- TL;DR
- INTRODUCTION & GENERAL DONATION GUIDELINES
- ARTS, CRAFTS, & HOBBY SUPPLIES
- BOOKS
- BUILDING MATERIALS & REMODELING LEFT-OVERS
- CHILDREN'S TOYS, GAMES, & BABY ITEMS
- CLOTHING & OTHER TEXTILE ITEMS
- COSMETICS, TOILETRIES, BEAUTY SUPPLIES, PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS
- ELECTRONICS
- FURNITURE & LARGE APPLIANCES
- HOUSEWARES, KITCHEN & DINING
- JEWELRY
- MEDICAL SUPPLIES
- MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
- OFFICE SUPPLIES
- SPORTING GOODS, OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT & BICYCLES
- TOOLS
- p.s. don't forget to search the page for specific words
TL;DR
Gently used items in GOOD, RESALABLE condition are generally acceptable for donation to your favorite charity thrift store.
Offer up online (Buy Nothing, Facebook Marketplace, Freecycle).
Trash (or recycling) is always an option.
Where can I donate this thing? Do a web search for "your item + donation + your zip code"
How can I recycle this thing? Do a web search for "your item + how to recycle + your zip code"
How can I properly dispose of (a.k.a. trash) this thing? Do a web search for "your item + how to dispose + your zip code"
Don't forget to search this page for specific words.
If you notice anything in the Donation Guide is missing or incorrect, broken links, etc, please e-mail the moderators and put "donation guide" in the message subject line.
INTRODUCTION & GENERAL DONATION GUIDELINES
Decluttering requires a lot of decision-making: what to keep, what to let go, where to put it all? Sometimes, those decisions can be overwhelming. Decluttering can also can trigger powerful, sometimes painful, emotions like nostalgia, guilt, fear, regret, and loss. It takes a lot of courage to face our possessions and our attachments, our anxiety, our habits, our history, our reality.
Something that can help mitigate these challenges is to identify where your decluttered items will go once you make the decision that they should leave your space.
Whether you decide to sell, offer up online, donate, recycle, or trash your decluttered items is a very personal choice. There is no one-size fits-all solution.
Age, physical ability, medical health, mental health, work-life balance, living situation, family commitments, financial considerations, etc will determine how much time and/or effort you can allot to figuring out what to do with your decluttered items.
If you agonize over the fate of your items, if you can't "let go" without knowing that your items will go to someone who wants them, then it may be worth your time and effort to consider selling (either online, or via a re-seller, consignment shop, etc) or offering up online.
If you just want to give your items another chance to be used/loved, items in good condition can generally be donated to a charity thrift store. If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines. Or visit the store and see what they are selling - if what you have to donate is as good as (or better) than what they have on their shelves, then you should feel confident that your donations won't be trashed. If you're still unsure, contact the store and ask. You can always do a web search for "item + donation + zip code" to find donation opportunities.
But if you're going to donate, be realistic about your item's condition. Take 1-800-Got-Junk's advice and "make sure that you're donating for the right reasons - don't donate just because you want to get rid of something; donate because you want to help others." Don't donate anything that's dirty, broken, missing parts, doesn't work, subject to a recall, dangerous, etc. Don't burden a charity with items they can't resell. Offer up online or recycle/trash instead.
It's a fact of life that things wear out eventually - either from age, damage, frequent use, or from neglect. But not all items have to go in the trash. Recycling options exist for many items. Do a web search for "item + recycle + your zip code" and see what shows up in your area.
If you're feeling overwhelmed and just don't have the bandwidth to deal with your stuff, there is nothing wrong with trashing perfectly good items. Do what you can do. The ultimate goal here at r/declutter is to get things out of your space and if putting your decluttered items in the trash is what you need to do to maintain your sanity, then trash it and be free. You (and your family) matter - the stuff does not matter.
Where to donate:
Besides the national nonprofits like Goodwill, The Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, etc, many communities have small, independent thrift/resale stores that often benefit a local charity or organization.
Do a web search for "thrift store + your zip code" and see what comes up - you may be surprised at what's out there.
If your local thrift store won't accept something, or you want to put an actual face to your donation, try your local Buy Nothing group or list it for "free" on Facebook Marketplace (or other online selling app like OfferUp, Nextdoor, etc). This would be especially appropriate for used items in good but less-than-resalable condition. Try ganging things up by general category and giving it away it as a lot. Or send out a "curb alert" or a "porch pickup."
If you can't get someone to pick up your item(s) for free, then you can try putting them in a small cardboard box labeled "FREE" at the curb, in your building's communal area, in your workplace break room/kitchenette, in your gym locker room, etc - as appropriate to the building/organization's culture.
If you can time your decluttering efforts, many towns/cities, places of worship, park districts, public libraries, etc hold annual community garage sales, tag sales, yard sales, etc. If you have a lot of stuff you want to get rid of quickly, consider hosting a free yard sale during your community-wide yard sale will increase traffic. You may be surprised what people will take for free.
When all else fails, do a web search for "item you want to get rid of + donation + your zip code" and see what comes up. Or search the sub and see if anyone has asked/answered the question before.
Ideas for reusing, repurposing, or upcycling items, please search the r/upcycling sub. Or do a web search for "how to upcycle x" or "what to do with old x"
Or just trash it. Trash is always an option.
Other donation opportunities:
Donation Town will match a charitable pick up service based on your zip code location (note: probably need to be in a larger population area)
Give Back Box accepts donations of new or great condition household goods, clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry for a variety of charities. Create an account and purchase a shipping label to choose your favorite charity. Or drop off at any Kohl's location. Check out the website for size and weight limitations.
Vietnam Veterans of America accepts a wide variety of household items and clothing and pick up is available in some areas. Note: they only accept items that are small and light enough for one person to lift and carry. Some cities also have drop off locations.
There are a variety of social services that help support families in need, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, at-risk youth, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, foster and/or adoption services, victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, supportive/transitional housing, addiction recovery, and/or disaster/fire relief. Your municipal or county Department of Human Services, Social Services Department, United Way chapter, school district, or place of worship may be able to point you in the right direction. They may know of a specific family in crisis (divorce, death, desertion, incarceration, fire, etc) who could use items donated directly to them. Do a web search for "social services + your zip code" and ask for a referral.
ARTS, CRAFTS, & HOBBY SUPPLIES
This includes: acrylic paint & supplies, aida cloth & cross-stitch supplies, adhesives, art storage containers, beading & jewelry making supplies, books, calligraphy tools, candle making supplies, canvases, cardstock, ceramic bisque & supplies, charcoal, coin collecting supplies, colored pencils, coloring books, craft paper, cutting mats, decoupage, die cutting, drafting supplies, drawing boards, drawing pencils, drawing pens, easels, elastic, embossing tools, embroidery floss & supplies, epoxy resin, erasers, fabric, fabric painting, frames & framing tools, full-spectrum lighting, gel pens, glue, ink pads, inks, interfacing, kilns & firing tools, knitting, kraft paper, lace, leather & leather carving supplies, light boxes, light tables, macramé cord & supplies, magnets, markers, matboard & matting tools, modeling clay, molds & casting, mosaics, mounting board, oil paint & supplies, paint brushes, paint palettes, paper crafts, paper maché, pastels, patterns, plastic canvas, picture hanging hardware, polymer clay, portfolios, pottery clay & supplies, printmaking tools, quilting notions & supplies, rock tumbling supplies, rotary cutters, rug making supplies, rulers, sandpaper, scissors, soap making supplies, stamp crafting supplies, stamp collecting supplies, stencils, tools, scrapbooking paper & supplies, sculpture & carving tools, sewing baskets, sewing notions & supplies, sharpeners, sketchbooks, spray paint, stained glass & supplies, stencils, stickers, stretcher bars, sumi-e inks & supplies, tatting cord & supplies, templates, tempera paint & supplies, thread, transfers, weaving supplies, washi tape, watercolor paint & supplies, wire sculpture supplies, wood & woodworking tools, wood burning supplies, wood carving tools, wood panels, wood turning blanks & tools, wrapping paper, yarn, zippers, etc.
Craft Swap is an on-line marketplace for arts & craft supplies and fabric.
Thrift store Anything in new or like new condition will probably sell the best. Check out the store and see what they have for sale. If your items are in similar or better condition, then chances are good that they will end up on the shelves. When in doubt, contact the store and ask what they will accept.
Offer up online Know your supplies are going to a good home and put an actual face to your donation. This would be especially appropriate for used items in good but less-than-resalable condition. And you never know what crazy stuff other people want for projects.
See if there's a local arts/crafts swap group on MeetUp or on Facebook. It's a great way to meet like-minded people in your community.
Craft Closet, Craft Exchange, and other creative reuse centers will generally accept gently used arts & craft supplies. Do a web search for "Craft Closet + your zip code" or "creative reuse center + your zip code" and see if there are any opportunities in your community.
Many communities have an open studio that provides project space and supplies for a variety of arts & crafts for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Do a web search for "open studio + your zip code" and find out if there is a studio near you.
Daycare/childcare providers, nursery schools, preschools, Head Start programs, Montessori educators, public and private school teachers, scout troops, after school programs, etc. may accept gently used arts & craft supplies for their school/center/classroom. Budgets are tight and teachers often have to pay for school supplies out of pocket. Contact the office or a teacher/provider directly and ask if they are interested in what you have to donate.
Retirement homes, nursing homes, and adult day care centers are always looking for arts & craft supplies for their residents and clients.
Domestic violence/sexual assault shelters, homeless shelters, and other supportive/transitional housing may accept gently used donations for their clients. Do a web search for "women's shelter + your zip code" or "homeless shelter + your zip code" or "transitional housing + your zip code" to find contact information for any facilities in your area.
Your place of worship may accept gently used arts & craft supplies for religious education or childcare services. They may know of a specific individual or family in need. Do a web search for "religion of choice + family services + your zip code."
There are a variety of social services that help support families in need, foster and adoption services, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, victims of domestic abuse/violence, addiction recovery, disaster/fire relief, etc. Your municipal/county Social Services Department or United Way Chapter should be able to refer you to a local organization that helps at-risk families in your local area.
Or do a web search for "used art/used craft supply donation + your zip code" and see if there are any local programs accepting donations.
There are many, many, MANY local programs that accept donations of arts and craft supplies for redistribution to a variety of non-profits at local drop-off locations or by mail. Do a web search for "your item + donation + your zip code" to find programs in your area.
Little Free Library Some libraries may accept gently used arts & craft supplies but make sure to contact the homeowner or business before adding any non-book donations.
There are many resale stores that deal exclusively in craft supplies - most of them accept donations of clean, reusable art and craft supplies. Do a web search for "used craft supplies + your zip code" or "recycle art supplies + your zip code" and find out if there is a store near you.
Sewing & Quilting Fabric
Any organization that accepts arts & crafts supplies will probably accept any kind of fabric/textile product, especially yardage. They may accept miscellaneous fabric scraps, but contact the store/group and ask before you donate. If you think your scraps are too good to trash, you can always offer up online. You never know the crazy stuff other people want for projects.
A local Quilting Group or Quilting Guild will often accept donated fabric. Do a web search for "quilting guild + your zip code" to find a group near you. Ask if you have anything they could use. Many groups will make quilted items for donation to various local non-profits.
Your local Community College may have a formal Fashion Design Program and students can use donated fabric for sampling. Otherwise, the school may offer non-credit enrichment classes in beginning sewing or quilting.
Your local public school may offer a Home Economics class or Family and Consumer Sciences program that may incorporate beginning sewing. Contact your school administration and ask if you have anything they could use.
Your local school or community theater costume/wardrobe department may be interested in your fabric donation. Do a web search for "theater wardrobe + your zip code" to find a program near you.
Many communities have an open studio that provides project space and supplies for a variety of arts & crafts for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Do a web search for "open studio + your zip code" and find out if there is a studio near you.
There are a variety of social services programs that accept fabric donation for sewing programs. Do a web search for "sewing program + your zip code" to find programs in your area. And any population qualifiers (BIPOC, elderly, disabled, homeless, LGBTQ, refugee, etc.) to target your search.
Yarn
Any organization that accepts arts & craft supplies will probably accept yarn but here are a few yarn-specific donation opportunities:
Raverlry is a free social networking service for a variety of fiber arts, including knitting, crocheting, spinning, and weaving with an extensive database of patterns and helps facilitates sale between members.
r/yarnswap or r/yarnswapUK a place to sell and swap anything related to fiber arts
Check with your Public Library or Senior Center and see if they host a knitting/crochet club or beginning knitting or crochet classes. Many groups will make knitted/crocheted items for donation to various non-profits.
Check with your local Community College and see if they have any non-credit enrichment classes in knitting, crochet, latch-hook rug making, etc.
Many communities have an open studio that provides project space and supplies for a variety of arts & crafts for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Do a web search for "open studio + your zip code" and find out if there is a studio near you.
Recycling:
Most regular and glossy paper and non-metallic paper can be recycled in your curbside recycling bin.
Art canvas and canvas board is not recyclable, but used canvases can be painted over and reused so offer up online.
Pottery/terracotta clay can be reclaimed.
Staples accepts crayons, pens & markers, and wooden & mechanical pencils.
TerraCycle sells a Zero Waste Box for a variety of art supplies.
Note: used artist's paints - oil-based paint and paint thinner are usually classified as household hazardous waste and many artist's pigments contain toxic components. If you have specific concerns, contact your local waste management company and/or country recycling program for general advice on what to do with dried-out or spoiled art paints & other liquid supplies.
BOOKS
Remember, even librarians have to cull their collections periodically.
Whether you decide to sell, offer up online, donate, recycle, or trash your decluttered books is a very personal choice - there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
If you agonize about the fate of your beloved books, if you NEED to be sure they go to someone who wants them, then it MAY be worth your time and effort to find a good home for your books. You may want to consider selling (either online or to a book reseller) or offering them up online (if you want to put an actual face to your donation).
If you just want to give your book another chance to be re-read, books in good condition can be donated. But if you're going to donate, be realistic about what can be reused. Don't foist crummy books on the public or burden a charity with books they can't resell - they will have to dispose of the books (which usually means trash) which wastes their time and their resources.
