Get rid of old things - without annoying the neighbors

First impressions count - even with old stuff

Whether you want to get rid of books, cups or grandma's old armchair - the first impression makes all the difference. Put things in a neat and attractive place.

Perhaps give the armchair a quick dusting or place the books in such a way that they look like a well-organized display in a second-hand shop. A clean and orderly presentation will ensure that your offer does not look like random bulky waste.

Toilets on the way to the waste disposal site in Bern.

The "free" sign - your best friend

Without the classic "free" sign, nobody will know that you actually want to hand in your stuff. Otherwise it could look as if you've just dumped your entire storage room on the street.

A nice sign like "Free - but only today!" adds charm and sends a signal: There's something to be had here! And if the thing really is broken, a little note like "For hobbyists" helps - better than disappointed faces.

Please don't: The secret bulky waste

Just because you want to get rid of something does not automatically mean that someone else wants it. Broken, dirty or unusable items do not belong on the street, but directly in the garbage can.

Your neighbors will thank you if they don't have to stumble over half-disintegrated chairs or strange-smelling cushions. The rule of thumb: if you don't want to touch it yourself, no one else will either.

Timing is everything - even with cardboard

There are days when nobody wants to be happy about street finds - on a rainy Tuesday, for example. If your things get soaking wet in the next shower, no one will take them with them.

‍It's better to put your treasures out in good weather and at the weekend, when people have more time and happen to be passing by. That way, there's a better chance that one or two nosy neighbors will be happy to see your old floor lamp.

Office chair in front of a university building in Bern.

What to do if nobody wants it?

It happens - sometimes no one really wants your stuff, no matter how much you want it. If that old piece of furniture is still sitting outside the door a few days later, it might just be time to give it up.

Before it permanently adorns the streets, consider donating it or selling it on a second-hand platform. If necessary, you can always dispose of it - but please don't just leave it lying around.

The right way to leave: putting things away again

If no one has taken it after a few days, it's probably time to put it away again. Nobody likes eternal street keepers that look more like bulky waste after a week.

Be considerate and remove anything that has not been taken away. Your neighbors will appreciate it if you don't simply "forget" things.

Concluding wisdom

Putting free stuff on your doorstep can be a wonderful way to get rid of old things - as long as it's done with a little consideration. With these tips, it's guaranteed to work without annoying neighbors.