Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Don't Be a Hoarder!

Visit aetv.com for more pics like this one.
We all keep some things we don't need, like that stereo that doesn't work anymore, but someone's going to fix, or that extra vaccuum in the closet.  Even extra clothes require space, and who really needs 10 sweaters in the same color?  Saving money isn't just about not spending, it's also about preventing money being spent.  Maybe we aren't as excessive as the Hoarders pictured above, but when's the last time you cleaned out your garage?  I'm planning a yard sale for a few weeks from now, and I've decided to sell all the extras.  Besides, I don't really need that neon pink shower curtain anymore.  So I've compiled a list of things you can check out.  See if you have extras of these, and then think about whether or not you really need them.  If you don't, sell them.  If you don't have time for a yard sale, donate all your extras.  Donations to places like Goodwill are tax deductible, so you may actually end up gaining money!  What we sometimes forget is that space costs money, and the more space you are using to store things, the more money you may be wasting.  You may not need a bigger closet after all, or maybe you'll realize you have a whole extra room you've never really used because it's "storage."  Designate is as your new office and take up a hobbie.  You never know, you may find out something new about yourself.  You may even figure out a new side job you love!
Extras we may be hoarding:
1. Shower Curtains
2. Bath Towels
3. Blankets
4. Pillows (this includes throw pillows and regular pillows)
5. Curtains
6. Tablecloths
7. Kitchen Utensils
8. Appliances
9. Pots and Pans
10. Planters
11. Containers
12. Pot Holders (and oven mitts, too)
13. Candles
14. Candle Holders
15. Sweaters
16. Shoes
17. Socks
18. Tee-shirts
19. Cords and Adapters
20. Arts and Crafts Supplies
So this is not a comprehensive list by any means, but it gives us all a place to start looking.  I know you don't want to end up with a kitchen like the one in the picture!  As I've mentioned, space costs money, and the less space you need, the more money you can save!  So let go of your stuff and embrace the savings - you can use the extra money to travel if you want, you'll certainly know how to pack light!