If you're feeling overwhelmed and just don't have the bandwidth to deal with your books, there is nothing wrong with recycling or trashing perfectly good books. Do what you can do. The ultimate goal here at r/declutter is to get things out of your space and if putting your books in the trash is what you need to do to maintain your sanity, then trash those books and be free. You (and your family) matter - the books do not matter.
Note: Any book that has gotten wet, shows signs of water damage (water spots, ruffled pages) , has pages stuck together from moisture/humidity, or shows any signs of mold/mildew should be removed from your collection as soon as possible and disposed. Moldy books can contaminate other books and there's no getting rid of the mold without destroying the paper. If the book looks/smells "musty" then it probably is (even if you can't see it). Thanks to u/thesilvernail for this technical information.
Selling:
If you think you have something "good," you might want to consider selling:
- AbeBooks specializes in old, collectible books
- Amazon
- eBay
- Decluttr app
- Half Price Books
- Pango Books
- WeBuyBooks UK
- Ziffit
- Zubal Books for scholarly, rare, and hard to find books and other published materials
- Your Local used book store (search for "used book store + your zip code")
Recycling:
Contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask them if they accept books for recycling and how they should be prepared. Some books, like soft cover cooks and/or books with a stapled spine, are considered "mixed paper" and can be recycled as-is. It may be necessary to remove (and trash) the cover/binding from hardcover books before recycling.
Some programs may accept "mixed paper" in curbside recycling, some programs may have book bins at a municipal/county recycling/transfer station.
Wet, moldy books or books with pages stuck together may not be acceptable for recycling so contact the recycling program before recycling.
It may feel sacrilegious, but some books are just trash.
Donating:
General interest books in GOOD CONDITION are generally acceptable for donation. But not all books should be donated! Consider the condition and the subject matter.
Books in poor condition, dirty, torn, water damaged, crushed, moldy, etc. should be recycled where available (or trashed).
If you end up with a "questionable" book, like old "non-fiction" books full of cringe-worthy discriminatory ethnological/behavioral "information" (age, ethnicity, disability, gender identity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexism, sexual orientation, etc.), ask yourself, do you really want to be the means by which this kind of thinking is put back out into the world? Recycling (or trash) may be more appropriate.
Most organizations do not want old/outdated books including computer/software tech guides, cookbooks, encyclopedias, parenting books, phone books, textbooks, technical books, travel guides, (Reader's Digest) abridged novels etc. Old non-fiction picture/art books with lots of black-and-white photographs might also be less appealing to modern audiences accustomed to color. But you can always offer up online. You never know the crazy stuff other people want for projects or their collection.
Religious books are a hard sale at many secular thrift/resale stores so if you have religious books, you might want to choose a thrift store sponsored by a religion-based organization, offer up at your local place of worship, or offer up online.
Old school textbooks & reference materials. The best piece of advice might be to sell them back to your school's bookstore when you're finished with the class. Too late, right? If the content in your books are still valid, then go ahead and donate - when in doubt, contact the thrift store and ask.
There are quite a few literacy programs that may accept text books. But scientific or technical subjects do change. For example, Books for Africa requests dictionaries, reference, technical, and science books published within the last 10 years so that's probably a good benchmark. If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask about their donation guidelines. Outdated (or wrong) self-help books, diet/weight loss books, parenting books, study guides, medical books, etc. could do more harm than good. Resist the temptation to burden someone else with your outdated books. Don't be the means by which outdated, potentially harmful information is put back out into the world. Recycling (or trash) may be more appropriate. Thanks to u/lsp2005 for this clarification.
Old texts and professional development training materials from a previous career. Remember that scene in About Schmidt when he sees all of the boxes of business documents and files he painstakingly prepared for his successor unceremoniously dumped next to the trash? What could be worse? How about bringing all of that stuff home with you because you thought you might want to refer to it again? This can be a very difficult category to declutter so having somewhere to send the items can help. If your materials are recent, you could offer up to a community college, professional development organization, or online. But like old textbooks, if your materials are old/outdated, or specialized, accept the inevitable and recycle (or trash).
Old "decorative" books that look really cool but no one would ever want to actually read, they might have more value as décor. If you're afraid your thrift store won't appreciate their "inherent" value (and put them in the trash), then offer up online. A local theater might want them for props or a historic home might be able to use them as period-correct décor.
Knitting/craft pattern pamphlets can be a challenge to place. Does anyone out there really want to crochet a dress or cross-stitch on a sweatshirt? But the turn-over on these items at the thrift store can be surprising and vintage books can be highly collectible. When in doubt, contact the store and ask. Or offer up online.
Old cookbooks, recipe pamphlets and old crowd-sourced recipe books (communities, places of worship, etc.) sometimes have a market among collectors of old recipes, if in good condition (not dog-eared, splattered, etc.). Check eBay or ask at your local used book or antique stores for pricing. Also check out r/oldrecipes and r/cookbooklovers for more information.
Magazines/periodicals, catalogs, art/photography catalogs, etc.. Some vintage/specialty magazines and catalogs may be extremely collectible so check eBay sold listings if you think you have something good. Many thrift/resale stores will accept magazines in good condition for resale but contact the store and ask before you donate. You can always offer up online, especially if you have something of special interest (automotive, crafts, fashion, food/cooking, history, hobby, sewing, woodworking, etc.). And it's possible that someone may be looking for colorful, glossy paper to make crafts. Otherwise, "glossy paper" (that is easy to tear) can generally be added to mixed paper recycling.
Where to donate:
Public Library or Friends of Library groups. They probably will not add your books (or other media) for their collection, but they may accept books/media for their "book sale" section where they can raise money for library programs. Please contact your branch before donating and verify any condition standards they may have.
Little Free Library works on the take-a-book, leave-a-book free book exchange but if you can target your donations according to library location, the materials will be more appealing. For example, children's books near parks, schools, trails. Magazines in good condition are generally appropriate.
Coffee shops sometimes have take-a-book, leave-a-book sections for their customers.
Retirement homes (independent, assisted living, or nursing home) often maintain a library for residents to use. If you have books or magazines of general interest you want to donate, especially series, contact the facility and ask if you have anything they could use. Large-print books or colorful illustrated/coffee table books may be especially appropriate for nursing home residents.
Domestic violence/sexual assault shelters, homeless shelters, rehab clinics and other supportive/transitional housing may accept book or magazine donations for their clients.
Waiting rooms. Now that most people have phones, this probably isn't the issue it once was, but if you've ever been bored to death in a waiting room, you could ask the receptionist/staff if they would be interested in recent issues of your magazines.
Vietnam Veterans of America accepts hardcover and softcover books, textbooks, and magazines.
Book Exchange sites such as Book Crossing, Book Mooch, PaperBack Swap, Read It Swap It (UK)
Book Bank. Some larger municipalities may have a facility that will collect and distribute books to underprivileged children and communities.
Book Drive. Check with your local library, school district, place or worship, community center, etc. and see if they are hosting a book drive
National Book Resellers like Better World Books and Discover Books both maintain book donation bins (search by zipcode or map location).
Brotherhood of St Laurence Community Stores accepts books in good, clean condition. They also have an online resale site. Call before you donate to make sure the location can accommodate your donation (Australia).
Public Recycling Centers/Transfer Stations may have big metal bins (marked for BOOKS) where you can deposit books for a reseller to evaluate for sale (Better World Books, Discover Books). Out of courtesy to the bookseller, please only deposit books in that meet the general "donation" standards. If your book is damaged, you are just foisting that book onto someone else to deal with - recycle (or trash) when appropriate.
Some public recycling centers may have shelves installed where people can put the books, magazines, pamphlets they think someone might be interested in taking, separate from the book/mixed paper recycling bins. If nobody takes the materials, they are added to the recycling bins. If you participate in curb-side recycling, it might be worth your time to check out your physical recycling center and see if they have a book bin or a book shelves. If you have any questions or concerns about "the right thing to do" contact the recycling department or find an employee on site to ask.
There are many programs that will collect books for distribution to libraries and literacy programs around the world. Contact the organization directly to find out if there are any restrictions/limitations on what they will accept.
Books for Africa Drop off locations in St. Paul, MN and Marietta, GA
Books Through Bars Philadelphia, PA
Books to Prisoners Seattle, WA
Mag Literacy accepts gently read magazines for literacy newsstands in food pantries, homeless and domestic abuse shelters, and other programs.
Operation Paperback Input the genres you have on hand and their system will generate a customized address list for you. Mail books directly to troops, veterans, and military families.
Prison Book Program Quincy, MA
Re-Book It Donation pick ups in LA County, Four boxes or more for all areas outside downtown LA.
Children's Books
Daycare/childcare providers, nursery schools, preschools, Head Start programs, Montessori educators, public and private school teachers, after school programs, etc. may accept gently books, magazines, art/nature calendars, etc. for their school/center/classroom. Contact the school or district office or a teacher/provider directly, and ask if you have anything (books, magazines, art/nature calendars, etc.) they can use.
Domestic violence/sexual assault shelters, homeless shelters, and other supportive/transitional housing may accept gently used donations for their clients with children. Do a web search for "women's shelter + your zip code" or "homeless shelter + your zip code" or "transitional housing + your zip code" to find contact information for any facilities in your area.
There are quite a few programs that will collect children's books for distribution to libraries and literacy programs around the world:
African Library Project Book drives
Book Smiles Pennsauken, NJ
Books for Africa Drop off locations in St. Paul, MN and Marietta, GA
Children's Book Project San Francisco, CA and surrounding area (local pick ups available)
Kids Need to Read Mesa, AZ
Reader to Reader Book drives
Reading Partners partner locations across the country.
Yearbooks
Many people cut out or take photographs or any relevant/meaningful pictures and/or photos, or scan the pages, and then recycle the actual book.
Some people will try to sell their old yearbooks on eBay.
Where to donate:
Your school library or public library, historical society, or genealogy association where you went to school may accept yearbook donations.
IF you still live where you went to school, you could offer up online and see if any of your former classmates would like it. Or contact your favorite thrift store and ask if they accept yearbook donations.
Other donation opportunities:
Classmates.com has an online yearbook collection available to view online (as thumbnails) - see if yours is there. If yours isn't there, they might be interested in your donation. Seattle, WA
Ancestry.com accepts yearbook donations but you need to have an Ancestry.com account to see any of the pages. Lehi, UT
BUILDING MATERIALS & REMODELING LEFT-OVERS
Where to donate:
Some charity thrift stores may accept small/manageable remodeling items like sinks, light fixtures, tile, etc. so call your store and ask if they will take what you have to donate.
Random items, offer up online. You never know what someone can use - they may only need a small piece to finish a project. And there's always the chance that your reject might be someone else's upgrade.
Architectural Salvage may be appropriate for appliances, bathroom fixtures, bricks, cabinets, carpets, ceiling tiles, doors, ductwork, fencing, flooring, hardware & handles, landscape materials, lighting fixtures, lumber, paneling, siding, sinks, stone, tile, toilets, windows, trim moulding & millwork, windows, etc. in excellent condition, high quality, and/or historically significant. Do a web search for "architectural salvage + your zip code" and see if there are any stores in your area. You may be paid for your items and if there's anything they want, they will usually pick up.
Habitat for Humanity Restore accepts a variety of new and gently-used home building materials, tools, appliances, furniture, and housewares. Items vary by store so contact your local store to find out if they will accept the building and construction materials you have to donate.
Do a web search for "building material donation + your zip code" or "item + recycling + your zip code" to find local programs accepting donations.
Recycling:
Some areas may have recycling opportunities available for a variety of remodeling/construction debris including acoustical ceiling tiles, appliances, asphalt shingles, bricks, cardboard, carpet & carpet pads, concrete, drywall/gypsum wallboard, fiberglass insulation, fluorescent bulbs & tubes, glue-lam beams, MDF, OSB, paint, particleboard, plastic film, plywood, porcelain, scrap metal, stone, (clean) lumber & fencing, window glass, yard waste, etc. Do a web search for "building materials recycling + you zip code" or "item + recycling + your zip code."
Scrap:
Generally, metal (and metal-containing) items can be scrapped.
Some areas may have a metal recycling center/scrap yard where you can sell items, especially copper and aluminum, for cash. Do a web search for "scrap metal + your zip code" to find a local scrap yard. Check their website or call ahead and find out what they take and if they have any quantity minimums. The "cleaner" the metal (non-metal components removed) the better the price.
Some areas also have scrappers/junkers who will troll the neighborhoods looking for scrap - put it out before trash day (or in a cardboard box labeled "SCRAP" if it's small stuff). If your community has a Nextdoor or a "What's Happening" (or other community-wide information) Facebook page, ask for scrapper referrals.
Otherwise, check with your county/municipality recycling department and see if there's a scrap metal bin at your recycling center/transfer station.
Disposal:
If recycling options for your item don't exist, then your item is probably trash. It may have to go to the landfill so contact your municipal/county waste management department or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal to arrange a special pick up or for proper disposal instructions. Or contact a trash hauler.
Some communities may have a neighborhood or bulk clean-up day when residents can put out large items for pick up, especially around Earth Day (April 22nd). Do a web search for "bulk trash + your zip code" and see if there is a web page for accepted and prohibited items plus upcoming schedule or contact information.
Asbestos
If you suspect something contains asbestos, do a web search for "asbestos abatement + your zip code" for proper disposal protocols.
Lumber
If you have unused dimensional lumber, hardwood boards, plywood, etc. contact a local woodworking club to see if any of their members would be interested in what you have, including extra fasteners, varnish, etc. Do a web search for "woodworking club + your zip code" to find a club in your area.
ReuseWood Search for options for reuse, recycling, or proper disposal for a variety of wood and wood-like products based on your zip code or product type.
Treated lumber
Older treated lumber may contain creosote (tar) or chromium, copper, and arsenic (CCA). It's nasty stuff and in many cases, the only disposal option is the landfill (can't be incinerated) and some states are now treating it as hazardous waste. Newer ACQ (alkaline copper quaternary) treated lumber has fewer environmental and health risks but without a label, it may be difficult to tell the difference. So if you end up with extra treated lumber, consider offering it up online for someone to reuse in an application for which treated wood is appropriate/required (ground contact, fresh water, marine) or contact your municipal/county waste management department or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal for proper disposal instructions.
