box filled with gently used kids' clothes and stuffed dog

What To Do With Toys And Clothes Your Kids No Longer Use

As your kids outgrow their clothes and toys, you may be wondering what to do with all of the items they no longer use.

If you’re not sure what to do, here are a few options for disposing of or repurposing your kids’ old clothes and toys.

It’s a great way to give back or help someone in need and can also be a fun way to save some extra money.

donation box filled with gently used kids' clothes and stuffed dog nearby

Here are a few suggestions.

1. Self-Storage

If you don’t have the room to keep all of your kids’ old items, consider renting a self-storage unit. This can be an affordable and secure way to store their outgrown clothes and toys for future use or for when they come home for visits.

According to information from keepsafestorage.com.au, self-storage can be a great way to avoid clutter at home and keep your kids’ things secure. It’s also a good way to retain items of sentimental value.

While there may be a cost associated with renting a storage unit, it can provide an easy solution to storing your kids’ items and help keep the house clutter-free.

2. Donate

You can donate your kids’ clothes, toys, and other items to a local charity or organization that helps children in need.

This will not only bring joy to families who are less fortunate, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that the things you no longer need are being put to good use.

There are many organizations out there that accept donations of gently used items like clothes and toys for children.

You can research local options in your area or contact these organizations directly for more information about how you can donate your child’s old stuff. 

3. Sell

If you’re looking to make a little extra cash, then selling items that your kids no longer use is always an option.

You can start small by going to yard sales or posting ads online. Or you can take it up a notch and open an online store or consignment shop.

Whatever you decide, selling the items your kids no longer need is another great way to earn money while helping out other families who may be on a tighter budget.

Just be sure to do a bit of research first so that you know what the current market value for each item is and price accordingly. 

4. Repurpose or upcycle

If you’re feeling creative and crafty, there are so many things that can be done with old toys and clothes your kids no longer use! Take apart and reassemble stuffed animals to create an entirely new creature.

Turn an old baby blanket into a pillow for their bed! Cut out the patches from worn jeans to make quilts or decorations. With a little bit of imagination, you can give your children’s unused items a whole new life! 

5. Recycle

Since toys often contain complex materials and fabrics, they may not be accepted by your local recycling facility. But you can still make an effort to reduce the amount of trash that goes in the garbage bin.

For instance, plastic toys or parts can be recycled at certain locations such as grocery stores, department stores, or even online freecycle services. You might also consider donating broken toys to organizations that run repair centers.

Also, depending on your local area, you may be able to drop off used clothes and shoes at special bins that turn them into insulation or other products.

6. Gift them to friends or family

It’s nice to share the joy of your children’s old toys with loved ones, especially if they can continue to be appreciated and used.

If you have a niece or nephew who will benefit from your child’s used clothing and toys, consider passing them on as gifts—after checking for any recalls, of course!

Not only do you get the satisfaction of knowing that these items are still being loved and utilized in another home, but you also don’t have to worry about finding ways to discard them. This is a great way to give back and keep items from going to waste. 

No one likes to see the things their children no longer use piling up in their homes. But with a few simple ideas, you can easily find ways to store, repurpose, recycle, or even sell these items for extra cash.

So before you start sending your kids’ outgrown clothing and toys to the landfill, consider all of your options and find a way to make the most of these things. Your wallet and the environment will thank you!