Few things feel quite as satisfying as a good organizational purge, and that’s partly because you know your unused items might find a new home via the secondhand circuit. However, thrift stores do abide by certain rules when it comes to accepting donated goods. Ahead, we’re outlining the most commonly rejected items at thrift stores and where you can donate those things instead.
Meet the Expert
Dani Dudek, thrifting expert of @ThriftwithDaniD
Ray Fabik, thrifting expert and president of Caring Transitions
PJ Gach, a thrifting expert and founder of The Grumpy Fashionista
Related: 8 Things You Should Never Donate to the Thrift Store—and the Reasons Why
01 of 08
Beauty Products
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From perfume to lotion to color cosmetics, beauty products are largely passed up at thrift stores. Thrifting expert Dani Dudek says this is due to hygienic reasons. “Even unopened beauty products probably won’t end up on the shelves,” she says.
“Try selling those on Poshmark or eBay,” Dudek suggests. You can also check with local homeless shelters and domestic violence shelters to see if they’ll accept certain items.
02 of 08
Mattresses and Box Springs
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Due to hygiene concerns and state regulations, most secondhand sites cannot accept mattresses and box springs even if they appear clean, notes Ray Fabik, thrifting expert and president of Caring Transitions.
When it comes to properly disposing of a mattress, “schedule a bulk-item pick-up through your city or contact mattress recycling programs that can safely break them down,” he suggests. If it’s brand new or very gently used, you can try an open market like Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp.
03 of 08
Car Seats
Due to safety concerns, changing regulations, and possible recalls, many thrift stores no longer accept donated car seats. Though gifted with good intentions, they are actually viewed as a potentially dangerous item, explains PJ Gach, a thrifting expert and founder of The Grumpy Fashionista.
If you really want to re-home it, she says to first run a safety check on the car seat. “Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to check for car seat manufacturer recalls,” she says. “After making sure the car seat is safe to pass on, either donate it to a women’s shelter, or post it in your local Facebook Buy Nothing Group.”
Related: 8 Smart Thrift Store Finds That Will Help You Stay Organized
04 of 08
Worn-Out Clothes
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Clothing that’s torn, stained, smelly, or otherwise past its prime won’t make it past the inspection phase at most thrift stores. These non-profits generally don’t have the ability to clean and mend garments; the only exception might be a high-ticket item.
Dudek says to instead find a business that collects textiles for recycling. “See if there is a recycling and reuse center in your area,” she says. “They are usually run by the city, and you may need to make an appointment.” You can also donate old towels and linens to animal shelters.
05 of 08
Puzzles
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Though it certainly varies from store to store, Gach says that many thrift shops won’t take them due to concern about possible missing pieces.
“If the puzzle has all its pieces, consider donating it to your local children’s hospital, daycare, shelter, or post it in your local Facebook Buy Nothing Group,” Gach suggests.
06 of 08
Building Materials
Many items related to construction, renovation, and building projects are usually a no-go at traditional thrift stores. This includes unused tile, old sinks, paint, carpeting, lumber, etc.
Dudek says this is due to safety, legal, and even environmental concerns. “Look for a non-profit or donation site that accepts these items, instead,” she advises. “Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore is part home improvement store and part home goods store that accepts these types of items.” Local architectural salvage shops might also accept donations.
Related: 8 Storage Mistakes That Are Keeping Your Home From Being Organized
07 of 08
Items Covered in Pet Hair
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For health issues and salability, items covered in pet hair are typically rejected from secondhand stores. “A pet fur-covered item in a thrift store can trigger an allergic reaction,” Gach explains. “Plus, pet hair on one item can migrate to others, automatically taking out a rack of otherwise salable items.” She says to take the time to wash the items before donating.
08 of 08
Medical Supplies
Health and safety regulations across the country largely prevent the resale of expired or single-use medical items, Fabik notes. Also, medical equipment and supplies that are recommended for one person may not be suitable for another. He says, “Donate unexpired items to local medical supply charities or check with hospitals and clinics for proper disposal programs.”
Related: 7 Steps to Decluttering Without Regret, According to Professional Organizers
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