Is it just junk or can it be recycled?

After cleaning the garage, redoing the basement, and going through the house reducing clutter, a question arises. How to dispose of the discards?

Actually your options are many. Such as:

Eyeglasses: The Lions Club has been recycling eyeglasses for approximately 80 years.

Clothing: Unwanted apparel can be donated to a charity such as Goodwill or sold to a consignment shop.

Blankets, towels, and bedding: These can be donated to your local animal shelter for use as bedding.

Oil: Quick-lube shops such as Jiffy Lube and auto stores such as Pep-Boys will take used oil.

Cans, glass containers, and plastics: Many areas have recycling centers where such materials can be dropped off. Call for specific information as different areas accept different items.

Household toxins: Almost all areas have toxics drop off or Tox-Away days. Check with your local waste management company.

Antiques, dishes, and other general items: Consider a garage sale. Make some money and find your old favorites a new home.

Computers: Some schools and charities accept computers. Check out other options at www.UsedComputer.com.

Cars: Various organizations including Goodwill will accept your car. Some raffle them off for charity. Earth Share through Car Program LLC accepts cars, trucks, trailers, boats, and RV’s.

Books: Your old friends can be donated to a library for their book sale or given to an assisted living facility that might need books for their library.

Aluminum cans and other scrap metals: These are “hot” items and can be sold to scrapyards. A recycle center would be pleased to get them.

Computer printer and copier ink cartridges: Many business supply stores, including Staples, accept them.

Mobile phones, pagers, and PDAs: These can be recycled through Collective Good who will make a donation to your favorite charity. Check at www.collectivegood.com.

For more information on recycling of various products look at web site www.obviously.com/recycle.