How To Move In A Sustainable & Environmentally Friendly Way
Moving is a big undertaking, but it’s also an exciting one. However, while you’re focused on packing and getting ready to go, it’s easy to forget about the waste and trash that will accumulate during the move.
We’re talking about boxes and packing materials, but also the things you want to throw away. This includes old furniture and other similarly bulky items.
Luckily, there’s a way to reduce moving waste and easily throw away what’s left. With these tips, you’ll find it easier to pack and unpack once you arrive at your new place.
Declutter Before You Move
One of the best tips for reducing waste is taking the time to do a declutter before you move. This includes going through your closets, drawers, and other spaces in your current home.
Do this as you pack, so you can easily decide what you no longer need and what you’ll bring with you.
Throw Things as you Pack
Another good tip for reducing waste is throwing away things as you pack. Get boxes or bags you already have at hand and throw your stuff in there. Later, you can sort these items out and see what else you can do with them.
Not only will this help your move go quickly, but it will also save you space once you arrive at your new place.
For example, separate your clothes into two piles – one with the clothes you’ll wear, and the other with the clothes you no longer need. This way, you’ll only pack what you know will serve you later. As a result, you’re saving packing space for something else.
Donate or Recycle
Another thing to consider is donating or recycling as you move. If there are items in your home that aren’t moving with you, make sure they still have a place elsewhere. For example, if you no longer use a bookshelf, perhaps a friend or family member would appreciate a new one.
For other items that you want to discard, many cities offer recycling services for things like old electronics and linens. Check your town’s website to find out where you can recycle during your move.
In addition, look into recycling services from your moving company. Many companies will pick up everything from old furniture and clothes to unusable kitchen appliances and electronics. Since they’ll take it off your hands for free or a small fee, it’s well worth looking into.
Get a Dumpster Rental
Finally, if you have a lot of trash and debris from your move, consider getting a dumpster rental. These are available in many sizes to accommodate any item regardless of the type or size. For example, Central New Jersey dumpster rental is available in 20-yard and 30-yard sizes.
Since they’re delivered to your home, there’s no need to leave the trash on the curb for others to see.
However, if you want others to be aware of what’s being collected during your move, most dumpster rentals are brightly colored, so people passing by will know exactly what it is.
Be Careful with Hazardous Waste
However, be careful when disposing of hazardous waste. While most things can be recycled or donated, others require special handling. For example, you should never put automotive supplies, paint, batteries, and fertilizers in your regular trash because they could harm the environment.
Instead, contact your city to find out where you can safely dispose of electronics and batteries that contain mercury or other hazardous chemicals.
However, your dumpster rental company can also take care of this for you if you tell them you have hazardous waste to dispose of.
Avoid Packaging Waste
Another great tip for reducing waste is to avoid packaging waste. One of the easiest ways to do this is by using things you already have instead of buying new ones.
Check if you have any boxes, strings, and magazines you can use instead of duct tape, bubble wrap, and brand new boxes.
Hoard Boxes
Buying new boxes isn’t necessarily expensive, but what to do with them once you’re done moving? You can donate them to other people if you manage to find someone to take them. If not, they’re likely to end up in the trash.
For this reason, try to hoard boxes several months leading to your move. This means collecting any boxes from package delivery and shoes. You can maybe get some at the local supermarket since they often throw away many boxes.
Using your suitcases and duffel bags is also a good alternative to buying new boxes for your stuff.
Use Old Newspaper
Old newspapers can help wrap delicate items like plates and vases for moving. This way, they won’t get scratched or broken during the move. Plus, it’s better to use old newspapers because the ink is dry, which minimizes the chances of your items getting stained.
Old magazines work equally well, although the greasy paper may be more difficult to work with. You can collect both magazines and newspapers for several weeks before your move. Also, tell other people who read to collect these for you.
Avoid Plastic Tape
If you’re like most people, you probably use plastic tape to seal your boxes. These are convenient because they’re transparent and easily accessible in a pinch.
However, even if they say “recyclable,” these tapes won’t be recycled very often. That’s because recycling centers can’t recycle them due to the adhesive on the back.
Instead of using tape, try with twist ties, paper tape, or string. These are just as helpful for sealing your boxes but are much easier to recycle.
We hope you found this blog post 7 Tips to Reduce Waste & Get Rid of Trash After You Move useful. Be sure to check out our post Green Moving Tips – Eco-Friendly Moving Guide for more great tips!
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