Here's a challenge for you: Fill 5 bags of clothing from the closets and drawers in your home and donate them to charity. This 5 bag challenge may not sound fun but I promise, if you take it on, you will reap the rewards of downsizing your wardrobe and you'll feel great about doing it.    

Why donate your clothes to charity? 

Help a Good Cause

Your donated attire is transformed into funding for community services through the use of charity-driving thrift stores. Community serving organizations such as Hospice, Hospital Auxiliary and Transition Homes underwrite their mandates by selling clothes individually and wholesale while providing used and affordable good to communities.
Feel Good

You can count on your clothing being appreciated by the receiving thrift clothing store. At the same time you will be rewarded by more closet space, less clutter and a fresh wardrobe. 
Better Fashion
This is your chance to refine your wardrobe into items that are:

#1 Comfortable and flattering

#2 Exactly what you love 

#3 In the best condition 

5 Bag Challenge Tips for Success

1. Ready to Launch: When you begin the 5 bag challenge be sure to search each pocket and wash the clothes in order to make life easier for you and the thrift store. If an item of clothing isn't in good condition then turn it into rags in lieu of passing it over to a charity.
2. Test of Time: If you haven't worn something all year it's not likely you'll wear it next year either. Parting with clothing that has sentimental ties isn't easy but keeping one outfit and donating the next could be the middle ground you're looking for.

3. Don't Stop There: Did you succeed at filling four bags of clothes but now feel the momentum stalling? Just open the linen closet and be ruthless. If you are downsizing for a move then look at this as an opportunity to refresh a comfortable percentage of the linens and towels that are showing tan lines from summers past. 

4. Find the Right Cause: With the clothes prepared for donation the next step is finding a thrift or charity store that is accepting donations. Many people choose to select a charity that aligns with a need close to their heart. Big Brothers, Big Sisters,Canadian Diabetes, St. Vincent de Paul and Hospice are some charitable choices.

5. Get It Out: In some cases charitable clothing stores have trucks that will pick up your 5 bags if you aren't able to drop them off at their location. Call in advance--some take weeks to pick up. 

Most charities that accept clothing donations at the store have designated hours for drop off. Others that have 24 hour clothing bins can be convenient option.  

Good luck with the 5 Bag Challenge! Let us know how it goes.  

If you need more information about downsizing and moving we are happy to help!