When you think about donating some of your unused items, things like clothes, shoes and furniture probably come to mind. But you might be surprised by how many other things donation centers in South Florida, like 9PickUp, and thrift stores will gladly take off your hands. Instead of throwing these items in the trash pile, put them in the donate pile so someone else can get good use of them. Here are ten things you probably didn’t know you could donate:
1. Bedding Items
Most people know that you can donate mattresses, boxsprings and bed frames, but not everyone knows that you also donate bedding. Comforters, blankets, sheets and even pillows can go to a new home as long as they’re in good shape. Just give them a wash and they’re good to go!
2. Bathroom Accessories
Is it time to give your bathroom a makeover? Then you’re probably wondering what to do with all your old decorations. Most of us just put them in the closet to “use later,” but really, how often do you go back and redecorate with your old stuff? Probably not too often. Instead of storing them away to be forgotten, donate them!
These are some bathroom accessories you can give away:
- Soap dispensers and toothbrush holders
- Shower curtains and towel racks
- Hampers
- Decorative items, such as trays, mirrors and candle holders
- Unopened toiletries
3. Cooking Items
Everyone knows that dishes and glassware are donation-friendly, but the list doesn’t stop there. Pots and pans, baking sheets, mixing bowls, cooking utensils, and even Tupperware are all on the welcome list. Kitchens can get pricey to stock, so your extras could make cooking a whole lot easier for someone else!
4. Portable Heaters
In Florida, it doesn’t get that cold in the winter, but if you’re a native Floridian, the 50s can feel like the 20s. If you’ve upgraded to a newer space heater, don’t leave the old one in the closet. As long as it still works safely, it can be a huge help to someone else who’s trying to stay warm during the colder months. It’s just one more small thing you didn’t know you could throw in the donation pile!
5. Sewing Materials
Have a sewing machine collecting dust? Or maybe piles of fabric you swore you’d use one day? Let’s face it: the craft store always gets us. Certain hobbies we really do mean to pick up, but we sometimes buy all the supplies and lose interest. If you have a sewing machine, fabric, needles or other sewing materials hanging out in a bin somewhere, they can make for a great donation to spark someone else’s creativity!
6. Musical Instruments
That guitar from your garage band days or the trumpet from the school band doesn’t have to sit in the attic forever. There are so many people, adults and children alike, wanting to explore music. Donating your unused instruments gives them that chance without them having to break the bank. Just make sure they’re in good, working condition and nicely cleaned!
7. Luggage
Luggage is one of those things that people tend to collect. Before they know it, they have a hallway closet full of suitcases, duffel bags and backpacks that they rarely reach for. These forgotten luggage items make great donations. As long as they zip and roll, families and students traveling can use these affordable, second-hand options (and their budgets definitely appreciate it).
8. Tools
Got a toolbox full of things you never touch anymore? Hand tools, power tools, lawn tools—all of them can be donated. If you’re the ultimate handyman or handywoman who’s always upgrading to the newest drills or lawnmowers, don’t let the old ones pile up! Something you’ve outgrown might be just the starter tool someone else was looking for to tackle a DIY project or learn a trade.
9. Outdoor Grills
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ou probably already know that you can donate large appliances and countertop appliances, but you may not know that you can also donate outdoor grills. Large grills, smokers and even smaller portable barbecues are all fair game as long as they’re clean and working. If you’re upgrading to a newer, snazzier model, your old one could be perfect for someone else’s weekend cookout.
10. Hurricane Shutters
This one is for all the Floridians out there. If you’ve got extra hurricane shutters you don’t need anymore, don’t just stash them in the garage. They can be donated and provide real protection for families who can’t buy brand new. A good set of shutters could make all the difference when the next storm rolls in. Just make sure they’re not damaged.
The next time you’re decluttering your home, keep this list of lesser-known donatable items in mind! Chances are, you have a couple of them that you no longer need. You can also check our list of acceptable items to see what other goodies you have lying around. When you have your donation pile ready, contact 9PickUp for a free donation pickup in South Florida. Keep in mind that not all items are acceptable to donate. If you have damaged items, we have an additional junk removal service available with your donation pickup for a small fee. We make decluttering easy!