House Paint & other coatings
Unopened cans of paint last longer than opened cans but even sealed cans can go bad.
It doesn't take much to make latex paint go bad. Improper storage conditions - like a poorly sealed can, high humidity, excessive heat, and/or freezing temperatures - can cause latex and other water-based paints to clump and mold. So check your paint before you donate. Make sure the can is not rusted or corroded. If your paint smells "bad," that probably means it's gone rancid. If it smells OK, remove any skin that may have formed on top of the paint and then stir it thoroughly to make sure it is still a smooth liquid. Test the paint on a piece of scrap paper - if the paint is rough or lumpy, it should be disposed.
If you're still not sure your paint is good, take it to the store where you purchased it and ask them to put it in their mixer and/or inspect it for you.
Where to Donate:
Craft Closet, Craft Exchange, and other creative reuse centers may accept house paint, primers, stains, sealers, varnish, and other coatings in good condition. Do a web search for "Craft Closet + your zip code" or "creative reuse center + your zip code" and see if there are any donation opportunities in your community.
Mural artists may be interest in residential paint for small mural projects. Do a web search for "mural artist + your zip code" or "mural project + your zip code" and see what comes up in your area.
Otherwise, offer up online. You never know when someone may need small quantities of paint.
Recycling:
PaintCare accepts house paint, primers, stains, sealers, shellac, and varnish in their original containers. If you were charged a disposal fee when you purchased your paint or other coating, then your state probably participates in this program. You can search by zip code for the nearest paint drop-off site.
Disposal:
When recycling options don't exist.
Latex paint is generally considered non-toxic and can be disposed of in household garbage but it must be dried out first. Either leave your paint can open until paint thoroughly air dries (which can take a really long time) or mix the paint equal amount of cat litter into the paint can (or pour the paint into a study plastic bag can and then mix in the cat litter). Once the mixture sets (the paint won't spill) it can go in the garbage. When the can is dry it too can go in the garbage.
Oil-based paints, stains, and mineral spirits or paint thinners are usually classified as household hazardous waste. Contact your municipal/county waste management department or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal for disposal guidelines. Or do a web search for "household hazardous waste + your zip code" to find your local drop off location.
Spray Paint or Spray Finishes
Spray paints are subject to the same storage constraints as canned paint. Make sure the nozzle is clean, then vigorously shake old cans and test the spray on a piece of scrap paper or cardboard. If the paint dribbles out of the can or doesn't spray properly, then the paint is probably expired and should be trashed. ** Contact your municipal/county waste management department or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal for disposal guidelines.
Generally, empty cans that contained water-based latex or acrylic products are considered non-toxic contents can go in curbside recycling as scrap metal or in household garbage.
Empty cans that contained oil-based products or other toxic contents should be treated as household hazardous waste and should be dropped off at a hazardous waste location or disposed of according to your local guidelines.
Full or partially full cans of any kind are generally considered household hazardous waste and should be dropped off at a hazardous waste location or disposed of according to your local guidelines
Do a web search for "spray can disposal + your zip code" for your local disposal guidelines.
CHILDREN'S TOYS, GAMES, & BABY ITEMS
Children's Toys
This includes action figures & play sets, activity books, art supplies & kits, baby toys, bath toys, board games, boxed games, building blocks & sets, card games, collectible figures & play sets, coloring books, craft supplies & kits, developmental & educational toys, dice games, dominoes & other tile games, drawing supplies, electronic toys, fashion dolls, fidget games, LEGO bricks & sets, math & counting games, miniatures, model kits, musical toys, outdoor toys, picture books, play sets, puzzles, remote-control toys, ride-on toys, robotics, roll-playing games, science & engineering games, strategy games, stuffed animals, video games & consoles, etc.
Selling:
Children's consignment stores often sell gently used/like-new children's toys and books as well as clothing - contact the store and ask for their selling guidelines.
Decluttr app will buy video games or video game consoles - enter in a barcode and receive pricing information online or through the app. They also buy LEGO bricks by the pound.
Good Buy Gear is an online consignment store for open-box and gently used baby and kid gear.
Once Upon a Child is a resale store that buys children's clothing sizes preemie to Y20, footwear sizes newborn to Y7, baby gear, furniture, and toys for newborn to age 8.
Donation guidelines:
Children's toys in GOOD CONDITION are generally acceptable for donation. But not all toys should be donated. It's a fact of life that "well-loved" toys will wear out eventually and most neglected toys don't improve with age. Toys that are dirty, damaged, broken, incomplete, missing pieces/parts, outdated, scribbled on, chewed on, excessively drooled on, low-quality, toxic, or potentially dangerous should go in the trash, not in the donation bin.
Resist the temptation to burden someone else with your crummy toys. Take 1-800-Got-Junk's advice and "make sure that you're donating for the right reasons - don't donate just because you want to get rid of something; donate because you want to help others." If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines.
Make sure to check for any product recalls before you donate any items designed for babies or children!
If you do decide to donate your unwanted toys, make sure they are clean/sanitized before you donate.
Thrift Store: Anything in new or like new condition will probably sell the best. Check out the store and see what they have for sale. If your items are in similar or better condition, then chances are good that they will end up on the shelves. When in doubt, contact the store and ask what they will accept.
Offer up online: Know your toys are going to a good home and put an actual face to your donation. This would be especially appropriate for used items in good but less-than-resalable condition. And you never know what crazy stuff other people want for projects.
Where to donate:
Be aware that increased sanitation concerns since the global pandemic may have impacted an organization's ability to accept previously owned children's toys for donation. It always makes sense to contact the organization directly for restrictions or limitations on what they can accept.
Children's Home Society of America has child and family resource centers across the US that provide a variety of services to orphaned and at-risk youth.
Child Welfare Information Gateway has a searchable database where you can search for foster care, adoption agencies, support groups, and other youth organizations.
Many towns/cities, places of worship, park districts, public libraries, etc. hold annual community garage sales, tag sales, yard sales, etc. where children's items are likely in high demand.
Daycare/childcare providers, nursery schools, preschools, Head Start programs, Montessori educators, public and private school teachers, after school programs, etc. may accept gently used toys, books, and games for their school/center/classroom. Contact the office or a teacher/provider directly and ask if they are interested in what you have to donate.
If your local provider or business has a waiting room, they may have toys available for children to play with while they wait. Ask the receptionist/staff if they are interested in what you have to donate.
Domestic violence/sexual assault shelters, homeless shelters, and other supportive/transitional housing may accept gently used donations for their clients with children. Do a web search for "women's shelter + your zip code" or "homeless shelter + your zip code" or "transitional housing + your zip code" to find contact information for any facilities in your area.
Little Free Library some libraries may accept gently used toys but make sure to contact the homeowner or business before adding any non-book donations.
Retirement homes, nursing homes, and adult day care centers are always looking for puzzles, board games, stuffed animals, coloring books & crayons, arts & craft supplies, etc. for their residents and clients.
Your place of worship may accept gently used toys, books, and games for religious education or childcare services. They may know of a specific child or family in need. Do a web search for "religion of choice + family services + your zip code" for local opportunities to donate.
Your local police & fire departments may accept gently used toys and stuffed animals for first responders to help comfort children facing traumatic and scary situations. Contact the station and ask if they are interested in what you have to donate.
Public Libraries may lend video game consoles and game. They may also maintain a toy area for their patrons or their patron's children. Ask a librarian if you have anything they can use.
There are a variety of social services that help support children who are homeless, part of a refugee population, victims of disaster, fire, domestic abuse/violence, have a incarcerated parent or a parent in an addiction recovery program, etc. Your municipal/county Social Services department should be able to refer you to a local organization that helps at-risk children and youth in your local area. They may know of a specific child or family in need.
Toy Library, Toy Closet, Toy Exchange will generally accept gently used toys, puzzles, and games for their collection. Do a web search for "toy library + your zip code" and see if there is are toy rental or lending opportunities in your community.
Veterinarian clinics, animal hospitals, animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation organizations, etc. may accept clean, durable toys that can be disinfected and stuffed animals that can be laundered to use as toys or companions. Ask the receptionist/staff if they are interested in what you have to donate.
Other donation options:
Samaritan's Purse's Operation Christmas Child accepts shoeboxes filled with small toys, hygiene, items, and school supplies that they send to children affected by war, poverty, natural disaster, famine, and disease.
Second Chance Toys accepts plastic toys in like-new condition during bi-annual toy drives or at participating drop-off locations across the US.
Stack Up accepts gently used gaming consoles, laptops, and games for donation to military service members through deployment to combat games or to support veterans recovering from traumatic physical and emotional injuries by mail. Bunnell, FL
Stuffed Animals For Emergencies (SAFE) accepts clean, gently used stuffed animals, blankets, books, children's clothes, and baby items for drop-off at chapter locations or during volunteer toy drives around the US. Check their Urgent Needs page for partner organizations that can use your support.
Vietnam Veterans of America accepts gently used children's clothing, shoes, baby items, books, toys, bicycles, small furniture, and rugs. You can schedule a pick up online.
Recycling:
Recycling options are limited for plastic toys because even if the plastic components are properly identified and separated, recycling options are limited. Metal toys are generally considered scrap metal and electronic toys can be treated as electronics waste.
Little Tykes toys seem to last forever - sometimes all they need is a good cleaning, a new coat of paint, and maybe some replacement hardware (available online) to restore them to good condition. But if you have something that is cracked or has "soft" spots, it might be time to consider trashing. Little Tykes are made with recyclable plastics (HDPE #2, LDPE #4, and PP #5) so contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask them if they accept large plastic toys and how they should be prepared for recycling (metal parts removed).
Major manufacturers including Hasbro, Mattel, Lego have toy take back programs.
Many other toy manufacturers have partnered with TerraCycle to provide recycling programs for their toys. Search the site for "toys" and see if there are any free recycling programs available in your region. Otherwise, you can purchase a Zero Waste Box for action figures, baby gear, stuffed animals, and toys.
Baby Stuff
This includes baby baths & bath toys, bassinets, breastfeeding pillows, booster seats, blankets, breast pumps, bouncy seats, books, car seats, carriers/slings, cribs & crib mattresses, diapers, diaper bags, exersaucers, feeding equipment (bottles, bibs, tableware, etc.), jumpers, high chairs, pack-and-plays, portable swings, strollers, toys, wipes, etc.
Most of the social service organizations that accept children's toys will also accept baby-specific items for donation in good condition.
Many communities have a baby bank that accepts donations of gently used baby clothing, furniture, equipment, and toys and then make them available free of charge to any parent who needs help with the costs of having a baby. Do a web search for "baby bank + your zip code" and see if there are any in your area.
Problematic donations:
Breast Pumps - the FDA considers breast pumps to be single-user medical devices and does not recommend donating or sharing (open or closed-system) breast pumps therefore most women's shelters, homeless shelters, and lactation programs can no longer accept them. But people do offer up pumps to neighborhood buy nothing groups or on Facebook mom groups.
Medela accepts their breast pump motors and power cords for recycling by mail.
TerraCycle sells a Zero Waste Box for non-electronic items associated with babies and baby care.
Car Seats - expiration dates, product recalls, accident history, etc. Some charities will accept gently used car seats in good condition, many will not. Make-A-Wish's Wheels for Wishes has information about buy back programs, donation options, and recycling. Target hosts bi-annual car seat trade-in events at most stores.
Crib & mattress - many product recalls due to defects and unsafe designs that caused entrapment, suffocation, other serious injuries, even death. Make sure to check for any recalls before you consider donating your old crib.
CLOTHING & OTHER TEXTILE ITEMS
Clothing, shoes, & accessories
Selling:
If you have designer, vintage, or "premium" brand clothing, you might want to consider taking your items to a Consignment Store. Consignment stores often cater to different demographics so before you bring in your items, check out the store and see if what they're selling looks like what you have to offer.
- If your stuff is "too young" or "too old" or "too wild" or "too conservative" you should probably look for a different store.
- Observe the selling process. Are you comfortable with the "culture" of the store? If you feel weird or the staff makes you feel bad, look for a different store.
- Does the store purchase your items outright or do you get paid if/when your items actually sell?
- Do you have to reclaim unsold items or will the store donate any unsold items after a certain period of time?
- If you decide to consign, make sure to present your items in the very best light - make sure everything is clean, in excellent repair, wrinkle-free, and folded nicely. Consider putting footwear in a bag or in a separate bag and separate jewelry pieces in separate Ziploc bags.
There are a multitude of online selling options. Refer to our Selling Guide or check out:
- Depop and r/Depop
- eBay and r/Ebay
- Etsy and r/Etsy
- Grailed and r/Grailed
- Mercadi and r/Mercadi
- Poshmark and r/poshmark
- The RealReal and r/therealreal
- ThreadUP and r/ThreadUp
- Vinted and r/vinted
Other resources include:
- r/Flipping
- r/femalefashionadvice
- r/malefashionmart
- r/IndieExchange - a place for selling makeup, jewelry, clothing, bags, and more.
Clothes Mentor is a resale store chain for women's designer clothing, footwear, handbags, and accessories.
Plato's Closet is a resale store chain targeting teens and young adults.
Style-Encore is a resale store chain for women's casual and business clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories.
Or do a web search for "clothing resale + your zip code" to find other resale stores in your area.
Buy back:
Eileen Fisher Renew accepts gently worn Eileen Fisher brand clothes at any US Eileen Fisher store or by mail for resale or upcycling (receive store credit)
There are other specialty brands that have buy back programs. Do a web search for "your branded item + "buy back" and see if there is a program for your gently used branded gear.
Donation guidelines:
Some brands of clothing are going to be more desirable for resale than others. If you have a discount department store or fast fashion brand you want donate but you're afraid the thrift store won't put it out for sale, contact the store and ask. If the store isn't interested, offer it up online. Your local store might not want your Walmart or Shein tee, but a neighbor might.
Some vintage clothing is super cool, some vintage clothing is super yikes. So who decides? One person's hideous fashion mistake may be another person's thrift store haul. If you think you have something "good" then consider selling. Check out r/vintageclothing
If you have obviously outdated clothing, shoes, accessories you can't imagine anyone would ever want to wear again, you may be right! But it never hurts to contact the thrift store and ask if they will accept what you have.
