Back to School Closet Clean Out

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A few days ago I shared my article about how to determine your child's clothing needs for the upcoming school year. Part of how we did this at my home was by cleaning out the closets. We sorted out things that no longer fit and items that could be worn again this year. This simple act of decluttering can save you some big money.

Once you've cleaned out the closets, really look at the outgrown items you've collected. Are they still in really good shape? If so, you might think about putting them in a consignment shop, a shop like Once Upon a Child where you can trade them in for store credit, or even selling them on Ebay. Selling the kids outgrown clothes on Ebay is how we help pay for their new school clothes every year. There are plenty of resources to help you learn the ins and outs of Ebay if you've never sold before; Ebay Mommy helped me a lot when I got started. If none of those options appeal to you, consider having a garage sale. Gently used children's clothes sell really well at garage sales this time of year. As for the clothes that are too worn, a bit stained, or just better play clothes than school clothes, consider taking them to the emergency clothing closet. They can surely be put to good use there.

By goignt through your closets, you can easily see what you absolutely need to buy for the year and what you can still use. Big items, like winter coats for example, can often last a child more than one year. This way you are not buying clothing that is unnecessary. Plus, by selling the items that are outgrown, you get a little help with all the back to school expenses.

Sell, Sell, Sell

Image by Transguyjay

I love garage sales. You never know what wonderful treasures you might happen upon. I have been clothing my kids with garage sale finds since before they were born, well you know what I mean. We bought back Tristen's infant gowns, which we had sold in a sale, at a garage sale when we were expecting Ashley...they still had his name written on the tags! We've bought wonderful books, toys, furniture, appliances, knick knacks, and everything else under the sun at yard sales. I love when spring arrives because I know the great sales will be starting up. The whole family enjoys shopping this way. Lynette, her mother, and I can make a morning of sale shopping. I cannot say enough about how much I enjoy scoring great deals at garage sales! I think I may be addicted!

But, having a garage sale is an entirely different animal. We are having one this weekend and I've been preparing for it all week. It's after 11:00pm and we are still pricing, making signs, and go through things to put out. In a way I am really enjoying the purging of clutter from my home. on the other hand, I am one tired mama. We've been blessed with wonderful neighbors who have generously been helping us out. I don't know what we'd do without friends! Anyway, I am hoping that we will be all set come morning. I am also hoping we actually get some sleep tonight.

So, look forward to me sharing my best tips for having a great garage sale in the next couple of days. Right now, I have to get back to my price tags. Ashley's outgrown clothes are calling my name.

Goodnight y'all!