Spring Cleaning Donation Spots & Organization Tips

Spring is in the air, which means it’s about that time to do a little cleaning around the house. Cleaning your home is not only a great way to freshen up your home, but can help you feel more organized, and have a productive start to a new season. Here are a few tips to help you get your home cleaned up and organized just in time before the beautiful warm weather hits:

Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Home

1. Start with a plan

Before you start cleaning, make a plan of what you want to accomplish. Identify the areas that need the most attention and make a checklist of tasks to complete.

2. Declutter

Spring cleaning is a great time to get rid of things you no longer need or use. Go through your closets, cabinets, and drawers and donate or toss anything that you haven't used in the past year (unless they are of sentimental value or emergency items). We’ve compiled a list of local charities and businesses you can make donations to: (**Going to talk about what gently used items to look for and what are the basic requirements for lightly used items to donate.)

• Assistance League of Boise

Celebrating over 40 years of service in the Boise area, Assistance League of Boise has helped 19,800 people in the Treasure Valley, donated $596,000 dollars to the Treasure Valley, and has had 57.6 thousand volunteer hours thanks to the amazing people within the community. Located at 5825 N Glenwood Street in Garden City, this thrift shop is staffed and managed entirely by member volunteers who will be more than happy to take in lightly used items for donation. Check out the link below to view more details and their business hours.

Link: https://www.assistanceleague.org/boise/thrift-shop/

• Idaho Youth Ranch

Since 1953, the Idaho Youth Ranch has been a beacon of hope for struggling kids and families. Their network of thrift stores throughout the Treasure Valley help fund programs and services for children within the community. Donations of lightly used household items are very much appreciated providing goods that are affordable and accessible to all people within the community.

Link: https://www.iyrthriftstores.org/storedonations

• Goodwill

Goodwill is another great resource to take lightly used items to with 4 different locations throughout the Treasure Valley area. Not to mention, they have an amazing services program when it comes to giving back to the community. In the year 2021, just in the state of Idaho alone, Goodwill’s donations helped 1,080 individuals with disabilities and disadvantages gain work experience and training within surrounding Goodwill stores. Not to mention, 200 individuals received job skill training and career coaching that helped them re-enter the workforce. The Goodwill community would not have been able to achieve these goals without the help of donations. Visit their website below for more details:

Link: https://www.esgw.org/goodwill-stores/

• Thriftology

This charming vintage-style thrift store is located at 555 N Orchard Street is definitely one to visit! Check out their Facebook page below for more information on donations and hours of operation.

Link: https://www.facebook.com/thriftologyboise

• Savers

“Committed to making secondhand second nature,” Savers thrift store located at 10475 Fairview Avenue in Boise, has grown from a single shop to a global reuse champion. Savers truly thrives off helping the community find one-of-a-kind items and helping turn second hand goods into first-rate fashion. Savers is also committed to keeping one-of-a-kind finds out of landfills, to help protect the environment and the community. Check out their website to learn more about Savers and details on donations.

Link: https://www.savers.com/donate

3. Clean one room at a time

Instead of trying to tackle your entire house at once, focus on one room at a time. This will help you stay organized and make the task feel less overwhelming.

4. Use natural cleaning products

Instead of using harsh chemicals, opt for natural cleaning products. Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are all great alternatives that are gentle on the environment and your health. Check out this article for all-natural cleaning recipes.

5. Don't forget the details

While it's important to clean the floors and countertops, don't forget about the details. Dust light fixtures, clean baseboards, and wipe down window sills to make your home feel truly clean.

6. Use organizers/containers

One of the best ways to organize any part of your home is to contain similar items. This also removes the look of cluttered surfaces. You can pick containers/organizers that fit your home’s decor to look more uniform. Good places to start are in your food pantry and bathrooms.

7. Take breaks

Cleaning can be a physically demanding task, so make sure to take breaks as needed. Listen to music, take a walk outside, or enjoy a cup of tea to recharge before getting back to work.

With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to a cleaner, more organized home. Happy cleaning and Happy Spring!