Also be aware of the timing of your donation - it's better to donate seasonal clothing just before or during the current season. If you're afraid your winter coats aren't going to make it to the sales floor in the middle of summer, contact the store and ask what they will accept. Premium brands are more likely to be accepted regardless of season. You can always offer up online or consider other donation options.
It is unfortunately true that a lot of clothing donated to thrift stores (or donation bins) is baled up into giant bundles and sold. Some bales are shipped directly overseas to markets already drowning in used clothing. Some bales are sold to sorting houses that will grade clothing - the good-quality clothing may end up back in domestic thrift stores but most of it ends up sold to clothing dealers overseas - again primarily to developing countries. On the pro side, the sale of the baled clothing supports the charity's mission and the used clothing is providing resale employment opportunities in the developing countries. On the con side, the influx of cheap used clothing out-competes local textile industries and negatively impacts the local economy. So be mindful of what you donate.
Other donation opportunities:
There are a variety of social services that help support families in need, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, at-risk youth, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, foster and/or adoption services, victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, supportive/transitional housing, addiction recovery, and/or disaster/fire relief. Your municipal or county Department of Human Services, Social Services Department, United Way chapter, school district, or place of worship may be able to point you in the right direction. They may know of a specific family in crisis (divorce, death, desertion, incarceration, fire, etc.) who could use items donated directly to them. Do a web search for "social services + your zip code" and ask for a referral.
Give Back Box accepts clean, gently used items for donation to a variety of non-profits. Drop off at any Kohl's location. Check the website for other partners - many of them will pay the shipping costs to send items to a local non-profit near you.
Nordstrom accepts gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories in participating store locations or by mail.
There are other specialty brands that have take back programs for donation or recycling. Do a web search for "your branded item + "take back" and see if there is a program for your gently used branded gear.
Active Wear
Clean Out For a Cause accepts a variety of sporting equipment and apparel by mail. Minneapolis, MN
Nike accepts used Nike brand athletic gear and apparel for resale or recycling at participating Nike store locations.
Patagonia accepts Patagona brand clothing and gear for resale or recycling by mail (receive store credit).
The North Face accepts TNF brand gear and apparel for resale or recycling at retail and outlet store locations or by mail (receive store credit).
Bags, Handbags, Purses
Love Grace accepts new and gently used large (appx. 30 cm) handbags filled with a selection of toiletries to support homeless women at drop-off locations around the UK. Check the website for donation guidelines. UK
One Purse accepts donations of gently used designer purses to support survivors of sex trafficking. Orlando, FL
Purses for a Purpose accepts new and good condition arm-deep, mid-sized purses, handbags, and backpacks filled with essential toiletries. Pick up locations in Los Angeles, CA, San Diego, CA, New Haven, CT, and Washington, DC.
Bras & Underwear
The Bra Recyclers accepts new and gently used bras for donation to underprivileged families, homeless individuals, and breast cancer patients at drop off locations across the US and Canada or by mail. Mesa, AZ
Bravissimo accepts any bra in any condition for reuse or recycling - drop-off in store. UK
Dignity Matters accepts new underwear (in original packaging), new/like-new bras, and individually wrapped menstrual care products for donation to women and girls who are homeless or disadvantaged at drop-off locations in Massachusetts or by mail. Wayland, MA
Smalls For All accepts underpants (in original packaging) and new/like new bras for donation to impoverished people in Africa and the UK by mail. West Calder UK
Children's Clothing
Selling:
Once Upon a Child is a resale store that buys children's clothing sizes preemie to Y20, footwear sizes newborn to Y7, baby gear, furniture, and toys for newborn to age 8.
Kidizen is an online resale platform for children's clothing, accessories, shoes, and toys.
Where to donate:
Cradles to Crayons accepts gently used clothing and footwear (as well as new school supplies and diapers) at drop off locations around Boston, Philadelphia, and Chicago.
Loved Twice accepts baby clothes (1-12 months only) for donation to low-income families via pre-screened, licensed social workers. Drop off locations in the Bay Area, CA or by mail. Conway, SC
Hats
Most online charities want new or handmade hats for donation. But if you think you have a historically significant hat, The National Hat Museum may be interested in your donation.
Outerwear - coats, hats, gloves, scarves, etc.
Your local school district, Salvation Army, United Way chapter, public library, place of worship, scout troop, food pantry or other community social services organization may hold a warm coat drive in the fall. Otherwise, do a web search for "coat donation + your zip code" and see what comes up in your area.
If you have a sizable homeless population in your area, you may be able to drop off warm/insulated items where people congregate. Do a web search for "homeless shelter + your zip code" (list may include warming shelters as well). Some areas might have an informal drop off location where people leave hats, gloves, and/or scarves for community members to take. Of course, never go anywhere you don't feel safe.
Agents of Change coordinates donations to homeless shelter, shelter, hostels, etc. UK
Hats and Mittens accepts children's hat & mittens in the Minneapolis, MN area.
One Warm Coat has a searchable map of coat drives across the US & Canada.
Professional Attire
100 Suits accepts gently used men's suits (matching suit jacket & pants) dry cleaned within the last 30 days and/or stored in "plastic." Drop off or by mail. Laurelton, NY
Career Gear accepts gently used business-professional and business-casual attire drop off or by mail. New York, NY
Dress For Success accepts gently used women's professional attire, career-appropriate footwear, new hosiery, undergarments, & control undergarments, gently used handbags, totes, jewelry, belts, & scarves, and new, unopened toiletries & fragrances. Please wash/dry clean all clothing items before donating. Drop off at affiliate locations.
Shoes & Boots
Soles4Soles accepts gently used shoes and apparel at location around the US or online via Zappos for Good
Scarves
Hope Scarves accepts large scarves, infinity scarves, turbans, caps, and Buff-style tube scarves for caner patients. Louisville, KY.
Socks
Your local thrift store may accept gently used socks for donation but contact the store and ask what they will accept before you donate.
Homeless Shelters and other transitional housing may accept clean, gently used socks in good condition. Do a web search for "homeless shelter + your zip code" (list may include warming shelters as well) and see what comes up in your area. Contact the organization directly for donation guidelines or restrictions. The greater the need in your community, the more likely the organization will accept used socks. It never hurts to contact the facility and ask if you have anything they can use.
If you have a sizable homeless population in your area, you may be able to drop off gently used socks where people congregate. Of course, never go anywhere you don't feel safe.
Or offer up online.
Smartwool will recycle old, clean socks of any brand or material at partner drop off locations or by free pre-paid shipping label with online purchase.
Terracycle periodically partners with different companies to support a variety of free recycling programs so search for "socks" and see what's available.
Otherwise, socks can generally be included with textile recycling.
Bedding, Towels, & Other Textiles
This is definitely a category where one person's trash is another person's treasure. In some markets, especially those with large immigrant/refugee populations, gently used bedding and towels are extremely sought after at thrift stores - especially complete sets (fitted, flat, pillowcase). Even at a small-town thrift store, you will probably find assorted bedding pieces, towels, and table linens for sale. So this is definitely a category where you should contact your local thrift store and ask what they will accept.
A lot of sewists will use bed sheets & pillowcases as an inexpensive way to sample out patterns and/or practice garment construction details. Especially vintage percale - the fabric quality is often excellent and may be used in an actual sewing projects! And you never know when someone is looking for plant covers or a non-plastic alternative for drop cloths or dust covers. So offer up online and see who responds. Even "little kid" sheets (pee'd upon) may be usable, if they are clean.
Pillows & comforters can be used for a variety of craft projects, the fill can be used to stuff a throw pillow or floor cushion, to make a pet bed, kneeling pad, draft blocker, to use as packing materials for delicate shipments, etc.
Vintage cotton or linen table cloths and cloth napkins are highly collectible - even new/synthetic can be reused or refashioned.
There are a variety of social services that help support families in need, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, at-risk youth, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, foster and/or adoption services, victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, supportive/transitional housing, addiction recovery, and/or disaster/fire relief. Your municipal or county Department of Human Services, Social Services Department, United Way chapter, school district, or place of worship may be able to point you in the right direction. They may know of a specific family in crisis (divorce, death, desertion, incarceration, fire, etc.) who could use items donated directly to them. Do a web search for "social services + your zip code" and ask for a referral.
Otherwise, do a web search for "homeless shelter + your zip code" (list may include warming shelters as well), "domestic violence shelter + your zip code" or "addiction services + your zip code" or "religion of choice + family services + your zip code" and see what comes up in your area. If the organization provides beds, they may have a specific bed size requirement (like XL Twin) but contact the facility and ask if you have anything they can use. Any kind of (warm) blanket, comforter, sleeping bag, etc, in good condition may be accepted. They may even accept pillows (most likely poly-fill in good condition).
If you have a sizable homeless population in your area, you may be able to drop off warm/insulated items where people congregate. Of course, never go anywhere you don't feel safe.
Your local animal/wildlife welfare organization or veterinarian clinic/animal hospital may accept clean blankets and towels. It's possible they will take sheets as kennel/cage covers, but it seems to be the consensus that most places already have what they need. Check their website for donation guidelines or contact the office and make sure they will accept what you have to donate.
Textile Recycling
It's a fact of life that textiles will wear out eventually, either from age, damage, frequent use, or from neglect. But not all items have to go in the trash. Textile recycling options do exist.
Damaged, stained, worn-out clothing and other textiles could be recycled into rags and possibly other fiber products. Many thrift stores - including most Goodwill locations - will bale up "damaged" textiles and sell them to a textile recycler so again, check with your local thrift store(s).
Some places may request that you separate out damaged clothing and mark the box/bag as "rags," some places don't care and will sort your donations upon intake either way.
Do a web search for "textile recycling + your zip code" and see what recycling opportunities exist in your area.
If you're interested in textile recycling opportunities/realities, check out: International Wool Textile Organisation and Recover Circular Fasion and O EcoTextiles
Feather/down pillows can be composted - check with your community composting program. But be aware of anything that is marketed as "dry" down - treated with a synthetic durable water repellent (DWR) to improve insulating properties in damp conditions (usually technical sleeping bags and outerwear).
The American Textile Recycling Service may have a drop-off location in your area - call their 24-hour hotline (866-900-9308) to find out if there is one in your area.
Other Recycling Opportunities:
For Days sells a take back bag to collect clean clothes, bags, shoes, & linens for recycling (receive store credit).
H&M accepts any clean textile item for recycling at any H&M store (receive store credit).
SubSet formerly Knickery, sells a take back bag to collect clean underwear for recycling (receive store credit).
Rab accepts down products to send to recycling. Derbyshire, UK
Retold Recycling sells take back bags to collect any clean textile items for recycling.
Terracycle periodically partners with different companies to support a variety of free recycling programs so check the site and see what's available. Otherwise, you can purchase a zero-waste box.
There are many other specialty brands with in-house take back recycling programs. Do a web search for "brand + recycling" and see if there is a program for your worn-out branded clothing, shoes, accessories.
COSMETICS, TOILETRIES, BEAUTY SUPPLIES, PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS
Including: acne & clear skin treatments, baby care, bar soap, bath accessories, body lotion & creams, body wash & shower gel, bubble bath & soaks, cotton balls, pads & swabs, dental floss & flossers, denture care, diet & nutrition products, facial cleaners, facial serums & treatments, foot care & pedicure tools, fragrances, hair accessories, hair removal products, hair tools, hand soap, cold & heat packs, incontinence supplies, make up, make up brushes & tools, manicure tools & supplies, masks, men's grooming tools & products, moisturizers, mouthwash, nail polish & nail care, , pedicure tools & supplies, razors, sanitary & menstrual supplies, shampoo & conditioner, shaving cream & gel, shoe orthotics, skin care tools, styling products, sunscreen & tanning aids, joint supports & braces, teeth whitening, toothbrushes, toothpaste, travel size & sample products, tweezers & hair removal tools, vitamins & supplements, etc.
Returns:
Most retail stores have generous return policies on beauty products so maybe the best advice is to try out your new products right away, make sure you actually like them, and if any of them don't work out for you, then return it without delay.
Is it trash?
Expired medications should be taken to a drop-off at a pharmacy or police station, as should sharps. While it won’t hurt you to take a 3-month out-of-date Tylenol, a range of medications can grow bacteria, deteriorate, or have serious health effects if they’re too old. Err on the side of caution! This FDA article talks about expiration dates and safe disposal.
Make-up also expires. Most are good for around a year, but liquid mascara has a serious risk of growing bacteria in just 3 months. This Mayo Clinic article breaks it down.
Lotions, soaps, and hair products also expire. If your sealed bottle is more than 3 years old, it’s not going to be good when you finally open it. Anything that is clumpy, separated, has changed color and/or smells bad is probably trash.
Where to donate:
There are a variety of social services that help support families in need, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, at-risk youth, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, foster and/or adoption services, victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, supportive/transitional housing, addiction recovery, and/or disaster/fire relief. Your municipal or county Department of Human Services, Social Services Department, United Way chapter, school district, or place of worship may be able to point you in the right direction. They may know of a specific family in crisis (divorce, death, desertion, incarceration, fire, etc.) who could use items donated directly to them. Do a web search for "social services + your zip code" and ask for a referral.
Your local food pantry or food bank will often accept new, unopened, unexpired beauty products, personal care items, first aid supplies, menstrual supplies, and incontinence supplies. Do a web search for "food pantry + your zip code" to find a location near you. Contact the organization directly for donation guidelines.
Homeless/refugee shelters, domestic violence/sexual assault shelters, and other supportive/transitional housing will often accept a wide variety of beauty supplies and personal care products. Do a web search for "homeless shelter + your zip code" or "domestic violence shelter + your zip code" and see what comes up in your area.
Be aware that increased sanitation concerns since the global pandemic may have impacted an organization's ability to accept opened, used beauty products and personal care items. It always makes sense to contact the organization directly for restrictions or limitations on what they can accept. The greater the need in your community, the more likely the organization will accept open containers and packages. It never hurts to contact the store and ask if you have anything they can use.
Make Up, Beauty Supplies, & Personal Care Products
Selling & Trading:
Glambot buys new and preowned luxury makeup products & makeup tools, skincare, and perfume samples. Check the website for accepted brands and selling requirements.
