Donating things you no longer need can feel like the easiest way to clear out your home while giving someone else a chance to use them. But a thrift store isn’t always the right place for large or bulky items. Some donations take up too much floor or storage space, are difficult to move, or come with safety and disposal concerns.
Before loading a truck or making a special trip to the donation center, check the store’s current donation rules. Policies can vary from one location to another, and an item that one store accepts may be turned away by another. These are some of the larger items that are commonly restricted.
Construction Materials
Leftover lumber, carpet rolls, countertops, cabinets, sinks, toilets, and other renovation materials can still have plenty of life left. The problem is that many regular thrift stores don’t have the room or setup needed to store and sell these kinds of donations.
Building material reuse organizations can be a better option. Architectural salvage stores and Habitat for Humanity ReStores often deal with items from home renovation projects, so they may be more suited to handling them than a typical thrift shop.
Old Tube TVs
Those big, heavy tube televisions can be surprisingly difficult to get rid of. Cathode-ray tube TVs take up a lot of room, are awkward to move, and may require special handling when they’re ready for disposal.
Many thrift stores also have little reason to accept them because there aren’t many shoppers looking for these older sets. If your local store won’t take one, look for an electronics recycling program in your area instead.
Related: 12 Old Electronics That Are Now Considered Vintage
Baby Cribs
A used crib may look clean and sturdy, but thrift stores have to think about more than appearance. Crib safety rules can change, products can be recalled, and older cribs may no longer meet current safety requirements.
For those reasons, many stores won’t accept used cribs. If you’re trying to get rid of one, check with your local donation center first rather than assuming you can drop it off.
Mattresses and Futons
Mattresses are another item that many thrift stores won’t accept as donations. Used mattresses, box springs, futons, and mattress toppers can raise concerns about bed bugs, mold, stains, allergens, and overall cleanliness.
Some donation programs do accept certain mattresses, but their rules can be very particular. Check ahead of time before trying to donate one, especially if you’re already dealing with a bulky mattress that’s difficult to transport.
Outdated Computer Monitors
Older computer monitors can be tough for thrift stores to sell, especially when newer, lighter models are readily available. They can also occupy valuable storage space while awaiting a buyer.
If a local thrift store doesn’t accept your old monitor, an electronic waste recycling program may be a better option. Check local recycling rules before putting any electronics out with regular household trash.
Related: 5 Things You Should Stop Leaving in Your Entryway
Large Appliances
Refrigerators, ovens, washing machines, dryers, and freezers aren’t easy donations for most thrift stores. They’re heavy, take up a lot of room, and may require several people or special equipment to move.
Some stores do accept working appliances, particularly newer models in good condition. Still, it’s best to call first, as each location may have its own rules. A store may also have limited space for appliances, making it harder for them to accept every working unit that comes through the door.
For more on how thrift stores are changing, see why many thrift stores are becoming a bigger part of how people shop.
Oversized Furniture
Large entertainment centers, armoires, conference tables, wall units, and other oversized furniture can be tough for a thrift store to sell. Even if the piece is in good condition, it can sit on the sales floor for a long time while taking up space that could be used for smaller items.
Some stores have plenty of room for furniture and may gladly accept larger pieces. Others have limited floor space or only take furniture that meets certain size and condition requirements. Taking a quick measurement and calling before you load the furniture into your vehicle can save you a lot of trouble.
Pool Tables and Exercise Equipment
Pool tables and large exercise machines can be especially difficult donations. Treadmills, ellipticals, home gyms, and similar equipment are heavy, bulky, and often require more than one person to move.
Pool tables have their own set of problems because they can be extremely heavy and difficult to transport without the right equipment. Exercise machines can also sit unsold if they’re older or need repairs. Before donating one, check whether your local thrift store has enough space and the staff needed to handle it.
Large items can be some of the hardest things to get rid of, especially when you don’t want them ending up in a landfill. A little research before donating can help you find a place that actually wants the item and can put it to use.
