Fast five: Ways to spruce up your spring clean – Wollongong

Spring has sprung and it’s the perfect time to clean your place in preparation for the festive season. That means sorting things to keep and those that can be moved on (but that doesn’t mean they can’t “spark joy” for somebody else!)

Remember, extending the life of unwanted stuff diverts valuable resources from landfill. It also ensures all the raw materials and energy used to make those items is used to their greatest possible extent. It’s the circular economy in action.

Do a little good with these planet-friendly ways to spring clean your clutter:

1. Donate unwanted books and usable items

Charities and op shops are a great option for clothing, accessories and books that are in good condition. Your donation will help fund their work in the community. Just remember the golden rule of donating, if you wouldn’t give it to a mate, then it’s not fit to donate!

Just be sure to visit during opening hours to ensure your donation counts. Council keeps a list of locations and contact numbers for local op shops and second hand stores here, however details may change without notice.

Got too many books for the bookshelf? Lifeline South Coast are accepting donations for their Big Book Fair coming up next month. Books can be brought to 19 Auburn Street, Wollongong.

2. Plant some new natives

Don’t forget the garden this spring. The weather is perfect for weeding, pruning, and planting. If you’re looking to spruce things up, a few new natives can breathe life into a tired yard.

Wollongong Botanic Garden’s Super Saturday Plant Sale is coming up on 7 October 2023 and there’ll be a smorgasbord of local trees, shrubs, ground covers and grasses, as well as worm farms and compost bins for sale. Our friendly horticulturalists will be on hand to help with expert tips and recommendations. Just bring a photo of the space you’re looking to fill.

3. Host an online or in-person garage sale

There are heaps of ways to sell second hand goods both online and in-person.

Online you can list items for sale on places like Facebook marketplace, and have prospective buyers visit to view and collect, or eBay, where you arrange shipping at the buyer’s cost.

If you prefer to sell it all in one go, why not hold a stall at your local market or host a garage sale? Holding a garage sale is a great way to rehome your unwanted goods, meet the neighbours and make some money.

4. Recycle at the CRC

Our Community Recycling Centre in Kembla Grange is a free and easy place to recycle problem waste from your household. It accepts regular household recyclables like cardboard, paper, steel cans, rigid plastic bottles and containers, and glass bottles and jars. Right next door is the Revolve Centre where you can drop off unwanted items that are in good shape, like homewares, sporting goods, tools, furniture, toys and more.

Those aside, the Wollongong Waste App has an A-Z directory of waste and recycling which covers the how and where to dispose of everything from aerosol cans to window glass.

5. Book a household clean-up

Landfill should always be a last resort but if your unwanted goods have reached the end of their useful life, then it’s time for the tip.

Residents are entitled to two free household clean-ups each year. Mattresses, tyres, metal, and e-waste can all be included but must be placed in separate piles for recycling.See here for full details and to book a collection.

Alternatively, you can bring your stuff to Wollongong Waste and Resource Recovery Park – also known as Whytes Gully – at Kembla Grange. There your load will be weighed, and you will need to pay the relevant fee.