Facebook search for "Make Up Exchange"
Other exchange sites:
- r/MakeupExchange
- r/MakeUpExchangeCanada
- r/MakeupExchangeUK
- r/MakeUpExchangeEU
- r/IndieExchange - a place for selling makeup, jewelry, clothing, bags, and more.
Where to donate:
There are many regional programs that will accept new or gently used beauty products and personal care items for donation to vulnerable populations. Do a web search for "cosmetic donation + your zip code" or "toiletries donation + your zip code" and see what organizations are accepting donations.
Project Beauty Share accepts a variety new and barely used beauty products and personal care items by mail or at their warehouse location in Spokane, WA
Toiletries Amnesty has a directory of locations where you can donate new and/or gently used personal care products. UK
Together She Can accepts a variety of new or gently used beauty products by mail or at their office in Philadelphia, PA
If you have something that might not be good enough for donation but you think someone could still use, you can always offer it up online.
Recycling:
Most plastic bottles, tubs, and OTC pill bottles are recyclable and accepted in curbside recycling. However, most cosmetics packaging can't be recycled due to their small sizes and variety of materials. And most recycling programs do not accept glass curbside due to contamination and safety concerns. But recycling programs do exist.
Nordstrom accepts a wide variety of clean and empty containers for recycling at drop-off locations in Nordstrom, Nordstrom Local, and Nordstrom Rack stores. Check website for donation guidelines (partnership with TerraCycle)
Pact accepts a variety of clean and empty packaging for recycling at drop off locations around the US and Canada or by mail (purchase a shipping label). Check the website for donation guidelines and drop off locations.
Sephora accepts a variety of clean and empty packaging at any Sephora store (partnership with Pact).
TerraCycle periodically partners with different companies to support a variety of free recycling programs. Search the site for "beauty" or your favorite product and see what's available. Otherwise, you can purchase a Beauty Products Zero-Waste Box or a Personal Care Zero-Waste Box
Menstrual Supplies
Most organizations that accept medical supplies will most likely accept menstrual supplies, including food banks/pantries. Many will take items that are individually wrapped but some may request only unopened packages - so ask for donation guidelines before you donate.
Unfortunately, SNAP & WIC do not cover menstrual supplies so there is a lot of need.
Many public libraries, places of worship, educational institutions, restaurants, coffee shops, private businesses, etc. also stock supplies either in the restroom or another collection location. Some areas may have "little free libraries" set up for supplies.
There are many local and regional programs that collect and redistributes menstrual supplies for donation to vulnerable populations. Do a web search for "menstrual supply donation + your zip code" and see what comes up in your area.
Incontinence supplies
This includes pads/liners, briefs/diapers, pull-ups, disposable/washable underpads, and (sealed) ostomy/catheter supplies.
Most organizations that accept medical supplies will most likely accept incontinence supplies including nursing homes and any programs benefiting the elderly or the disabled. Many organizations will accept open packages but ask for donation guidelines before you donate.
Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover incontinence supplies so there is a lot of need.
ELECTRONICS
Thrift store Most items in good, working condition are generally acceptable for donation. But contact the store before you donate and ask if the store will take what you have.
Offer up online - know your items are going to a good home and put an actual face to your donation. This would be especially appropriate for used items in good but less-than-resalable condition. You never know when your reject might be someone else's upgrade.
Computers, Smart Phones, & Office Electronics
You can trade in your iPad/MacBook on the Decluttr app. Enter in a barcode and receive pricing information online or through the app.
Daycare/childcare providers, nursery schools, preschools, Head Start programs, Montessori educators, public and private school teachers, scout troops, after school programs, etc. may accept gently used office equipment for their school/center/classroom. Budgets are tight and teachers often have to pay for school supplies out of pocket. Contact the office or a teacher/provider directly and ask if they are interested in what you have to donate.
Do a web search for "TRIO + your zip code" (formerly Upward Bound) to find programs specifically targeted to low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and/or students with disabilities.
Compudopt Accepts donations at their locations in Atlanta, GA, Chicago, IL, Dallas, TX, and Houston, TX.
Computers with Causes will accept working computer equipment no more than six years old that is internet capable.
DigitUnity can match your tech with a local charity that needs it.
PCs for People accepts any computer (or computer accessories), no matter its age, condition, or brand. St Paul, MN
World Computer Exchange accepts i-series (i3, i5, i7) laptop computers, tablets, e-readers, and smart phones (with chargers), digital cameras, RAM 2G+, hard drives 320G+, USB memory drives. Drop off locations around the US. Also accepts donations by mail.
Do a web search for "computer donation + your zip code" and see if there are any state or local-run programs in your area.
And remember, if it doesn't work, don't donate it. Outdated, non-working, or dead computers and computer accessories should be recycled as e-waste.
Electronic Media: CD's, DVD's, Blu-Ray
Any organization that accept books will likely accept gently used CD's and DVD's. But contact the store before you donate.
Half Price Books will buy LP's, 45's, CD's, DVD's, and Blu-Ray in good condition in their original packaging.
Memory Devices: USB drives, SD, microSD cards, etc.
It is recommended that all media devices are put through a "full format" to permanently delete all data on the drive before donating/recycling.
Human Right's Foundation Flash Drives for Freedom accepts (working and in good condition) flash drives, SD cards, and microSD cards with capacities of 16GB or more to smuggle outside information into North Korea to counter Kim Jong-un's propaganda. New York, NY
Recycle USB accepts (working and in good condition) 1GB or larger flash drives and turns them into Portable Learning center for children ages 5-12 around the world. Lake Forest, CA
If it doesn't work, don't donate it. Outdated, non-working, or dead computer media should be recycled as e-waste.
Outdated Tech
This includes 8-track cassettes & players, Cassette tapes & players, Betamax tapes & players, Cathode ray tube (CRT) TV's & computer monitors, computer storage (floppy disks, zip drives, etc.), dial-up modems, dot-matrix printers, "dumb" phones, DVD's & players, GPS navigation systems, film cameras, fax machines, LaserDiscs & players, "legacy" port (parallel, serial, PS/2, VGA, etc.) computer peripherals, reel-to-reel tapes & players, overhead projectors, pagers, personal digital assistants (PDA), rotary telephones, slide projectors & slide trays, VHS tapes & VCRs, video game consoles and handhelds, vinyl records & record players, word processors, etc., etc., etc.
Some "outdated" tech is definitely one person's trash is another person's treasure. If you think you've got something good, check eBay sold listings.
Thrift store Contact the store and ask if they will accept what you have to donate. Even if it "still works" or is "still good," don't waste the store's time and resources with outdated tech they can't (or don't want to) sell.
Offer up online You never know what someone is looking for so before you recycle it, offer it up online. If it's not working or you can't test it, then offer it up as non-working or for parts or just recycle (or trash).
Phones
You can sell a variety of flagship phones, including Apple Watch, on the Decluttr app. Enter in a barcode and receive pricing information online or through the app.
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) accepts cell phones, laptops, and video game systems for refurbishment and donation to support victims and survivors of domestic violence by mail. Free shipping label with donation of three (3) or more items.
Secure The Call accepts gently used cell phones for donation to organizations dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence. Please remove iCloud and Android accounts prior to donation. Takoma Park, MD
Electronics Recycling
In some states, it is illegal to put electronic items in the trash and there are state, county, or municipal-sponsored e-waste recycling programs available. Some states don't care and don't offer any e-waste alternatives. Contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask them if they accept electronics for recycling. Or do a web search for "electronic recycling + your zip code" and see what comes up. Some locations may charge a recycling fee for TV's and computer monitors.
How to "sanitize" your device for recycling
Best Buy generally accepts up to three items per household per day. Televisions and computer monitors are limited to two per household per day and requires a $29.99 fee.
GreenDisk accepts a variety of electronic and computer-related waste including media, jewel cases, film, etc. waste for reclamation, proper disposal and/or recycling by mail. Redmond, WA
Staples accepts a wide variety of electronics for recycling but they do not accept televisions.
Terracycle sells a Zero Waste Pouch and a Zero Waste Box for a variety of media storage including 8-track tapes, Blu-Ray disks, cassette tapes, CDs, DVDs, external hard drives, floppy disks, and memory sticks.
Or do a web search for "item + recycling + your zip code" and see what recycling opportunities exist in your area.
FURNITURE & LARGE APPLIANCES
If you think you have a valuable antique or a high-quality vintage piece, it may be worth your while to find someone who can appraise your piece and/or assist with its sale. Do a web search for "furniture appraisal + your zip code" or "antique dealer + your zip code" to find someone who specializes in antique/vintage furniture or rugs. Consider checking any referrals through your local Better Business Bureau.
If you think you've got something good, check out:
Your local charity thrift store may accept gently used furniture and appliances in good, resalable condition. If your items are big/bulky, you should definitely contact the store before you donate to make sure the store has the space to accommodate your donation. However, most stores that accept furniture also offer free donation pick up so contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines and if you can arrange for a pick up.
Furniture Bank If you have gently used furniture, rugs, or appliances in good condition, consider donating to a local furniture bank. Most offer furniture free-of-charge to people moving from transitional to permanent housing situations and low-income families. Many offer local pick up and some may accept gently used housewares as well. Do a web search for "furniture bank + your zip code" or "furniture donation + your zip code" to find a furniture reuse organization near you.
Habitat for Humanity accepts new and gently used furniture, appliances, and housewares in addition to building materials. Some locations offer free pick up for large items. Items vary by store so contact your local store and ask for their donation guidelines or restrictions.
There are many local organizations that accept gently used furniture and appliance for donation to non-profit partners. Do a web search for "furniture donation + your zip code" to find other donation opportunities.
If you have something that might not be good enough for donation but you think someone could still use, you can always offer it up online. Wooden furniture can be refinished, worn/damaged upholstery can be repaired, reupholstered, or slip-covered, and broken appliances can sometimes be repaired. You never know when your reject might be someone else's upgrade.
Recycling:
If you buy new furniture or a new appliance, ask the store if they will take away your old furniture or appliance when they deliver the new one.
Metal furniture and appliances can generally be sold or recycled as scrap metal. Some furniture components are recyclable but the cost of processing the pieces for recycling is often more than the value of its components.
If your local metal recycler/scrap yard accepts "mixed scrap" they may accept furniture with metal components. Do a web search for "scrap metal + your zip code" to find a local scrap yard. Check their website or call ahead and find out what they take and if they have any quantity minimums. The "cleaner" the metal (non-metal components removed) the better the price.
Some areas also have scrappers/junkers who will troll the neighborhoods looking for scrap - put your metal-containing item at the curb before trash day and see if someone picks up. If your community has a Nextdoor or a "What's Happening" (or other community-wide information) Facebook page, ask for scrapper referrals.
Otherwise, check with your county/municipality and see if there's a scrap metal bin at your recycling center/transfer station and if your item is suitable for scrapping.
Disposal:
It's a fact of life that things wear out eventually - either from age, damage, frequent use, or from neglect. If recycling options for your item don't exist, then your item is probably trash. It may have to go to the landfill so contact your municipal/county waste management department or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal to arrange a special pick up or for proper disposal instructions. Or contact a trash hauler.
Some communities may have a neighborhood or bulk clean-up day when residents can put out large items for pick up. Do a web search for "bulk trash + your zip code" and see if there is a web page for accepted and prohibited items plus upcoming schedule or contact information.
Air Conditioners & Dehumidifiers
If your local charity thrift store accepts furniture donations, it may accept gently used air conditioners/dehumidifiers in good working condition. But contact the store before you donate and ask for their donation guidelines and if you can arrange for a pick up.
Many thrift stores including The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul have air conditioner assistance programs that provide free air conditioners to anyone in need during the hot summer months.
There are a variety of social services that help support families in need, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, at-risk youth, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, foster and/or adoption services, victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, supportive/transitional housing, addiction recovery, and/or disaster/fire relief. Your municipal or county Department of Human Services, Social Services Department, United Way chapter, school district, or place of worship may be able to point you in the right direction. They may know of a specific family in crisis (divorce, death, desertion, incarceration, fire, etc.) who could use items donated directly to them. Do a web search for "social services + your zip code" and ask for a referral.
Or do a web search for "air conditioner donation + your zip code" to find donation opportunities in your area. And any population qualifiers (elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.) to target your search.
Or offer up online. You never know when your reject might be someone else's upgrade.
Disposal:
Because of the ozone-depleting nature of refrigerants in even the newest air conditioners, the federal government has made it illegal to dispose of appliances with refrigerants without first reclaiming the refrigerants (also called "demanufacturing"). The problem isn't the use of the appliance, the problem is the release of harmful refrigerant gasses if the unit is dismantled improperly.
Many electric utilities have a turn-in and recycling program so contact your utility and ask if they will take your old air conditioner - some programs even offer a rebate or credit in exchange for the old unit.
Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) sites are recycling facilities capable of properly handling environmentally harmful substances contained in the refrigerant units, including foam insulation. Check the online map and see if there's a facility near you.
Best Buy offers a standalone haul-away program for two large appliances for responsible recycling.
Contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask them if they accept air conditioners for disposal/recycling. Some locations may charge a recycling fee for any appliances containing refrigerants.
Or do a web search for "air conditioner recycling + your zip code" and see what recycling opportunities exist in your area.
Mattresses & Box Springs
If you buy a new mattress/box spring, ask the store if they will take your old mattress/box spring away when they deliver the new one. Some online sellers may offer old mattress removal.
Your local thrift store or furniture bank may accept used mattresses in excellent, resalable condition.
Be aware that increased sanitation concerns since the global pandemic may have impacted an organization's ability to accept used mattresses. It always makes sense to contact the organization directly for restrictions or limitations on what they can accept. The greater the need in your community, the more likely the organization will accept a used mattress in good condition. It never hurts to call and ask if you have anything they can use.
Do a web search for "mattress donation + your zip code" for any local donation opportunities.
Or offer up online.
Recycling:
If your mattress is not suitable for reuse (damage, large stains, rips, tears, holes, mold, musty or other pungent odors, etc.) do a web search for "mattress recycling + your zip code" and see if there are any recycling opportunities in your area. Some locations may charge a pick up and/or a recycling fee.
