When you decide to donate items, it’s usually with the best intentions—wanting to help others or clear out clutter. However, not every item is a good fit for donation, and some can even create problems for the organizations receiving them.
Knowing which things to avoid donating can save you time, effort, and regret later. This guide will help you understand what items you should steer clear of, so your donations really make a positive impact.
Broken electronics
You might think donating broken electronics is helpful, but most thrift stores can’t accept them. These items often require costly repairs or end up as waste.
Donating damaged devices can create extra work for the staff and take up space. Instead, consider recycling them properly at an e-waste facility.
If you have old but working electronics, make sure they are clean and functional before donating. This way, your donation has a better chance of being useful to others.
Used mattresses
You might think donating a mattress is helpful, but many charities won’t accept them. Mattresses often have stains, wear, or other issues that make them hard to resell.
Charities face strict health and safety rules that prevent them from taking used mattresses. This means your donation might end up being thrown away, which isn’t great for the environment.
If you want to get rid of a mattress, consider recycling programs or check if your local waste facility accepts them. This way, you can responsibly dispose of it without causing problems for donation centers.
Stained or ripped clothing
You might think donating stained or ripped clothes is helpful, but most organizations won’t accept them. These items are often unsellable and end up being discarded, which can create extra work for the charity.
If your clothing has tears or visible stains, it’s better to repurpose the fabric or recycle it. Only donate clothes that you would feel comfortable giving to a friend to ensure they have a second chance at use.
Expired or opened food
You should never donate expired food. Foods past their expiration date can be unsafe for others to eat. If you wouldn’t eat it yourself, it’s best not to pass it on.
Opened food items are also a no-go. Once packaging is broken, food can easily get contaminated. Food banks and shelters require sealed, unopened items to ensure safety.
Instead, check expiration dates carefully before donating. Only give food that is fresh, sealed, and shelf-stable. This helps make sure your donation truly benefits those in need.
Old pillows
You might think donating old pillows is helpful, but most thrift stores won’t accept them. Pillows can harbor dust mites, allergens, and bacteria, which makes them hard to clean and unsafe for others.
If your pillows are in good shape, consider recycling them or repurposing the stuffing for pet beds. Otherwise, it’s best to dispose of worn-out pillows responsibly. This way, you avoid causing problems for the donation centers and help keep others safe.