Have you been putting off cleaning out your attic because it never seems like the “right time”? It’s easy to let this daunting task slip to the bottom of your to-do list, especially with the busyness of everyday life. But believe it or not, you can actually tackle this task in just one weekend! Whether you’re preparing for a move, looking to free up some extra storage space, or simply want to declutter before putting your home on the market, there is no time like the present to take action.
With a few smart strategies, you can efficiently sort through the clutter, decide what to keep, donate, or discard, and even learn how to properly store the items you cherish. These practical tips will not only make the whole process easier but will also ensure you protect your most valuable belongings for years to come. Let’s dive in and get your attic in tip-top shape!
Tip #1: Take the Green Approach
When cleaning out your attic, consider an eco-friendly approach to disposing of old and unused items. Many people might not know how to responsibly dispose of their outdated or broken electronics and electronic accessories such as computers, phones, CDs, and VHS tapes. Many electronics contain components that are harmful to the environment if not handled correctly. So, rather than tossing these items in the trash, there are multiple ways they can be safely recycled! Mail-in recycling services are a convenient option, allowing you to pack up your electronics and ship them off for proper disposal. Additionally, stores such as Best Buy, offer in-store drop-off locations where you can bring your old electronics to be recycled. By taking the green approach, you’re not only clearing out space but also doing your part to protect the environment.
Tip #2: Give Back to a Charitable Cause
After your attic cleanout, you can feel both productive and give back to your community by donating the items you no longer want or need. For any clothing you are parting ways with, consider dropping them off at your local Goodwill Donation Bin or other charities that accept clothing. Additionally, organizations such as the Salvation Army Thrift Stores or Habitat for Humanity ReStores accept any unwanted furniture, kitchenware, and other common household items. If you have a bunch of old books, you can donate them to your local library, schools, or specific charitable organizations such as Better World Books, which promotes literacy worldwide. For any old blankets or towels, some animal shelters will gladly take those off your hands, so you can give back to your community’s furry friends as well. Donating is truly a win-win: it lightens your load while making a positive impact on others.
Tip #3: Make a Quick Buck
One person’s trash can truly be another person’s treasure! Many of the forgotten items cluttering your attic—whether it’s clothes, furniture, electronics, or random knick-knacks—can be sold to others who might find them useful or valuable. In today’s day and age, selling your extra items has never been easier, thanks to a variety of secondhand marketplace websites and apps. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, and OfferUp are free to sign up for and allow you to quickly list your items, set prices, and connect with local buyers. These programs often have specific categories for clothing, furniture, electronics, and more, making it easier for you to connect with buyers who are most likely to purchase your items. If you prefer an in-person method, there are also several brick–and–mortar options for secondhand selling such as Plato’s Closet, local thrift stores, vintage shops, consignment stores, and antique shops.
Not only does decluttering help you earn some money back, but it can also significantly enhance the appeal of your home if you’re looking to sell. A well-organized, clutter-free attic creates a sense of spaciousness, which is a big selling point for potential buyers. In fact, cleaning out your attic and addressing a few other simple home fixes can help increase your property’s overall value. The best part? These changes can be tackled in just one weekend, making them a quick and impactful way to boost your home’s market appeal!
Tip #4: Time to Relocate
At the end of the day, some items just do not belong in an attic due to unique conditions that can cause items to your possessions over time. Attics are typically not temperature-regulated, meaning they are subject to extreme heat in the summer and freezing cold in the winter. These fluctuating temperatures can greatly affect sensitive items like books, artwork, electronics, and even furniture, potentially causing warping, discoloration, or fading. Additionally, attics oftentimes fall victim to bug or rodent infestations. Moisture is another concern; water leaks or high humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and water damage. Therefore, if feasible, consider moving your more precious keepsakes and other items of value to another storage location in your home such as a closet. To make sure you are prepared if disaster strikes, digitize valuable memories through sites such as Southtree. They have packages and services to covert your family photos, VHS tapes, cassette tapes, and more. From there you can upload them right to your computer or to an external storage device to ensure those memories will always remain intact.
Tip #5: Proper Storage is Key
In the end, some items inevitably must go back into the attic for storage, but you can still take steps to protect them from the elements! Consider using clear, airtight, and durable plastic bins to keep out dust, moisture, and pests. By choosing clear containers, you can also see what’s inside without having to open each bin, which will save you time and hassle when you’re searching for something later. For larger items such as suitcases, furniture, or clothing racks that can’t fit in bins, it’s essential to cover them completely to shield them from potential damage. A thick, durable plastic tarp is a great option for this. Tarps help protect against dust, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, keeping your larger items in good condition even if they sit unused for long periods of time. Be sure to secure the tarp tightly around these items to prevent any exposure to the elements or pests.
Let’s Get to Work!
Cleaning out a large space in your home, like the attic, can feel like a daunting task at first, but when tackled step by step, the process becomes much more manageable. Along the way, you’ll find opportunities to reduce waste, help the environment, donate to worthy causes, or even make a little extra spending money by selling items you no longer need. In the end, you’ll have an organized, clutter-free attic where your belongings are safely stored and easy to find.
Not only is there the personal satisfaction of a cleaner space, but clearing out your attic has even more value if you’re planning to sell your home in the future. A clean, well-organized attic makes your home appear more spacious and well-maintained, which can be a huge selling point for potential buyers. It shows that you’ve taken good care of your property and creates a positive first impression that can potentially increase your home’s overall value.
With the peace of mind that comes from knowing your items are protected, and the added benefit of boosting your home’s appeal, you’ll walk away feeling accomplished and ready for your next project. So, what are you waiting for? Time to get to work and start cleaning!