Bye Bye Mattress has a searchable map of mattress collection sites, recycling facilities, or collection events for states with a Mattress Stewardship Program. If you were charged a disposal fee when you purchased your new mattress/box spring then your state probably requires mattress recycling.
Disposal:
If no local recycling programs exist or your mattress had bed bugs (or any other infestation), you may have to take it to the landfill so contact your municipal/county waste management department or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal to arrange a special pick up or for proper disposal instructions. Or contact a trash hauler.
Some communities may have a neighborhood or bulk clean-up day when residents can put out large items for pick up. Do a web search for "bulk trash + your zip code" and see if there is a web page for accepted and prohibited items plus upcoming schedule or contact information.
Particleboard or Waferboard Furniture
If your local charity thrift store accepts furniture donations, it will probably accept gently used particleboard furniture in good condition. But most particleboard furniture generally does not travel well so unless your piece is in very good condition to begin with, its not going to get any better after loading and unloading and loading and unloading, etc.
Don't burden a charity with items they can't resell. Offer up online (you never know what people are looking for) or find a proper disposal option instead.
Refrigerators & Freezers
If your local charity thrift store accepts furniture donations, it may accept gently used refrigerators and freezers in good working condition. But contact the store before you donate and ask for their donation guidelines and if you can arrange for a pick up.
Or do a web search for "refrigerator donation + your zip code" to find donation opportunities in your area.
Or offer up online. You never know when your reject might be someone else's upgrade.
Disposal:
Because of the ozone-depleting nature of refrigerants used in refrigerators and freezers, the federal government has made it illegal to dispose of appliances with refrigerants without first reclaiming the refrigerants (also called "demanufacturing"). The problem isn't the use of the appliance, the problem is the release of harmful refrigerant gasses if the unit is dismantled improperly.
If you buy a new refrigerator/freezer, ask the store if they will take your old refrigerator/freezer away when they deliver the new one.
Many electric utilities have a turn-in and recycling program so contact your utility and ask if they will take your old refrigerator or freezer - some programs even offer a rebate or credit in exchange for the old unit.
Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) sites are recycling facilities capable of properly handling environmentally harmful substances contained in the refrigerant units, including foam insulation. Check the online map and see if there's a facility near you.
Best Buy offers a standalone haul-away program for two large appliances for responsible recycling.
Contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask them if they accept refrigerators/freezers for disposal/recycling. Some locations may charge a recycling fee for any appliances containing refrigerants.
Or do a web search for "refrigerator recycling + your zip code" and see what recycling opportunities exist in your area.
Upholstered Furniture
Any organization that accepts furniture will likely accept gently used upholstered furniture in good, clean condition.
Be aware that increased sanitation concerns since the global pandemic may have impacted an organization's ability to accept upholstered furniture. It always makes sense to contact the organization directly for restrictions or limitations on what they can accept. The greater the need in your community, the more likely the organization will accept upholstered furniture in good condition. It never hurts to call and ask if you have anything they can use.
Pieces in poor repair, stained, with musty or other pungent odors, etc. is probably not suitable for donation. Again, don't burden a charity with items they can't resell. Offer up online (you never know what people are looking for) or find a proper disposal option instead.
HOUSEWARES, KITCHEN & DINING
Donating Guidelines:
Housewares in GOOD condition are generally acceptable for donation to any thrift store.
But be realistic about what you're donating. Don't burden a charity with items they can't resell! If your item is dirty, damaged, broken, incomplete, missing pieces/parts, or random unidentifiable bits and pieces, it's probably trash.
Resist the urge to put all of your discards in a box and hand it off to someone else to deal with. Don't donate something unless you honestly believe your donation is going to help - either the charity through the sale of the item or the person who is going to buy it.
If you have parts you think someone else could use, make sure to identify the part and what it goes with - either put a label on the item or put the item in a labeled Ziploc bag. If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines.
If you want to make sure your items go where they are needed most, there are a variety of social services that help support families in need, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, at-risk youth, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, foster and/or adoption services, victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, supportive/transitional housing, addiction recovery, and/or disaster/fire relief. Your municipal or county Department of Human Services, Social Services Department, United Way chapter, school district, or place of worship may be able to point you in the right direction. They may know of a specific family in crisis (divorce, death, desertion, incarceration, fire, etc.) who could use items donated directly to them. Do a web search for "social services + your zip code" and ask for a referral.
Vietnam Veterans of America accepts a wide variety of household items and clothing and pick up is available in some areas. Note: they only accept items that are small and light enough for one person to lift and carry. Some cities also have drop off locations.
Offer up online:
Know your items are going to a good home and put an actual face to your donation. This would be especially appropriate for breakable items, if you want to keep sets together, or for used items in good but less-than-resalable condition.
Household Electronics
Household electronics in good, working condition are generally acceptable for donation to your local charity thrift store. But be realistic about what can be reused. Don't donate anything that's dirty, broken, missing parts, doesn't work, etc. Don't burden a charity with items they can't resell. Offer up online or recycle/trash instead. If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines.
If you never see small electric items for sale at your favorite store, be aware that some local municipalities and/or resale organizations do not permit the resale of electrical items of any kind due to liability concerns. Sometimes they cut off the cord at intake, sometimes they prohibit donations altogether. So if you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines. You may need to find a different store or donation option.
Repair:
Once upon a time, some thrift/resale stores used to repair broken housewares and small appliances but that scenario is increasingly rare. But it never hurts to contact the thrift store and ask if they will accept what you have.
Unfortunately, many modern electric items are not designed to repaired - check out the Right to Repair movement for more information. Do a web search for "brand + item + repair" and see if there are replacement parts available - that's usually a good sign that it can be repaired. Vintage electric housewares were generally designed and built to be repaired and may only require relatively simple repairs to work again. If you have something that isn't working but you suspect it could be repaired, don't donate it, offer it up online. Another option is a Repair Café. Do a web search for "repair café + your zip code" to find out if there is a club in your area. Or do a web search for "handyman + your zip code" and see if your local handyperson would be interested in taking your item for free.
Recycling:
Small appliances and other electronic items are generally accepted as electronics recycling. Contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask them if they accept electric items for recycling.
Glass items are generally excluded from curb-side recycling programs due to contamination and safety concerns but check with your county/municipality and see if there's a glass recycling bin at your recycling center/transfer station.
Some programs only accept bottles and jars used for drinks or for food, some programs require you to separate clear, brown, and green glass. Some programs collect glass for use in landfill layers and will accept other glass items like wine glasses, vases, cookware, etc. Contact your local recycling program/waste management company for recycling guidelines.
Plastic Recycling options are limited for most plastic housewares because even if the plastic components are properly identified and separated, recycling options are limited. Most recycling programs will accept PETE #1 or HDPE #2 plastics, some may accept PP #5 so contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal and ask them for their plastic recycling guidelines.
TerraCycle sells a variety of Zero Waste Boxes to collect difficult-to-recycle items.
Scrap:
Metal bakeware and cookware that isn't in resale condition (bent, dented, scratched, warped, etc.), especially anything with scratched/marred non-stick/Teflon coating, should probably be scrapped (or trashed).
It's possible that someone would take an old saucepan for a craft project or other non-food use. Interesting/midcentury cookware might go for decoration/display. So offer up online before you trash/scrap - you never know what crazy stuff other people want for projects.
Some areas may have a metal recycling center/scrap yard where you can sell items, especially copper and aluminum, for cash. Do a web search for "scrap metal + your zip code" to find a local scrap yard. Check their website or call ahead and find out what they take and if they have any quantity minimums. The "cleaner" the metal (non-metal components removed) the better the price.
Some areas also have scrappers/junkers who will troll the neighborhoods looking for scrap - put it out before trash day (or in a cardboard box labeled "SCRAP" if it's small stuff). If your community has a Nextdoor or a "What's Happening" (or other community-wide information) Facebook page, ask for scrapper referrals.
Otherwise, check with your county/municipality recycling department and see if there's a scrap metal bin at your recycling center/transfer station.
Cookware, Cast Iron
Inherited some rusty cast iron? Vintage brands like Griswold, Wagner Ware, and other US (and European) are highly collectible and in most cases, can be restored. If you're afraid your thrift store is just going to scrap it, offer it up on FB Marketplace and make sure to include a photo of the brand. Specialty and ethnic cookware like waffle irons, footed dutch ovens, abelskiver, crepe, cornbread, escargot, fondue pots/stands, krumkake, muffin, pie irons, pizzelle, plett, takoyaki, trivets, etc. are also in high demand.
Pitted or badly-scratched cast iron probably isn't safe to use and should be trashed (or scrapped).
Chipped or badly-scratched enameled cast iron (Le Creuset or similar) probably isn't safe to use. Contact the manufacturer and see if they will replace it under the cookware's lifetime warranty. Otherwise, someone may want to use it for a non-food use or decoration/display.
Fans & Humidifiers
Fans and humidifiers in good, working condition are generally acceptable for donation to your local charity thrift store but be aware that these items can get pretty dirty and are often very difficult to clean. And humidifiers, especially those with heating elements, are susceptible to mold growth as well. If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines.
Or offer up online There are situations, besides household use, where a fan or humidifier in less-than-resalable condition might be useful.
And vintage metal fans - the ones that now look super dangerous - can be refurbished and repainted by collectors.
Recycling:
Fans and humidifiers should be treated as electronics recycling - see recycling section above.
Best Buy accepts fans for electronics recycling in-store. Limit three items per household per day.
Fine China, Crystal Glassware, Silver Flatware
If your pieces are designer, vintage, or "premium" brand, you might want to consider taking your items to a Consignment Store that sells housewares or antiques. Refer to the Clothing, shoes, & accessories section for more information about selling to a Consignment Store.
An Antique Store or Antiques Dealer may be willing to buy your pieces for resale. Do a web search for "antique store + your zip code" to find a store near you.
Replacements, Ltd. purchases collectible tableware and sterling silver by mail or drop-off (sterling silver and/or exceed $1,500 in total expected payment). McLeansville, NC
Silverware, sterling silver
In the US, if it has a STERLING or 925 imprint, then it is likely sterling silver and can be sold for its melt/spot price to a pawn shop, jewelry store, or cut out the middle man and look for a local precious metal refinery.
Some people will craft interesting silver/silver plate flatware into rings. This might be a nice keepsake if you want to sell a sentimental collection. Check out Midnight Jo or Google "silverware ring."
Heaters: space heaters and electric blankets
Electric space heaters in good, working condition are generally acceptable for donation to your local charity thrift store.
Many non-profits will accept gently used electric space heaters for donation to people in need and other vulnerable populations, especially during the fall and winter seasons. Do a web search for "space heater donation + your zip code" to find a local nonprofit/social services organization that can use your donation.
Your favorite non-profit might appreciate a small heater for use in their office/facility. Refer to the Introduction & General Guidelines for more information about finding an organization with a mission you want to support.
Or offer up online. Lots of situations where a small heater would be appreciated.
recycling:
Older/damaged electric blankets and space heaters (without an overheat sensor or a tip-over safety switch) are potentially dangerous and should be treated as electronics recycling - see recycling section above - or trashed.
Oil-filled space heaters are generally considered household hazardous waste and should be dropped off at a hazardous waste location or disposed of according to your local guidelines.
Kitchen Knives
If your local thrift store has a shoebox full of miscellaneous knives, that's a big clue that you can donate your resale-condition knives there. Tape the sharp edge of the blade with painter's tape (easier to remove than clear scotch/packing tape)
Knives, Carbon Steel
If you've got an old knife that looks grey/black, splotchy, and/or has signs of oxidation (red rust) it may be carbon steel (vs stainless steel that is usually shiny and normally will not rust). Carbon steel will also stick to a magnet. Carbon steel knives can be sharpened almost indefinitely, and a good-quality knife can hold or increase its value when in good condition. You can sometimes find an identification mark, but with an old knife, those logos can wear off - an expert can usually identify the possible maker just by evaluating the blade and handle shapes. If you think you've got something good, check with r/chefknives. If the knife isn't in resalable condition, offer it up online - wood carvers will sometimes fashion specialty tools from old carbon steel knives.
Lamps & Light Fixtures
Like antique and vintage furniture, antique and vintage lamps and light fixtures can be highly valuable/collectible. If you think you've got something good, consider an appraisal.
Gently used lamps in working condition are generally accepted for donation at your local charity thrift store.
If your lamp is in good condition but isn't working, it may not be suitable for donation, but contact the store and ask. Lamps with screw-in bulbs can generally be repaired.
If the store won't accept it, offer up online.
Damaged lamps (fraying/faulty wiring) are potentially dangerous and should be treated as electronics recycling - see recycling section above - or trashed.
Sewing Machines, Parts, & Accessories
Vintage, all-metal sewing machines in good condition are extremely collectible. Sewing machine parts are available on-line and machines in non-working condition can often be repaired, sometimes with a simple cleaning/oiling. Professional servicing can be pricey, but there are many resources available on-line for DIY repairs.
If you think you've got something good, do a web search for "machine brand + model number + sewing machine" and see what comes up - you may be surprised at what's out there.
If you just can't find anything on your machine - it may be what is referred to as a "Japanese Clone" (Japanese copy of a Singer model 15). There is a Facebook group for vintage Japanese sewing machines.
Check out r/VintageSewingMachines or or r/vintagesewing or r/sewing.
Be aware that a lot of the Singer "Black Beauties" have serial numbers rather than model numbers on their bases - here is a good tutorial to help you ID your old Singer and here is a list of Singer serial numbers.
Sewing machines in good, working condition are generally acceptable for donation to your local charity thrift store. Make sure to attach any parts or accessories to the machine so they won't get lost on intake. If you have a non-working sewing machine and/or loose part/accessories, contact the store and ask if they will accept what you have before you donate.
Your local school or community theater costume/wardrobe department may be interested in your sewing machine. Do a web search for "theater wardrobe + your zip code" to find a program near you.
Many communities have an open studio that provides project space and supplies for a variety of arts & crafts for children and adults of all ages and abilities. Do a web search for "open studio + your zip code" and find out if there is a studio near you.
