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[AuntG]

Many great replies, but I'll just answer your original question. No, I don't regret donating nice things. The thought has come to mind that someone might re-sell the like new items, but I really hope they used them for themselves. I'll also add that most the things I've donated have been things that I thought I'd use and then never did (for example, a shop vacuum).

[Q4u]

All this comes leads up to my question: Have you ever donated really nice things and then regretted it?

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I've donated some outstanding items.... especially before we moved across country 4 years ago. I've never regretted any donation and I sell on eBay as well. I've never regretted any donation and have never minded the thought that someone will buy it for resale. I'm actually happy for them, it's okay because everyone has to make money somehow. There's enough "out there" for all of us....

[Mominohio]

On 2/15/2015 happy housewife said:

I do not attach sentimental value to things like clothing or purses, so I easily rid myself of those items that are not useful to me. However, I do not terribly overshop and have a closet full of items with tags still on them as many on this BB say they do. The things I have trouble donating are those items that were once owned by someone I love who has passed like my Mom or Grandma. Some things I can just look at and see them standing in front of their stove with that spoon or utensil in their hand. Those are the things I can't let go of. But clothing that is no longer stylish or doesn't fit well - easily out to the Goodwill.

This is me exactly. I have no attachment to clothing and accessories (and don't own much of either, just not into fashion at all), but 'the other stuff' can kill me. If it was a gift from my son, it is treasured, a gift from my mom, the same thing. If it was passed down, especially if handmade, I can't part with it, even if I don't have a use for it. I have made some progress in taking a real good look at this kind of stuff, and if it is chipped, cracked, torn or worn and of no real value, I tell myself, "I have three really good quilts made by grandma, I don't need to keep three more things that are 'broken'."

It helps me to remember that I do want to keep some special things from the people in my past, I just don't have to keep everything.

[perryp]

I'm in the middle of getting rid of 30 years of stuff to sell our home and its driving me crazy. Thanks to all who wrote their tips & I use it for inspiration.

One truth is if I keep something I spent too much on & do not use, I feel the guilt every time I see it. Getting rid of it is a relief !

[traveler]

I've donated to Salvation Army thrift stores, Senior Center. I'm trying to get rid of collectibles, crafting materials, décor especially Christmas. Ebay hasn't been too successful although I did sell some Joan Rivers jewelry. I wish I could just snap my fingers and the stuff would be gone. But just throwing it away bothers me. We downsized in 2013 and it has been a constant battle.

[OnlyShopsOnline]

I have donated some extremely nice things. I didn't want to take the time and energy to try to sell them. I never regretted getting rid of one thing! It's only stuff. And, you can't put a price on the way you feel once you've gotten rid of the excess.

[Daysdee]

Yes, I have donated a lot. Really haven't regretted anything. I never had any luck with consignment for clothing. Never did get anything. One item I regret a little was a set of Joan Rivers' bee pins that were interchangeable. Put them at consignment and they didn't sell so I donated them. Today I am on a roll cleaning closet. Way too many clothing items. Many are too large for me and not flattering and I wouldn't wear them enough to warrant having them altered. Most Susan Graver and Dialogue are going because they are too long and too big -- mostly jackets and a few with matching pants. My closet (as well as that in guestrooms) are way too cramped. I do hate to part with clothing but realize I have too much, plus some items really are not flattering due to the fit, etc. I need encouragement to do more though.

[HiLo]

I've stopped purchasing so many clothes for myself, being retired,how much do I need anyway?. It is nice to pick up a new blouse or T shirt each season but the rest of the excess I donate to Salvation Army. I remember the days when they were there for me when times weren't good and I was able to find some quality coats for my young children. Won't sell; Makes me feel so good to give something back.

[Daysdee]

I purged my closets more than I have ever done. Just in the mood. So much easier to see what I have and wear items that were ""hidden."" I'm going to make a point of making different combos with what I have and try not to replace a lot since I don't work and don't do much socially. It is a refreshing change.

[homedecor1]

About 4-5 months ago I purged my clothing as I haven't worn many of them in years! That being said, I never took them to Goodwill, etc. because I really wanted to find someone who really could use them (most with tags!). I'm so glad I didn't donate them, I was at the hairdresser today & chatting asked her if she knew of any shelters for women getting back into the workplace (she's lived in the area her whole life). I was surprised that the school has a "2nd hand shop" which they offer clothing for free or very minimal as there are families who can't afford even goodwill. I took the 5 bags over to the high school today -- you'd think it was gold the teachers thanked me profusely. Those who are looking to donate may want to check with a local high school.