How to Handle Hand Me Down’s and Gifts with Care
Isn’t it funny how someone’s generosity can leave us feeling overwhelmed? On our path toward Going Simple, one of the hardest hurdles to jump can be handling new things as they enter our home.
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When we are trying to cut out excess, its easy to become reactive toward anyone trying to continue to add more in to our lives and homes.
I know, because I had to learn this one the hard way. Oye.
It doesn’t have to be that way! Don’t let someone’s generosity cause strife in your relationship. Here are some simple tips I’ve learned over the last few years to start accepting the love from those who give generously.
Hand Me Downs
Don’t miss an opportunity to receive! Our family and friends sometimes show love through gifts. And that’s okay. As a mom to four daughters, hand me downs have become such a blessing.
Not to mention how eco friendly it is to reuse previously loved items!
That being said, it’s important to remember we are in control of the items that come into, and stay, in our home. Adopt this mantra with hand me downs,
“I am the gatekeeper of my home!”
We get a lot of hand me downs. And we are so thankful for them! I like to be conscious of what we store for future use.
Tackle those hand-me-downs in four simple steps!
- Sort by size.
- Recycle worn out items.
- Not your preferred style? Don’t keep it!
- Unwanted leftovers? Check in with the giver.
I like to send this simple text to whoever passed the items to me,
“Thanks so much for the hand me downs! I was able to pull a ton for the kids to use. Did you want the rest back, or should I pass to another mama?
I honor their request and return or pass on the rest!
Did you know you can recycle worn out clothing?
Check with your local donation center or thrift shop. Many are now offering free textile recycling services!
Don’t Sweat Gifted Items
When it comes to gifted items, your first priority should be GRATITUDE!
After that, keep it simple.
Thank the gifter! Their generosity and love for you is what matters most. Can you use the item, then by all means, keep it and enjoy it!
A great way to avoid accumulating clutter through gifted items is opting for a “one in, one out” rule. Receive a new outfit for your baby? Pass a lesser loved outfit on, donate, or recycle it.
If you received a gifted item, and you just can’t seem to find a way to make it work for you in your home, you don’t need to keep it. This was a real freeing concept for me. If the gift won’t serve you, let it go.
These tips have helped keep our home clutter free, and also boosted our gratefulness toward those who bless us. Hopefully they help you too as you journey toward Going Simple in your own home!
xo
Amy
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