So you got a new phone or camera or other electronic goodie from Santa, and you need to
pass the old one on.
Do it now.
Don’t put your old gadget away until it’s outmoded and obsolete. Let someone else get the joy of using it. (Same applies to wardrobe items, you fashionista you! It only gets less desirable in your closet. Even kids’ stuff and home decor items become dated faster than you think. Pass it on now!)
Here’s some ideas:
Pass it on. A friend, neighbor, neighbor’s kid? Relative or co-worker? Try posting a note at work or your community center, or visit freecycle.org if no one comes to mind. My old kayak is now part of the Girl Scouts’ fleet.
Donate it. Of course, the obvious choice is your favorite non-profit charity’s thrift store, where they turn donated goods into support for their cause. But don’t overlook other charities. Would a senior living center or elementary school be able to use your old computer? Verizon offers used phones to domestic violence victims. Got a new recliner? The old one can be turned into cash for your church’s food pantry, turned into job training via Goodwill’s stores, or a bed and warm meals when the Salvation Army sells it.
Resell it. If there’s not a specialty-electronic resale shop in your area, try an online buyer like Gazelle , NextWorth or My Bone Yard. Sell the jeans that have been supplanted by new ones to a buy-outright shop, or consign last year’s favorite toys to make room for the new favorites.
Recycle it. Dispose of items thoughtfully. If you’re unsure how to trash something, call your local government. More than likely, they have a web site or brochure telling you how to do your part to keep the world green and safe.