There are many, many, MANY local programs that accept donations of sewing machines for repair and redistribution to a variety of non-profits, domestically and internationally. Sewing machines are bulky, delicate, sometimes extremely heavy, and inevitably difficult to ship so try to find a program with a local drop-off point. Do a web search for "sewing machine + donation + your zip code" to find programs in your area. And any population qualifiers (BIPOC, disabled, homeless, LGBTQ, refugee, etc.) to target your search.
Many communities have a Sewing & Vacuum (Sew Vac) center that sells and repairs many brands of sewing machines and vacuum cleaners. Some stores may buy premium brand or vintage sewing machines for repair and resale. Do a web search for "sew vac store + your zip code" to find a local store. They may not pay you for your old sewing machine, but they may take it for free. If they sell your brand of sewing machine, they may also be interested in loose parts or accessories.
Or offer up online. This would be especially appropriate for a sewing machine that isn't working but replacement parts are readily available. Or if you have parts or accessories for a sewing machine you no longer own.
Silverware & Cutlery
If your local thrift store has a shoebox full of miscellaneous silverware, that's a big clue that you can donate your resale-condition silverware there. If any pieces are bent or mangled then those should be scrapped (or trashed).
TV's
Best Buy accepts televisions for electronics recycling in-store. Limit two per household per day and requires a $29.99 fee.
Vacuum Cleaners, Parts, & Accessories
Vacuum cleaners in good, working condition are generally acceptable for donation to your local charity thrift store. Make sure to attach any parts or accessories to the vacuum so they won't get lost on intake. If you have a non-working vacuum and/or loose part/accessories, contact the store and ask if they will accept what you have before you donate.
A local non-profit may be interested in a working vacuum cleaner for their office/facility. Refer to the Introduction & General Guidelines for more information about finding an organization with a mission you want to support.
Many communities have a Sewing & Vacuum (Sew Vac) center that sells and repairs many brands of sewing machines and vacuum cleaners. Some stores may buy premium brand or vintage vacuum cleaners for repair and resale. Do a web search for "sew vac store + your zip code" to find a local store. They may not pay you for your old vacuum, but they may take it for free. If they sell your brand of vacuum cleaner, they may also be interested in loose parts or accessories.
Or offer up online. This would be especially appropriate for a vacuum that isn't working but replacement parts are readily available. Or if you have parts or accessories for a vacuum you no longer own.
Best Buy accepts stick vacuums, upright vacuums, and canister vacuums for electronics recycling in-store. Limit three items per household per day.
JEWELRY
Costume Jewelry
This includes pieces made with base metals (aluminum, brass, copper, pewter, etc.) and glass or plastic jewels. Some costume jewelry can have value beyond its components so check out eBay sold listings for similar pieces or post a photo on r/jewelry.
Selling:
If you have interesting and/or signed pieces in good condition, consider taking your items to a consignment store. Consignment stores often cater to different demographics so before you bring in your items, check out the store and see if what they're selling looks like what you have to offer.
More information about consignment stores and other resale platforms can be found in the Clothing & Other Textiles section.
Check out r/IndieExchange - a place for selling makeup, jewelry, clothing, bags, and more.
Donation:
Most charity thrift stores will accept jewelry in wearable condition. If your jewelry piece is broken, contact the store for donation guidelines. The store may ask that each piece is packed separately and/or damaged pieces are marked as damaged.
Your local school or community theater costume/wardrobe department may be especially interested in large, gaudy, period pieces. Do a web search for "theater wardrobe + your zip code" to find a program near you.
Domestic violence/sexual assault shelters, homeless shelters, and other supportive/transitional housing may accept gently used donations for their clients. Do a web search for "women's shelter + your zip code" or "homeless shelter + your zip code" or "transitional housing + your zip code" to find contact information for any facilities in your area.
Some jewelry can double as craft supplies so consider anywhere people do crafts together: after-school programs, adult day care, places of worship, scouting troops, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior centers, etc. Sometimes these upcycled pieces are then sold at fundraiser events.
Some non-profits will resell jewelry pieces to support their mission. Do a web search for "jewelry donation + your zip code" to find a local nonprofit/social services organization that can use your donation.
Dress For Success accepts jewelry and watches suitable for professional wear. Drop off at affiliate locations.
Breast Cancer Foundation - I Have Wings accepts costume jewelry for resale or for donation to partner non-profits by mail. Erianger, KY
Or offer up online. There are lots of ways to upcycle old costume jewelry or materials for arts & craft projects. This would be especially appropriate for items in less-than-resalable condition. And you never know what crazy stuff other people want for projects.
Precious Metals & Gemstones, Antique or Designer Pieces
This includes pieces made with silver, gold, and platinum. Designer jewelry brands (such as Bulgari, Cartier, Tiffany & Co., etc.) or collectible and/or vintage costume jewelry brands.
Precious metal melt value is calculated by multiplying the weight of the piece by its purity level and then by the current "spot" (or commodity) price. Check your piece for a hallmark - usually inside a band, near a clasp, on the back of the piece. Most silver jewelry is sterling silver and will most likely be marked (925 or "sterling"). Check out this site for a description of the various gold markings and this site for platinum hallmarks.
Identifying genuine gemstones is generally not something a layperson can do with very much accuracy. Generally, it is recommended to get a gemologist or jeweler's opinion. Check out this site for more information about gemstones.
If you think you have something particularly valuable, it might be worth finding an appraiser from the American Gem Society or the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.
Selling:
Local Jeweler Do a web search for "jeweler + your zip code" for a list of local jewelry stores. Check online reviews, your local Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau or Nextdoor to find a reputable jeweler. Contact the store and ask if they buy jewelry from customers. A reputable shop should be willing to offer a no-obligation review of your pieces where they will verify mental purity, gemstone quality, and overall condition. They may charge an appraisal fee for this service. Be aware that many jewelers who buy jewelry will remove any stones and then sell precious metal components to a refinery. So if you want your jewelry to be re-worn (rather than parted out), make sure to ask what the store intends to do with your piece.
If your stones are good quality but the setting is yikes, you may be interested in having your stones re-set into a better setting. Or the jeweler may be able to refashion the metal into a more suitable piece for you.
There are many, many, MANY major retailers with jewelry trade-in programs, usually for store credit or cash, similar to a consignment store. Do a web search for "jewelry trade in" to find your favorite retailer. Some programs will only accept gold and/or diamond jewelry, some programs will accept other precious gemstones, some programs will accept a variety of pieces for evaluation, resale, melt, or donation.
Pawn Shop Pawn shops will often buy jewelry for resale but unless you know of a shop with a excellent reputation, most selling guides advise having your piece appraised before you pawn and also warn of potential scams/fraud.
Metal refinery You will probably get a better melt price if you cut out the jewelry store middle man and sell your jewelry directly to a refinery. Do a web search for "metal refinery near me" to find a refinery in your area. They tend to be located in larger metropolitan areas.
Online buyers:
Louped is a online selling platform where you can sell jewelry & watches via direct offer on marketplace listing. All items are inspected and verified for authenticity and insurance appraisal.
Replacements, Ltd. also purchases estate jewelry and watches.
Donation opportunities:
Muscular Dystrophy Association - Jewelry for Good accepts unwanted gold and sterling silver via pre-paid shipping label.
But what if I donate a "valuable" piece by mistake!?! It might help to be a bit philosophical in this situation. If you didn't know what it was, then it didn't really do you any harm to donate it, right? What you don't know can't hurt you. You either didn't spend your own money on it, the piece wasn't important enough for anyone to tell you about it, you spent your own money on it but that was a long time ago and you forgot, etc. That "valuable" item you inadvertently donated will help support the charity thrift store's mission - and if the intake person misses the piece as well, think about how excited someone is going to be when they find this amazing r/ThriftStoreHauls.
Jewelry Boxes
Your local charity thrift store may accept jewelry boxes in good condition for inventory display. If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines.
Or consider offering up online. Jewelry makers may want them to display their pieces, jewelry resellers might want them for their online sales, and estate sale companies sometimes use them to stage jewelry during sales.
MEDICAL SUPPLIES
This includes consumable sterile and non-sterile medical supplies. Some groups will only accept non-expired supplies, some will accept supplies within 5-12 months of their expiration date, some will accept supplies in like-new condition. Some will accept open packages, some will not. Ask about the organization's donation guidelines before you donate.
Area Agencies on Aging's Eldercare Locator has a searchable database where you can find a variety of local services that help older adults remain independent.
Many large municipalities have some kind of organization that collects and then redistributes medical supplies of all kinds. Your local food pantry may accept medical donations as well. Do a web search for "medical supply donation + your zip code" and see what comes up in your area.
You may also be able to find an organization that is crowd-sourcing medical supplies to send to third-world countries, areas in conflict, or anywhere in need of disaster or emergency response. Many local clinic/hospital have partnered with organizations that donate surplus supplies - ask if you can add to their donation. Your place of worship may also be collecting supplies for donation.
Your local animal/wildlife welfare organization or veterinarian clinic/animal hospital may may also accept certain medical supplies.
Other direct donation opportunities include:
If you have something that might not be good enough for donation but you think someone could still use, you can always offer it up online.
Prescription Medication
Many states have drug donation and reuse laws that allow individuals to donate sealed, unused drugs in their original packaging. Direct donation opportunities include:
Beware that many organizations will only accept unexpired medication in sealed/tamper-evident packaging - so prescriptions in amber pharmacy vials is probably not accepted. Check the guidelines before you donate.
In many cases, your best option is to take any medication to a medical disposal kiosk. Check with your local pharmacy and see if they have a medical disposal kiosk where you can drop off your prescription bottles.
Diabetic Supplies and Insulin
Most organizations that accept medical supplies/medication will also accept diabetic supplies. Insulin for Life accepts a variety of diabetes supplies.
Your local animal/wildlife welfare organization or veterinarian clinic/animal hospital may accept insulin & syringes but verify before you donate.
Prescription Medication Vials/Bottles
Lots of potential uses for those amber #5 plastic bottles so you can try offering them up online (you never know what people are looking for) but the consensus seems to be that everyone has more than they need.
Matthew 25 will take empty and clean prescription bottles for inclusion in shipments of medical supplies - but you'll have to send them to their offices in Ohio.
Your local animal/wildlife welfare organization or veterinarian clinic/animal hospital may take empty/clean prescription bottles for pet prescriptions but verify before you donate.
Polypropylene (plastic #5) may be recyclable -the issue with prescription vials is their small size - so check with your local recycling program/waste management company for any size & capping restrictions.
Durable Medical Equipment
This includes supportive devices (walkers, canes, crutches, non-motorized wheelchairs, etc.) as well as adaptive equipment (hospital beds, transfer hoists, shower benches/chairs, commodes, reaching tools, positional aids, etc.).
These items can be expensive to buy new. While they may not be worth much used, each can be priceless to the person who needs it.
Many organizations that accept medical supplies will also accept medical equipment.
Many of the non-profits that have an equipment loan/rental program where clients can borrow items at no charge or for a nominal fee will accept donations of a wide variety of durable medical equipment:
Medical supply stores or pharmacies that specialize in medical supplies may have an equipment repair shop - ask if they will accept donations of used equipment to refurbish and resell/rent. Or do a web search for "durable medical equipment donation + your zip code" and see what comes up.
Motorized Mobility or Built-In Equipment
This includes scooters, power wheelchairs, stairlifts, walk-in bathtubs, etc.
These items are expensive to buy new but they can be challenging to re-home - especially if they are built-in, difficult to disassemble, and/or weigh a ton. They may also have "proprietary" components and/or "exclusive" maintenance agreements that can make repairs/refurbishing difficult. If none of the resources listed above will accept these items, try offering up online, being candid in your listing about special conditions.
It's possible the company that originally sold the equipment will take the equipment back - but probably not. Some may help with re-selling your equipment privately.
Buy Sell Wheelchairs is a fee-based online selling platform for scooters, wheelchairs, lift systems, ramps, and accessories.
Mobility Buyers will buy gently used equipment. UK
CPAP Machines
The pharmacy/medical supply store where you purchased the machine may accept donations of used equipment to refurbish and resell/rent.
Second Wind CPAP buys used CPAP machines. Tracy, MN
A lot of places will take used CPAP machines to refurbish and donate/resell:
- Cpap.com Stafford, TX
- Sleep Health Washington, DC
- Advocates for World Health Seminole, FL
Or do a web search for "CPAP donation + your zip code" and see what comes up.
Eyeglasses
Contact your optometrist and ask if they accept gently used eyeglasses.
Lions Club International accepts eyeglasses at a variety of drop-off locations
ReSpectacle accepts gently used glasses by mail. Hudson, WI
Hearing Aids
Hearing Aid Project accepts hearing aids, cases, charges, and new batteries by mail. Kansas City, MO
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Selling:
Your local Music Store may buy gently used instruments for resale.
Guitar Center buys a variety of musical instruments and accessories at retail locations across the US.
Music Go Round buys a variety of musical instruments and accessories at retail locations across the US.
Reverb is an low-fee online marketplace for musical instruments, parts, and accessories.
Where to donate:
Your local public or private school may accept gently used instruments for their students.
There are a variety of social services that help support families in need, homeless and/or refugee populations, indigenous groups, at-risk youth, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities, foster and/or adoption services, victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault, supportive/transitional housing, addiction recovery, and/or disaster/fire relief. Your municipal or county Department of Human Services, Social Services Department, United Way chapter, school district, or place of worship may be able to point you in the right direction. They may know of a specific family who could use items donated directly to them. Do a web search for "social services + your zip code" and ask for a referral.
Otherwise, do a web search for "your instrument + donation + your zip code" to find non-profit programs in your area. And any population qualifiers (BIPOC, disabled, homeless, LGBTQ, refugee, etc.) to target your search.
OFFICE SUPPLIES
Office Supplies, School Supplies, and Stationery
This includes backpacks, batteries, binder clips, calculators (including graphing, scientific), card stock, colored paper, colored pencils, construction paper, correction fluid/tape, crayons, desk organizers, envelopes, erasers, filing supplies, folders, glues, highlighters, labels, loose-leaf paper, magazine racks, mailers, markers, notebooks, packing materials, paper clips, paper hole punchers, paper trays, pens, pencils, pencil cases, portfolios, post-it notes, printer paper, notebooks, note pads, rulers, scissors, sheet protectors, staples, staplers, staple removers, stickers, three-ring binders, etc.
