Zero waste spring cleaning

Spring is here, and as midterms ramp up, a cluttered space can add to the stress. A quick reset now can make move-out and finals season way easier—while also cutting down on waste! Instead of tossing everything in the trash, here’s how you can declutter, clean and donate more sustainably while making a positive impact on campus.

Decluttering

Ever find something and think, “Why do I even have this?” You’re not alone!

The easiest way to declutter is to sort your stuff into three categories:

✔ Keep – If it’s useful, meaningful, or sparks joy, it stays.
❌ Get rid of – If you don’t use it or love it, it’s time to let go.
🤔 Maybe – Stuck on an item? Ask yourself if you’d notice if it were gone. If not, it’s probably time to say goodbye!

Cleaning Your Newly Decluttered Space

Now that your space is clear, it’s time to freshen it up—without harming the planet.

Ditch disposable wipes – Use cloths made from cotton, hemp, or bamboo instead of microfiber, which sheds plastic into waterways. You can also stop by the ECenter and grab some off cuts from upcycled T-shirts! While you are around, make a reusable T-Shirt bag!
Choose eco-friendly cleaners – Look for biodegradable, refillable, or non-toxic options. Check out Boulder’s refill stores to cut down on plastic waste!
Watch out for microplastics – Many conventional sponges, cloths, and cleaning products shed tiny plastic fibers. Opt for natural materials when possible.

What to Do with Your "Get Rid Of" Pile

Before tossing items in the trash, check out these easy ways to give them a second life:

Local Online No Buy groups
Host a Stuff Swap with friends
Local Thrift Stores – Shops like ARES Thrift, Greenwood Wildlife Thrift, and Goodwill accept clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Campus Group Organized Swaps – At this year's 32nd Annual Campus Sustainability Summit, there will be a clothing swap for students to participate in on April 22nd! At the end of the semester, keep an eye out for Give & Go Donation Drive and other free exchange events.
Eco-Cycle’s CHaRM Center – Got broken electronics, scrap metal, or hard-to-recycle items? CHaRM makes sure they’re disposed of responsibly.

Pro tip: Before donating, check with friends or roommates—your old lamp or extra kitchenware might be exactly what they need! If you are moving out at the end of this semester, here is essential information and resources to avoid violating Boulder trash ordinances.

The Bigger Impact: Waste Reduction on Campus

Every year, thousands of pounds of reusable items are thrown away during both move-in and at Give and Go during move-out. By donating, swapping, and making sustainable choices, you help keep valuable resources in circulation and reduce landfill waste.

Take It One Step Further

Want to stay involved? Here are a few easy ways to keep the momentum going:

Take the Sustainable Buffs Pledge – Show your commitment to living more sustainably.
Learn more about daily actions with the Sustainable Buffs Guide.
Get an Eco-Visit – Let CU Boulder’s sustainability team help you green your space.

Cleaning up doesn’t have to mean waste—let’s make it a fresh start for both you and the planet. Happy decluttering, Buffs!