Goodwill is a popular place to donate used items, help needy people, and support job training programs. However, not all items can be donated. Some are not accepted for safety, health, legal, or space reasons. Before you load up your car with donations, knowing what Goodwill does not accept is important. This article will explain everything in simple terms.
Why Some Items Are Not Accepted
Goodwill appreciates donations, but they have rules about what it can and cannot take. The reasons for refusing some items include:
- Safety Concerns: Items that may be dangerous to people.
- Health Issues: Things that could be dirty, broken, or cause illness.
- Legal Restrictions: Some items cannot be resold due to government rules.
- Space Limitations: Large or bulky items may not fit in stores.
- Recycling Costs: Some items are too expensive to recycle or dispose of.
Items Goodwill Does Not Accept
Goodwill accepts furniture, but only if it is in good shape. They do not take:
- Broken furniture
- Furniture with missing parts
- Stained or ripped sofas and chairs
- Mouldy or wet furniture
- Items with pet damage
Some locations may not accept large furniture due to space limitations. Always check with your local Goodwill before donating.
Large Appliances
Goodwill does not take big household appliances like:
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Ovens and stoves
- Dishwashers
- Washing machines and dryers
These items are too large for Goodwill stores and may need special recycling programs.
TVs and Old Electronics
Some Goodwill locations take working electronics, but many do not accept:
- Box-style TVs (CRT TVs)
- Large projection TVs
- Broken or outdated electronics
Check with your local Goodwill to see if they take electronics or offer recycling options.
Hazardous Materials
For safety reasons, Goodwill does not accept:
- Paint, chemicals, or cleaning products
- Pesticides or fertilizers
- Gasoline, motor oil, or propane tanks
- Fireworks or explosives
- Medical waste, syringes, or expired medication
These items can be dangerous and should be away to a hazardous waste facility instead.
Weapons and Firearms
Goodwill does not accept anything that could be used as a weapon, including:
- Guns, bullets, and explosives
- Knives, swords, and other sharp weapons
- Pepper spray or Tasers
- Archery equipment
Laws prevent Goodwill from selling or handling these items.
Car Seats and Cribs
Baby items are important, but Goodwill does not take certain things due to safety concerns, including:
- Used car seats
- Cribs and bassinets
- Strollers with missing parts
- High chairs in poor condition
These items must meet strict safety standards, and many older models are no longer safe.
Opened Personal Care Items
For hygiene reasons, Goodwill does not accept:
- Used makeup or beauty products
- Opened bottles of shampoo, lotion, or soap
- Used toothbrushes or razors
- Prescription medicine
Personal care items may be accepted at shelters or food banks instead.
Broken or Dirty Items
Goodwill cannot sell items that are dirty, smelly, or broken. Before donating, ask yourself:
- Would I buy this item in its current condition?
- Does it need repairs to work properly?
If an item is too worn out, recycling or throwing it away is better.
Used Building Materials
Construction materials like these are not accepted:
- Wood, plywood, or drywall
- Carpet and flooring
- Bricks and concrete
- Sinks, bathtubs, and toilets
Instead, donate these items to Habitat for Humanity ReStores, which accept building supplies.
Automobile Parts
Car parts and accessories are not accepted at Goodwill, including:
- Tyres
- Car batteries
- Engine parts
- Used motor oil
Many auto shops or recycling centres take old car parts instead.
Perishable Food
Goodwill does not accept food items like:
- Fresh fruits or vegetables
- Opened packaged food
- Frozen or refrigerated food
Instead, donate food to a local food bank or shelter.
Where to Donate Items Goodwill Won’t Take
If Goodwill does not accept your items, there are other places to donate:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores: Accepts building materials, furniture, and appliances.
- Local Shelters: May take personal care items, clothes, and food.
- Electronics Recycling Centers: safely dispose of old TVs, computers, and phones.
- Thrift Stores: Some independent thrift stores accept furniture and household goods.
- Scrap Yards: Accepts metal, car parts, and broken appliances.
Conclusion:
Every location has different rules on what they accept, it’s better to recycle it. This saves time and helps Goodwill staff. By following these tips, you can ensure your donations help those in need and avoid giving items that Goodwill cannot accept.