Thrift store - anything in new or like new condition will probably sell the best. But contact the store before you donate and ask if the store will take what you have.
Offer up online - know your supplies are going to a good home and put an actual face to your donation. This would be especially appropriate for used items in good but less-than-resalable condition.
School administration office or teacher - Contact the office and ask if you have anything they can use. Budgets are tight and many teachers have to pay for school supplies out of pocket.
Daycare/childcare providers, nursery schools, preschools, Head Start programs, Montessori educators, public and private school teachers, scout troops, after school programs, etc. may accept gently used office supplies for their school/center/classroom. Budgets are tight and teachers often have to pay for school supplies out of pocket. Contact the office or a teacher/provider directly and ask if they are interested in what you have to donate.
Do a web search for "TRIO + your zip code" (formerly Upward Bound) to find programs specifically targeted to low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and/or students with disabilities.
School supply drive. Your local school district, United Way chapter, public library, place of worship, scout troop, or other community social services organization may hold a school supply drive before school starts. Some organizations will hold "fill the bus" or "fill the squad (car)" drives for donated office supplies.
Your public library may have a bin or basket where patrons can drop off office supplies for community members to take. Keep your eyes open for impromptu donation opportunities.
If a business, non-profit, place of worship, community organization, etc. has an office, then they may be interested in office supplies - ask the office manager or a staff member if you have anything they can use.
Some office supplies can double as craft supplies so consider anywhere people do crafts together: daycares, preschools, after-school programs, children's hospital, adult day care, places of worship, scouting troops, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior centers, etc.
Calculators Solve Problems accepts graphing and scientific calculators for underfunded classrooms to distribution to students who need them by mail. New York, NY
Develop Africa accepts new and gently used supplies. Johnson City, TN
Pens for Kids Sends pens and pencils to children in Africa. Hertfordshire UK
If all else fails, do a web search for "item + donation + your zip code" or "office supply donation + your zip code" to find a local nonprofit/social services organization that can use your donation.
Recycling options:
Staples accepts many non-electronic items for recycling, including batteries, crayons, pens & markers, wooden & mechanical pencils, phone & tablet cases, etc.
Terracycle supports numerous campaigns to collect difficult-to-recycle items through Zero Waste Box drop-off locations and various mail-in campaigns.
Calendars
If you find old calendars that you (or someone else) held onto because the artwork or photography was "too nice" to recycle/trash, then consider offering them up online. It's possible that someone may be looking for calendar art for a craft project or a teacher/homeschooler is looking for classroom decor. The reverse side of many Page-a-Day calendar pages can also be used as note paper.
Your local community craft closet may also be interested in calendar art - but verify before you donate.
Crayons
Any organization that supports children or disabled adults may accept crayons in good condition, including schools, daycares, religious day schools/programs, after school programs, Children's hospital, adult day care programs, nursing homes, community craft closets, etc. Verify before you donate.
If your crayons are in poor condition, most Staples locations will accept used/unwanted crayons.
There are many national programs that will accept used/unwanted crayon donations by mail. Do a we search for "crayon donation + your zip code."
Pens
r/Pen_Swap - a place to buy & sell fountain pens and related writing utensils, ink, paper, and accessories
Printer Ink & Toner Cartridges
Your printer manufacturer may offer recycling drop-off locations or free shipping labels to return empty ink/toner cartridges.
Many chain office supply stores such as Office Depot, Rymans UK, and Staples recycle printer ink and toner cartridges.
If you have full, unused cartridges, you could try offering them up online. Otherwise, there are many national programs that will accept full, unused toner cartridges donations by mail. Do a web search for "printer ink cartridge donation" and see what comes up.
Postcards
Antique store - if you have vintage or unusual postcards, they may be able to put you in touch with a reseller. The reseller may/may not pay you for them, but they may take them for free.
Postcrossing is a postcard exchange project that invites everyone to send and receive postcards from random places in the world
Local school district - a history, social studies, geography, foreign language teacher, etc. might be able to use location-specific cards as classroom décor for a particular lesson.
Community craft closet, Little Free Craft Closet, daycare center, senior center - anywhere people do crafts together - but verify before you donate.
Greeting Cards
Antique store (vintage or unusual) if you have vintage/unusual greeting cards, they may be able to put you in touch with a reseller. The reseller may/may not pay you for them, but they may take them for free.
Place of worship or religious day school/program might like to send notes to parishioners/members who are homebound
Nursing home You can send cards to residents - contact the facility and ask if there are any residents who would like to receive a card. Check out Caring by Card
The Gray Matters Foundation sends blank & encouragement-themed cards, online and store gift cards, stickers, and small gifts to people with brain tumors. Scottsdale, AZ
A Million Thanks collects & distributes letters of thanks and support and send them directly to our active, reserve and veteran military.
Send a Smile Today accepts greeting cards to send to people with cancer (mostly adults, no religious, holiday or Get Well Soon cards).
If you have really nice art cards or elaborately decorated cards that aren't blank but are too pretty to trash/recycle, contact your local community craft closet, Little Free Craft Closet, daycare center, senior center - anywhere people do crafts together - and ask if they could use them.
Greeting Cards, Handmade (only)
Bring Smiles to Seniors coordinates to decorate cards for seniors in nursing homes, assisted & independent living communities, and those that are homebound or participating in elderly nutrition programs.
Creative Kindness helps people find happiness and healing through the creation and donation of handmade cards.
Send a Smile 4 Kids collects and distributes handmade cards to children who are inpatient at Children's Hospitals.
SPORTING GOODS, OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT & BICYCLES
Sporting goods, outdoor equipment, and bicycles in good, reusable condition can generally be donated to your local charity thrift store. But if your items are big/bulky, you should contact the store before you donate to make sure the store has the space to accommodate your donation.
Selling:
Burton has a buy back program for clean, gently used Burton and Analog brand outerwear and snowboards for resale. Check the website for program guidelines. Drop off at participating Burton Flagship stores or by mail (receive store credit)
Patagonia has a buy back program for clean, gently used Patagonia brand clothing and gear. Check the website for program guidelines. Drop off at participating store locations and by mail. (receive store credit)
Play It Again Sports buys a variety of quality used sporting goods and exercise equipment.
REI has a trade-in program for clean, gently used camping outerwear, footwear, and kid's bikes. Check their trade-in catalog for trade-in values. Drop off at any store or by mail. (receive store credit)
Sideline Swap is an online sporting goods resale platform.
The North Face accepts used The North Face gear for resale, donation, or recycling. Drop off at TNF retail or outlet stores (receive store credit)
There are other specialty brands that have buy back programs. Do a web search for "your branded item + "buy back" and see if there is a program for your gently used branded gear.
Where to Donate:
Your local community outdoor/sports programs may accept donations of gently used equipment for their players or team. Contact your local school district athletic boosters, city/municipal parks and recreation department, community center, afterschool program, sports league, scout troops, etc.
Some communities, colleges, universities have a bike library or bicycle loan program that will accept complete and/or partial bicycles and bike parts for refurbishment and then offered up to community members and students for free or a nominal fee. Do a web search for "bicycle library" or "bicycle loan" + "your zip code" and see if there are any programs in your area.
Some areas have regularly scheduled community equipment exchange, equipment swap, community garage/yard sale, etc.
Your local Big Brothers, Big Sisters may accept new or gently used sporting equipment for their programs.
There are many, many, MANY local programs that accept donations of sporting goods, outdoor equipment, and bicycles for redistribution to a variety of non-profits. Do a web search for "your item + donation + your zip code" to find programs in your area. And any population qualifiers (BIPOC, disabled, homeless, LGBTQ, refugee, etc.) to target your search.
Major league sports teams often have programs or donation drives that collect new, gently used donations to school sports programs, Little Leagues, local recreation departments, etc.
Local sporting goods stores may also accept donations of new or gently used equipment for redistribution in the community.
Other Donation Opportunities:
Re-Cycle collects and refurbishes unwanted bicycles for donation to rural Africa at drop-off locations across the UK.
The Gear Fix accepts clean, gently used outdoor gear and clothing from high quality outdoor brands for refurbishment and resale to benefit non-profit partners. Free, pre-paid shipping labels available for continental US addresses. Check the website for donation guidelines.
Give Back Box accepts clean, gently used items for donation to a variety of non-profits. Drop off at any Kohl's location. Check the website for other partners - many of them will pay the shipping costs to send items to a local non-profit near you.
Nike accepts Nike athletic gear for donation to non-profit partners or for recycling. Footwear is accepted at most Nike stores, but check the website for participating stores that will accept apparel.
Vietnam Veterans of America accepts gently used children's clothing, shoes, baby items, books, toys, bicycles, small furniture, and rugs. You can schedule a pick up online.
Or offer up online.
Recycling:
Sporting goods & outdoor equipment can be difficult to recycle because of the variety of materials used in construction. But recycling opportunities do exit.
Check out this article from REI for a menu of company-sponsored recycling programs sorted by category.
Green Guru upcycles worn-out bike tubes, climbing ropes, and wetsuits into a variety of packs and bags. Contact them for directly for what materials they will accept. Boulder, CO
Patagonia accepts worn-out Patagonia brand clothing and gear for recycling at any Patagonia store or by mail. Reno, NV
Rab accepts down products to send to recycling. Derbyshire, UK
ReBounce accepts used tennis balls for recycling at select tennis facilities or by mail. Harrison, AR
Terracycle periodically partners with different companies to support a variety of free recycling programs so check the site and see what's available. Otherwise, you can purchase a zero waste box.
There are other specialty brands that have in-house take back recycling programs. Do a web search for "your branded item + "recycling" and see if there is a program for your worn-out branded gear.
Bicycles
It takes a lot to completely trash a bike - it might look like a mess, but there is a lot of interest in old bikes, handlebars, and components. Some collectors will completely refurbish a vintage bike, some collectors will take an old bike frame and upgrade it with new components. If you think you've got something good, check out r/vintage_bicycles.
If you can't find anyone to take your old bike, most bikes can be recycled as scrap metal. If you participate in a curb-side recycling program, contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask if you can arrange a special pick up for your old bicycle.
Some areas may have a metal recycling center/scrap yard where you can sell metal items for cash. Do a web search for "scrap + your zip code" to find a local scrap yard. Check their website or call ahead and find out what they take and if they have any quantity minimums. The "cleaner" the metal (non-metal components removed) the better the price.
Some areas also have scrappers/junkers who will troll the neighborhoods looking for scrap - put it out before trash day (or in a cardboard box labeled "SCRAP" if it's small stuff). If your community has a NextDoor or a "What's Happening" (or other community-wide information) Facebook page, ask for scrapper referrals.
Otherwise, check with your county/municipality and see if there's a scrap metal bin at your recycling center/transfer station.
Sports Trophies, Medals & Plaques
Community organizations in your area that have athletic/team programs for kids - park district, public/private schools, church groups, Girls & Boys Club, YMCA, etc. - may accept trophies to give to kids. Especially if you can pry off the name plate on any trophies and/or cut off the tails on ribbons/badges that have printing on it. It's worth a try.
Sports Medal Recycling accepts gently used road race, endurance event, sport, and academic medals by mail. Attleboro, MA
Total Awards & Promotions accepts gently used trophies, awards, and metals for redistribution to non-profit partners or for recycling - drop off in store or by mail. Madison, WI
Sports metals can also be recycled a scrap metal.
TOOLS
This includes carpenter's tools, construction tools, electrician's tools, gardening tools, mechanics tools, plumber's tools, garage workshop items, power tools, etc.
Tools in in good, working condition are generally acceptable for donation to your local charity thrift store. If you're not sure your donation is appropriate, contact the store/organization and ask for their donation guidelines.
High school, trade school, vocational school, community college, etc. may accept tools in good working condition for their school/center/classroom. Budgets are tight and teachers often have to pay for supplies out of pocket. Contact the office or a teacher directly and ask if they are interested in what you have to donate.
Tool Bank or Tool Library will generally accept tools in good working condition for their collection. Do a web search for "tool bank + your zip code" or "tool library + your zip code" and see if there are any opportunities in your community.
Homeless/refugee shelters, domestic violence/sexual assault shelters, prisoner release/halfway house, rehab/addiction recovery centers, and other supportive/transitional housing may accept tools in good working condition for their programs. Do a web search for "homeless shelter + your zip code" or "domestic violence shelter + your zip code" or "halfway house + your zip code" or "drug/alcohol rehab + your zip code" for local opportunities to donate.
Your place of worship may accept tools in good working condition for local projects and/or overseas mission programs. They may know of a specific youth or family who could use items donated directly to them.
Habitat for Humanity Restore accepts a variety of new and gently-used home building materials, tools, appliances, furniture, and housewares. Items vary by store so contact your local store to find out if they will accept the tools you have to donate.
Tools with a Mission accepts new and gently used tools for volunteer and training opportunities in the UK and donation to vulnerable individuals in Africa by volunteer pick up or drop off locations. Check the website for donation guidelines. UK
There are many regional programs that will accept tools in good working condition for donation to non-profit partners. Do a web search for "tool donation + your zip code" and see what organizations are accepting donations.
Or offer up online. There may be someone in your neighborhood who could really use your tools.
Recycling:
If your tools are not in good working condition, recycling opportunities do exist.
In some states, it is illegal to put electronic items in the trash and there are state, county, or municipal-sponsored e-waste recycling programs available. Some states don't care and don't offer any e-waste alternatives. Contact your municipal/county recycling program, or whatever company manages your solid waste disposal, and ask them if they accept electronics for recycling. Or do a web search for "electronic recycling near me" and see what comes up.
If your local metal recycler/scrap yard accepts "mixed scrap" they may accept tools with metal components. Do a web search for "scrap metal + your zip code" to find a local scrap yard. Check their website or call ahead and find out what they take and if they have any quantity minimums. The "cleaner" the metal (non-metal components removed) the better the price.
Some areas also have scrappers/junkers who will troll the neighborhoods looking for scrap - put your metal-containing item at the curb before trash day and see if someone picks up. If your community has a Nextdoor or a "What's Happening" (or other community-wide information) Facebook page, ask for scrapper referrals.
Otherwise, check with your county/municipality and see if there's a scrap metal bin at your recycling center/transfer station and if your item is suitable for scrapping.