Dear Fellow Freecyclers,

Giving away a washer and dryer is pretty tricky. I remember going through so much effort to get an ancient looking washer and dryer that I found on the curb back to my apartment, without even knowing if they worked. (They did work. Very well, in fact. And they lasted until I could afford a new set.)

Getting a washer and dryer from Freecycle is even better because the mystery is gone. The person offering it can tell you exactly what's up with it. You know what you're putting all this energy and sweat into bringing home.

Now, with that said, here's an important note for when you might be offering a washer and dryer. If the washer leaks and the dryer needs a new heating element, they aren't in "good condition". If the exterior still looks great, make note of it, sure. But a great looking exterior does not mean the machines are in good condition. The washer not leaking water all over the floor and the dryer actually heating up to dry the clothes is what constitutes a good condition. What you might be looking for is the term, "needs work."

As Always,
Me.

Dear Fellow Freecyclers,

OH MY GOD! Do not, for the love of all, do not post an offer for your used lingerie and hosiery!

Ewww!

As Always,
Me

Dear Fellow Freecyclers,

Hi. I have two very helpful suggestions today.

When you're offering books and you say they're old, that's good. When you say they're a little worn, that's a considerate disclosure, too. Don't omit that they're water damaged and moldy. Not only is that very gross but it is a health hazard. Some people are more sensitive to mold than others but you do not mess around with mold and this should not be a surprise during the pick-up. I agree wholeheartedly that it's a shame when old books are going to waste and I wish many of them could be passed on to people who would use them. They can't have mold. It may break your heart to throw them away but that's what needs to be done. You have no idea how mad I am at you.

When you're offering bath/body products, that's awesome. Lots of people love that stuff, the variety they can get, and to get it for free is incredible. That's really generous. It's great that you mentioned some of them were opened and partially used but you might just want to hold on to those. I'm sure someone will take it but... eww!

As Always,
Me.

Dear Fellow Freecyclers,

You know that guy who only offers crap and you don't know it until you open the message or, even worse, go to pick up the item? Oh, you know...

OFFER: Carpet Remnant
... and it's a 2"x7" moon-shaped scrap

OFFER: 5gal bucket
... and it has a hole in it (that's not the one at the top that's supposed to be there).

Actual post:
OFFER: Plastic painting trough
A large plastic painting trough that you use for painting walls. It has a crack in it so it leaks and it needs to be cleaned. Pick up asap. No no shows.

Okay, so, don't be that guy. Sometimes one man's trash is another's treasure but sometimes you've just got trash. Be a big boy and throw it away.

As Always,

Me.