Tips For Cleaning Out A Deceased Relative's Home
If you are tasked with the job of cleaning out the home of a relative that has passed away, then you are likely feeling overwhelmed with the amount of stuff they own. It's no secret that Americans buy a lot of material items and have homes stuffed to the gills that require some serious time and effort to clear out. Thankfully, there are some simple things you can do ahead of time to make the cleaning-out process easier, such as each of the following tips.
Invest in a High-Quality Paper Shredder
If your relative was the type of person who saved every bill and bank statement they ever received, then you should buy a high-quality paper shredder before you start clearing things out. As you find pieces of paperwork, take a quick glance at them to make sure they aren't current or necessary. Immediately shred any paperwork that is no longer needed. Any non-financial paper items can be disposed of into a trash dumpster without shredding them to save you time.
Rent a Dumpster that is the Appropriate Size
Before you start clearing out your loved one's house, you should rent a dumpster. If they had a lot of items in their home, then you will likely need a large dumpster. For a smaller household, a smaller dumpster is appropriate. Even if you are donating furniture and other items, you will still need the dumpster to dispose of broken items, old food, and things that are not appropriate for donation or sale. You can talk to a service, like Joe Rocco Rubbish Removal, for more information.
Find a Local Consignment Store and Take Them All the Clothing Items
Since your departed loved one likely had a lot of clothing items in their home, you should find a local consignment shop where you can take them all to. Make arrangements to drop off all of the clothing in one trip and let them send the estate a check for whatever items they purchase.
Find a Local Animal Shelter or Rescue and Donate All of the Household Linens
Finally, you might be surprised to learn that your local animal shelter or rescue would be thrilled to receive a donation of household linens. Shelters use blankets for animals to sleep on, and they use towels in a wide variety of different ways. If your late relative had a lot of these items, then you should arrange with a local shelter to donate them. Collect all of these items at one time and take them and donate them to help the animals.