When was the last time you fixed something that was broken? If your cell phone breaks, do you even think about repairing it? If a sock has a hole in it, you repair it, throw it away, or in my case … turn it into a rag! If a part breaks in your food processor, do you order that part or discard the entire unit? Next time something breaks, stop before you dump it (and add it to our landfills) … consider your options:

  • Repair shop – Yes, repair shops still exist, and it is worth asking how much a repair would cost. My three teens are always trying to justify replacing broken electronics in the name of new technology, but their wallets don’t always allow it! My son’s iPod screen broke and he was able to repair it for $ 50 instead of replacing it with the newer model for $ 200. Sure, he would have liked the newer model, but couldn’t afford it. Live within your means!
  • Super glue – I love super glue! In recent months, I have used super glue to: repair the sole of my son’s running shoes, repair a Christmas ornament, and fix a knob in my bathroom drawer. Super glue is my 30 second fixer! I suggest always having some on hand, and I’m a fan of little single-use super glues, so you never have to worry about it drying out.
  • Replace a part – You can often go online and order an inexpensive replacement part for something like your food processor.
  • Donate it – Years ago, I used to volunteer at the community second-hand sale, and I was always surprised to find that there is a market for broken electronics. Technicians love to fix broken things or just use them as parts! Give your trash a second life!
  • Recycle, recycle, recycle – Many things can be recycled, so check them before throwing them away. Did you know that many stores offer exchange programs?

Let’s “destroy” our throwaway society, and opt for economical and environmentally friendly alternatives!

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