Clearing out your home often uncovers things you no longer use, but that are still in perfectly good condition. Before throwing everything in the trash, consider donating items someone else might need, since thrift stores rely on usable donations to keep their shelves stocked and prices affordable.

Not everything belongs in the donation pile, and each store has its own rules about what it accepts. These nine items are good candidates for donation if they’re clean, intact, and ready for someone else to use.

Pots, Pans, and Bakeware — Image Credit: Pexels

Clean, Wearable Clothing

Clothing is one of the most popular categories at thrift stores, especially everyday shirts, jeans, jackets, sweaters, children’s outfits, and workwear. Wash everything before donating, check for stains or holes, and set aside pieces in good condition.

Shoes That Still Have Plenty of Life Left

Gently worn sneakers, boots, sandals, and dress shoes can be useful finds for shoppers trying to save money on footwear. Wipe them down, check the soles and stitching, and donate pairs that are still comfortable and safe to wear.

Everyday Household Items

Plates, bowls, mugs, drinking glasses, utensils, and storage containers are useful for students, first-time renters, and families furnishing a home on a budget. Wash everything before packing it up, and check for cracks, chips, missing pieces, or other damage that might make an item unsafe to use.

Small Kitchen Appliances

Working coffee makers, slow cookers, blenders, toasters, and similar countertop appliances can help shoppers furnish a kitchen without paying retail prices. Clean each appliance, check that its parts are present, and donate only items that work properly and have no damaged cords or other safety problems.

Pots, Pans, and Bakeware

Cookware such as saucepans, skillets, casserole dishes, baking sheets, and mixing bowls can be useful donations for people setting up a new kitchen. Wash each piece and check for cracks, loose handles, heavy rust, or peeling nonstick coatings before deciding it’s ready to pass along.

Seasonal Clothing and Home Items

Winter coats, scarves, boots, and blankets are often in demand before colder weather arrives, while patio accessories and summer clothing may appeal to shoppers during warmer months. Donating seasonal items ahead of time gives stores more opportunity to sort, price, and display them when customers are looking for them.

Home Décor

Picture frames, lamps, mirrors, baskets, vases, and artwork can help shoppers decorate their homes without spending much money. Clean the items, check for broken parts or missing hardware, and make sure lamps and other electrical pieces are safe to use.

Vintage and Collectible Items

Older pottery, glassware, artwork, vintage decorations, and unusual household pieces can attract shoppers who enjoy finding something different. Check items for chips, cracks, or missing parts, and keep any clearly marked maker’s information or original packaging.

Handbags and Accessories

Gently used purses, backpacks, belts, scarves, and hats give shoppers affordable options for everyday use. Empty every pocket, remove personal belongings, clean each item according to its care instructions, and donate pieces with working zippers, secure straps, and no major damage.