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You’ve unpacked (or maybe you’re still digging through boxes). Now’s a great time to start fresh, without buying a bunch of new stuff or throwing away what you don’t need.
Start here: 5 steps after you move
These tips will help you save money, waste less, and settle into your new home with ease.
1. Use what you already have
Before heading to the store, see what you can reuse or repurpose:
- That extra basket? Great for mail or entryway shoes.
- Leftover shelves or bins? Try them in a closet or garage.
- Blankets or sheets? Perfect for makeshift curtains until you find the right ones.
Give it a few weeks, you might discover new ways to use what you already own.
2. Borrow before you buy
Need a drill, ladder, or hedge trimmer, but don't want to buy something you'll only use once in a while? You're in luck! Save money and space by borrowing tools instead of buying them.
Tool libraries across Portland let you borrow tools for free, just like checking out books.
Get more borrow and sharing options
3. Shop secondhand first
Need furniture, lamps, or home decor? Find high-quality items for less by shopping at local thrift stores or online community marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and more. Or look for neighborhood-wide garage sales in the summer.
Browse the Map and Resource Directory to explore local thrift stores, reuse organizations, consignment shops, neighborhood sharing groups, online marketplaces, and other secondhand resources across Portland.
Looking to do some minor (or major) home improvement projects? Find vintage and gently used lighting, hardware, cabinets, wood, and more at nonprofits like ReBuilding Center, Habitat ReStore, and ReClaim It.
Find salvaged home improvement stores
4. Buy thoughtfully
Sometimes buying new is the right choice.
When you do buy:
- Choose durable, long-lasting products.
- Look for items that can be repaired.
- Consider quality over quantity.
- Buy only what you need.
- Support local businesses when possible.
5. Donate or give away what you no longer need
As you unpack and settle in, you may realize some items no longer fit your needs or your space.
Instead of throwing something away:
- Drop it off at a Portland reuse nonprofit.
- Offer it for free through your neighborhood Buy Nothing group or an online marketplace.
- Sell it online or at local consignment stores.
Why it matters
Each time you reuse an item, share with a neighbor, or skip a new purchase, you're helping to conserve energy, protect natural resources, and reduce pollution from manufacturing and shipping [EPA].