Whether you need some extra space or are just tired of looking at piles of unused household items collecting dust, you’ve decided it’s time to get rid of the clutter in your home. While you may be tempted to throw broken or outdated items in the trash, don’t! We’ll show you the green way to dispose of your trash with the help of the experts at The Nest and the EPA.

Computers and electronic equipment

The EPA estimates that there are approximately 2.37 million tons of e-waste filling landfills and growing every day. The electronic equipment clogging up our landfills is only making our environment toxic. Instead of adding to the waste stream, recycle or donate old equipment. If you’re upgrading your computer to a newer model, consider donating your mint-condition computer to charity. Hundreds of schools or non-profit organizations will welcome your working computer and put it to much-needed use. Many manufacturers of computers, televisions, cell phones, and electronics retailers will recycle your items for free or offer a buy-back program. The value of your exchange product may be applied toward the purchase of your new product.

ink cartridge and toner

Recycling used toner and ink cartridges is easy and cost effective. Retailers like Staples offer a cash back rewards program. Simply bring your old cartridges to any Staples store and receive $2 per recycled cartridge to use toward your next Staples purchase.

Clothing

Gently used clothing and accessories can be donated to thrift stores or shelters. Professional clothing, such as suits and dresses, can be donated to Dress for Success, a non-profit organization that provides clothing for low-income women re-entering the workforce. Clothing and shoe donation boxes are popping up in many places, making gifting your clothing as easy as putting it in a bag and dropping it into the box slot. If you’re looking to make some extra cash, consignment stores and eBay are popular places to sell high-end clothing.

Furniture

After watching his favorite HGTV shows, he was inspired to transform his shabby chic living room into a chic and modern retreat. What do you do with the furniture you no longer want? When it comes to your unwanted furniture, you have several options. Before listing them for sale on eBay or Craigslist, consider recycling them. Inspirational websites like Pinterest show you ways to repurpose furniture, like transforming a crib into a bench. If you are not skilled or unable to sell an item, please donate it. Items in good condition can be collected free of charge by The Salvation Army.

Eyeglasses

Your old and outdated prescription glasses are useless sitting in the bottom of your junk drawer. Many charities accept glasses and distribute them to low-income families and third world countries where the poor need glasses. Search online for charities like Lions Club and Unite for Sight for more information.

This is just a small list of the many household items that can be upcycled, upcycled, or donated. Before you throw something away, think about how the item can be put to better use.