Unwanted catalogs can be a major annoyance. Not only that, but they also represent a huge waste of paper and resources that will only end up in the trash. Several environmental groups have teemed up to create Catalog Choice, a free online service that allows you to remove your name from catalog mailing lists. In addition, you can also stop catalogs by using the free removal service provided by the Direct Marketing Association.

Visit the Catalog Choice website and click "Get Started."

Create a free account by entering a username, password and your name and mailing address in the spaces provided. Click "Next."

Click "Find Catalogs" and enter the name of the catalog you want to stop receiving in the search box. Click "Search." If the business participates in the Catalog Choice program, it will be displayed. Click on "Set Mail Preferences for this Catalog."

Enter the customer number if you have it available. The customer number is usually displayed on the mailing address of the catalog. If you don't have it or can't find it, do not worry. Click "Submit."

Repeat steps to remove your name from each catalog you receive. The 400 participating businesses have agreed to remove your name from their mailing lists within 12 weeks, so you still may receive a few catalogs while the request is processing.

Visit the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) website. This is another free service that allows you to remove your name from 1,500 catalog mailing lists. It is a good idea to complete the DMA process in addition to Catalog Choice because not all businesses participate in both programs.

Click on "Get Started" and create a free account.

Log in to your email account and activate your account by clicking the link provided. Return to the website and log in with the username and password you created.

Search for each individual catalog and click the name to remove yourself from its mailing list. If you want to remove your name from all the catalog mailing lists in their database, click "Remove My Name" and confirm that you want to be removed from all lists. Businesses in the DMA database have agreed to comply within 30 to 90 days.

Tip

Catalog Choice and the DMA combined cover approximately 1,900 catalogs so they are very comprehensive. However, if you continue to receive a a catalog even though you requested your name be removed, contact the company directly. Inform them that you have asked to have your name removed from their mailing list and ask that they comply with the request.

If you ever want to start receiving a certain catalog again, simply log in to your Catalog Choice or DMA account and search for that particular catalog. Once you find it, you will have the option to add your name back onto their mailing list.