When You Move Out – Try Not to Throw It Out

Moving can be extremely stressful, whether you’re going halfway across the country or just down the street. With the end of the semester drawing closer, many Ohio University students will be moving; some moving home, some moving into an Athens rental, and some moving to a different state to start a new job. Wherever you might be going, try to be mindful of the environment and your community when moving out.

If you’ve ever been in Athens during move-out weekend, you know all too well that there are a ton of dumpsters lining the streets, filled to the brim with furniture and other items that look to be in good condition. If seeing this makes your heart sink like mine, keep reading for some tips on how to avoid this wastefulness. Let’s start with the furniture. So, the couch you’ve had in your rental for the past two years isn’t in horrible condition, but you definitely want a nicer one for your new apartment. Instead of throwing it out, try to sell it! This way not only does it not end up in a landfill, but you end up with some money in your pocket as well. I suggest first reaching out to the tenants that will be moving into your house after you move out. Often these people will buy your used furniture from you, so they don’t have to worry about transporting their own. If this doesn’t work out, try selling it on Facebook Marketplace or one of the Ohio University class Facebook groups. If nobody wants to purchase it from you, reach out to Habitat for Humanity or take it to the Goodwill.

Next let’s talk about food. If you have canned or boxed food items that you don’t want to take with you (and haven’t been opened yet) don’t throw them away! Instead, drop them off at a local food bank or donation center. There’s a spot in Baker University Center called “Cats’ Cupboard” where you can donate food items, or you could go to a food bank such as The Athens County Food Pantry or The Southeast Ohio Foodbank. Donating food items helps people in need, and food pantries are always looking for donations, especially during this difficult time.

If you have any other items that you are looking to get rid of, such as clothes, shoes, decor, or other miscellaneous items, think twice before throwing them out! Usually, there are a few different routes you can take, like selling, donating, or recycling. Choosing one of these other options can give you some extra cash, help out people & families in need, and protect the environment by not adding to our ever-growing landfills.

Written by Shae Haas