17 Surprising Things You Should Never Try to Donate

Decluttering your home feels great. Whether you are downsizing, moving, or just making space for a fresh start, donating your unwanted items to charity can be a fantastic way to give back. However, not everything in your home is suitable for donation. While many charitable organizations accept clothing, furniture, and household items, there are some surprising things they cannot or will not take.

Before you start packing up your donations, check this list of 17 surprising things you should never try to donate. Knowing what not to donate will save you time and effort while ensuring your items find the right home.

1. Used Mattresses and Box Springs

Most donation centers will not accept used mattresses or box springs due to hygiene concerns and bed bug risks. Even if your mattress is in decent condition, it is best to check with local charities to see if they have specific guidelines. Instead of donating, consider recycling your mattress at a designated facility.

2. Torn or Stained Clothing

Charities want clothing that can be worn immediately by those in need. If your clothing has holes, stains, or excessive wear, it is not a good candidate for donation. Some places accept worn-out clothing for recycling, but it is best to call ahead before dropping off a bag of old, unusable garments.

3. Damaged or Recalled Baby Gear

Cribs, car seats, high chairs, and strollers are often recalled due to safety concerns. If you are unsure whether a baby item is safe, check recall lists before attempting to donate. Many charities avoid accepting baby gear altogether because of liability risks. If your baby items are still in good condition, consider passing them along to friends or family instead.

4. Old or Broken Electronics

Many thrift stores will not accept old televisions, computer monitors, or broken electronics due to disposal and recycling costs. If you have an outdated TV or non-working laptop, look for an electronics recycling program in your area to ensure responsible disposal.

5. Worn-Out Shoes

Shoes that are falling apart, missing soles, or heavily worn will not be useful to someone in need. If your shoes are still in good condition, consider donating them to organizations that specialize in footwear for those in need. Otherwise, look into recycling options instead of donating.

6. Used Underwear and Socks

Even if they have been washed, most donation centers do not accept used underwear or socks. These are considered personal items, and hygiene concerns prevent their redistribution. Some organizations, however, accept brand-new, unopened packs of underwear and socks for those in need.

7. Used Makeup and Toiletries

Opened makeup, skincare products, and toiletries should not be donated. Even if they are only lightly used, they can harbor bacteria and germs, making them unsafe to share. If you have unused beauty products, check with local shelters to see if they accept them.

8. Prescription Medications

Unused or expired medications should never be donated to charities, thrift stores, or shelters. Instead, safely dispose of them at a pharmacy take-back program or a designated medication disposal center.

9. Large Appliances in Poor Condition

If your refrigerator, washing machine, or stove is broken or in poor working condition, donation centers will not accept them. Many charities require large appliances to be in good working order before they can be accepted. If your appliance is beyond repair, consider an appliance recycling program.

10. Used Pillows and Bedding

Like mattresses, used pillows and bedding carry hygiene risks. Most donation centers do not accept them, especially if they show signs of wear. Instead, see if your local animal shelter needs them for pet bedding.

11. Opened Food Items

Even if your pantry is overflowing, most donation centers will not accept opened food packages. Food banks only take sealed, non-perishable items. If you have excess fresh food, look into local food rescues or shelters that accept perishable donations.

12. Outdated Medical Equipment

Wheelchairs, crutches, and walkers are helpful donations, but only if they meet current safety standards. Older models may not be safe or in compliance with medical regulations, making them unsuitable for donation. Instead, check with local hospitals or medical supply programs that refurbish and distribute medical equipment.

13. Used Household Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning supplies, like bleach and detergent, are useful but cannot be donated once opened. Because they contain chemicals, most donation centers will not accept them. If you have extra cleaning products, consider offering them to neighbors or using them up before replacing them.

14. Furniture That Is Broken or Stained

Charities love receiving furniture donations, but they need to be in good condition. If your couch has rips, stains, or broken parts, most organizations will not accept it. Instead of donating, look for bulk trash pickup services or furniture recycling programs in your city.

15. Broken Toys with Missing Parts

Toys are always in demand, but broken toys with missing pieces are not helpful to children in need. If a toy is in good condition, donate it. If it is damaged or incomplete, it is best to recycle or discard it responsibly.

16. Old Books with Mold or Water Damage

Books are often welcome donations, but if they have mold, missing pages, or severe water damage, they will not be accepted. Moldy books can spread spores, making them a health hazard. If your books are in poor condition, consider recycling them instead.

17. Personal Hygiene Items That Are Opened

Shampoo, soap, deodorant, and toothpaste are great items to donate if they are unopened. Opened or partially used hygiene products cannot be given away for health and safety reasons. Instead, donate new items to shelters that need them the most.

What to Do With Items You Cannot Donate

If you come across items that cannot be donated, here are some alternative solutions:

• Recycle: Many cities offer recycling programs for electronics, books, and textiles.
• Sell: If an item has value, consider selling it online or hosting a yard sale.
• Repurpose: Get creative and turn old items into DIY projects.
• Check With Local Organizations: Some places, like animal shelters and community programs, may accept specific items that traditional donation centers will not.

Decluttering is a great way to free up space in your home, but making sure your donations are truly useful is just as important. By knowing what not to donate, you can ensure that your contributions go to the right places and help those in need.

If you are unsure about whether an item is suitable for donation, contact your local donation center for specific guidelines. And remember, when in doubt, a little research goes a long way in making sure your unwanted items find a new, useful home. Looking for an easier way to declutter? Remoov helps you sort through your belongings and ensures everything is disposed of responsibly, whether through resale, donation, or recycling. Contact us today to schedule your pickup!