As the semester comes to an end, and the treacherous move-out process inches closer and closer, you are probably feeling quite overwhelmed and stressed. I, for one, wake up every morning, look in my overflowing closet and experience a mini panic attack as soon as I remember how I only have a day or two to take every top off its hanger, pull bottoms from my dresser, gather all of my shoes and shove everything into moving bags.
Or perhaps, moving out isn’t even on your radar as you prepare for finals. But if you are beginning to think about packing up for the summer and your overflowing closet continues to overwhelm you, I’ve compiled a list of local places you can donate or sell all those excess pieces. No car or visits to USPS necessary!
Suitcase Clinic
For those with just way too much of everything, and I mean everything, check out the Suitcase Clinic. The Suitcase Clinic is a humanitarian student organization that offers free health and social services to underserved populations. Suitcase Clinic volunteers provide a wide range of services, including hair-cutting, footwashing and wellness activities. They also accept donations of all sorts, such as hygiene products, extra school supplies and food. To support your local Berkeley community, consider dropping off your clothing on Tuesday evenings at First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley, 2407 Dana St., between 6 and 8:30 p.m.
Your friends
Your friends with a similar style are in luck, and they are your greatest and most convenient asset when it comes to cleaning out your closet. I’m sure you have at least one friend who is down bad for that never-worn top of yours you’ve cast away in your closet the entire year. Give your clothes the life they deserve and hand them off to your wonderful friends. If you’re feeling greedy or in dire need of some extra cash, you could also auction your clothing off to your prospective buyers — I mean, friends. Throughout this year, I’ve gotten rid of quite a few pieces of clothing by giving them to friends and allowing them to live a proper life. I most recently donated an old thrifted crewneck, three sizes too large, to a very appreciative friend itching to upcycle and flaunt a new look.
Fellow club members
I know Slack is the last thing you want to use or hear about this summer, but hear me out. Open her just one last time, navigate to your club’s #random channel and post your clothes. For my graduating seniors, consider downsizing your UC Berkeley merch and blessing a little underclassman with the most fire game-day fits. For my scholars of all ages, let bygones be bygones and relinquish your cursed textbooks into the hands of the next generation of great economists, mathematicians and chemists.
Crossroads Trading
If you’re looking to rehome your more upscale pieces, consider bringing them into Crossroads and getting some of your money back. You have two convenient locations to choose from: Downtown Berkeley and Rockridge. Keep in mind that as we move into the summer months, they’ll be prioritizing warmer-weather clothing, such as sundresses, skirts, shorts and short-sleeve shirts. Also, note that other sellers may be in line before you, and you might have to wait a long time before you’re able to get your clothes assessed, so give yourself ample time for this errand.
Whether you plan to donate or sell your clothing, remember that you’re practicing sustainability and setting yourself up for the smoothest move-in when you come back next fall or begin your post-college journey. Good luck with your finals and happy packing!