Simplify Donations: How a Garage Bin Transformed my Decluttering Routine

Discover how a simple bin in your garage can transform your decluttering! Learn ADHD-friendly tips to simplify your donation process.

What is one thing a lot of people want to do when the new year comes around?

Yep, they want to declutter.

“New year, new me” is the motto for many of us; and sometimes that means getting rid of things in our house to make more space.

But here was my problem: I wanted to declutter but had nowhere to really put those items while they waited to be donated. That created more clutter which drove my ADHD brain crazy.

Thankfully, I found a system that works for my brain- it’s partially out of sight, but I see it every day!

Come see how a simple donation bin in my garage changed the way I declutter, and how it can help you too.

My donation dilemma

Before I bought a storage bin, one corner of our office was dedicated to piling up donation items.

With my ADHD, I can’t focus if there’s clutter around me. But if there’s clutter, I can’t bring myself to take the time and de-clutter everything. It’s a vicious cycle.

My solution: A storage bin

My friend actually introduced this idea to me. She said she keeps a large bin in the garage and tosses all her donation items in there, and when it’s full she takes it all to Goodwill.

Friends, it was like a lightbulb clicked on in my head. That was GENIUS! Here’s why it works for me:

• It’s easy access.
• It’s out of sight, but not forgotten because I see it every time I get in the car.
• It’s a simple system, one I can actually stick with.

How to set up your storage bin

You can do this too!

• Choose the right size bin: You can pick them up cheap right after the holidays! I also chose a clear one so I can easily see what’s inside.
• Select the best location in your home: Will it be right by your garage door? Or does it need to be somewhere you’ll see it often, like by your shoe rack?
• Label the bin: If you have family living with you, labeling the bin as “Donations” can help avoid confusion.

How to make this work for you

The way that I do this may not work for you. ADHD looks different for everyone, and your house may have a different layout.

But here are some general tips to make this system work for you:

• Make it a habit! Use a calendar reminder to check the bin weekly or monthly to make sure it doesn’t overflow.
• Tie it to routines: As part of your decluttering or cleaning sessions, find one or two things to drop into the bin.
• Streamline the process: Maybe keep a list of donation centers and their hours next to the bin. Make every part of this easy for your brain!
• Keep grocery bags in the bin: This helps me remember to package up the smaller items so they’re easier to carry out to the car.

Where to donate your items

You may have many places around you that will accept donations! Here are a few examples:

• Goodwill
• Salvation Army
• Local thrift stores
• Shelters
• Other charities

Some organizations also schedule pickups, where they come straight to your house and pick up your items. Do research on places in your area to check their hours and policies.

How to handle overflow

I’m guilty of filling my bin to the very top, to the point where I have to basically play Jenga to add an item on top without the pile toppling over.

There are two ways you can help with that:

• Use a second temporary bin to store the items. Be careful with this, because this may turn into a permanent storage area that keeps piling up.
• Schedule regular donation trips, whether it’s every 2 weeks or once a month. If it’s on my calendar, I’m more likely to get it done.

This really works!

Honestly, my donation bin has been a game-changer.

Now, I’m not perfect: I don’t always prioritize cleaning or finding items to donate. And I’ve been known to let the bin overflow for a few months.

But just knowing that I have a spot for those un-needed items has helped create a calm space in my brain.

Do you do anything similar? Leave a comment and tell me how you organize your donation items!