires, paint, propane) have extra fees. More info here: Waste Disposal | Cobb County Georgia

4. Buy Nothing Acworth (West / Kennesaw) FB

   Group: This local Facebook group is perfect if you’d rather give something away to someone who wants it, rather than toss it. Great for items you’ve also given up selling on Marketplace but don’t want to throw out.

5. Antique and Specialty Resources:

   1. Contact Local Antique Stores & Etsy Sellers: Many antique stores have booths they rent out or connections with resellers who are always looking for unique or vintage pieces. They may offer to take items off your hands or help find a new home for them through their vendor network.

   2. Specialty resources like Replacements, Ltd.: If you’re dealing with old but nice dinnerware or flatware, check out Replacements, Ltd. to research patterns, determine value, or even sell directly to them. Great for those sets your parents no longer want. There are other resources out there like this to leverage.

6. Books and more Books: There are many local resources to consider. While 2nd and Charles is great, local options might be easier and faster: The Crazy Book Lady, Cobb library often takes books, Birch Tree Bookstore and Mostly Mutts Thrift Shop and ‘little libraries’ (there are two located at Swift Cantrell.

What resources have you found helpful in a clean out project to avoid tossing everything in the landfill?