Spring is just around the corner, which means our annual spring cleaning is upon us.  It is always a refreshing feeling to clean up and throw out all the unnecessary garbage that is lying around.  Whether it is a simple de-clutter or a purging of all things no longer in use this two part feature will help you tackle your spring cleaning in an environmentally friendly manner.

Recycle

This seems like a no-brainer, but much of the "trash" that we through out, especially during a deep clean, can be recycled.  Papers and most cardboard boxes can easily be recycled, as well as, plastics, glass, aluminum, and even Styrofoam.  While not all areas recycle all plastics and other materials it is simple to find out where you can recycle these items.  Also check the labeling.  Almost all plastics are labeled with their specific recycling codes of plastics ID codes #1-7.  Depending on your area you may be able to recycle all or only just a few of the types of plastic.

Donate

Ever heard the saying, "What's one man's trash is another man's treasure?"  Well, it is true.  When cleaning out your closet, boxes of unused or unwanted knick-knacks, and appliances that have been replaced donate these unused or old items to charities such as Goodwill, the Salvation Army.  Many unfortunate people rely on the charitable donations of others for basic items such as clothes, as well as furnishings for their home.  Donating to charitable organizations that help the less fortunate is not only a great act for humanity, but also great for the planet.  Similar to recycling, donating reduces the amount of waste that gets thrown out and fills up land fills.

Organization

A simple way to keep your home de-cluttered for extended periods of time is to implement ways to keep it all organized.  Using bookshelves, filing cabinets, and other organizing units helps to keep your belongings organized and easier to put away.  Organization is a simple and easy way to reduce clutter around the home and make your seasonal cleaning less of an undertaking.  Buying organizational furniture doesn't have to be expensive nor does it have to have a negative impact on the environment, there are a number of companies that make eco-friendly furniture for your home and organizational needs.

With these simple ways to de-clutter and purge your home of unwanted and excess items you can reduce your household waste from spring cleaning and make a better impact on the environment rather than producing a lot of waste.  Check in next week for Spring Cleaning (Part 2-Deep Cleaning and Disinfecting).