How do you tell in laws not to give you or your hubby their junk?

My hubby has a mild hoarding habit. He’s already got a basement full of useless shit. whenever someone (anyone) offers him more shit (dishes, clothing etc) he feels obligated to take it even if we don’t need it. My in laws are aware of this and continue to offer us and give us their shit - even me. And it’s nothing we absolutely need. Ever. It’s just “stuff” they don’t wanna do away with themselves. Old clothing, old binders, knick knacks.

They [b]know[/b] I am a clutter manager around here. I politely decline and in a round about way remind them that I am working to manage possessions we already have (which again, they already know because they think hubby is “sick” based on his hoarding habits) I don’t wanna seem ungrateful but I don’t want your clutter!

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SW-User

Whenever they bring things or offer to give things, ask them to take something from you..
Start giving back stuff they gave you..

DoubleRings · 51-55, F

@SW-User I should try to offer them something Even if i think they don’t need it, see how they react just for research. Cause other than the knick knacks, which they have organized nicely in their own home, they don’t store anything. It might be interesting to see how they decline my offer.

SW-User

@DoubleRings
Yup.. then you could use that same reason to decline their next offer.. maybe they'll finally take the hint..

Or simply tell them that you won't be accepting anything from them that you don't need or have a use for and that they must stop giving things to your husband.