Top Tips for Donating or Recycling Virtually Any Household Item

Not sure what to do about your old DVD player, cell phone or the china set you inherited? No worries, we have you covered!

There are so many benefits to donating or recycling your clothing and household goods. Your donations help charities and people in need in your local community and prevent things from ending up in landfills, but it’s not always easy to figure out what to do with all the miscellaneous items sitting around the house. Here is a guide for the best places to recycle or donate your things.

Electronics

To prevent your old TV, computer, and cell phones from ending up in the landfill, consider recycling them instead. Various options are available, such as Best Buy, Staples, and local companies that will accept these items. Some places may even provide a store coupon for your contribution. Call2Recycle is a notable recycling program that specifically deals with used smartphones and batteries, collaborating with retailers like Lowe's and The Home Depot. Another option is Powerhouse Recycling, a certified company specializing in electronics recycling and refurbishment located in Salisbury, NC. Canon also participates in electronic waste recycling, including products like digital cameras, printers, and office supplies. Additionally, Earth911 is a useful service that can assist you in locating the nearest electronics recycling facility.

Fine China, Silverware & Collectibles

If you have dinnerware that you no longer need, there are several options available. You can choose to donate them to a local thrift store, utilize online platforms like Freecycle or your community's "Buy Nothing" Facebook group. Alternatively, if you are willing to negotiate and have the time, you may opt to sell your fine china or vintage pieces on platforms such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Offer Up, Etsy, or Replacements.com. It is advisable to be ready to present a detailed inventory with photos for valuation and potentially package and ship the items if necessary. Another possibility is to offer them as a gift to family or friends who would appreciate them.

Electronic Games, CD’s DVD’s and VHS tapes

Some national charity organizations are refusing to accept VHS tapes. Consider donating them to your library, school or local charity instead. Local record stores are a wonderful place to sell CD’s, DVD’s and games that are in good condition.

Eyeglasses & Hearing Aids

Your local Lion’s Club accepts used eyeglasses. They also partner with Walmart, and you can drop them off at their Vision Center. Costco will send your eyeglasses to Assist International, a nonprofit organization that distributes them to those in need both locally and worldwide.

Sporting Goods & Gym Equipment

If you have weights, exercise machines, or fitness gear that you are not using, consider reaching out to your local Parks and Recreation office to inquire if they would be interested in accepting them. Other potential recipients include Play it Again Sports stores, local after-school sports programs, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA, and Senior Centers. You could also explore selling them through online platforms like Fitness Exchange, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Offer Up.

Mattresses

Many donations centers do not accept used mattresses, so instead, contact your local homeless shelter or charity center to see if they will accept them. Places like Habitat for Humanity and ReStore and homeless shelters will often take them as well.

Medical Equipment and Supplies

Help people in crisis by donating gently used medical equipment and supplies. Your contributions can offer vital support to those impacted by disasters like hurricane relief, healthcare professionals engaged in the conflict in Ukraine, and the distribution of supplies to hospitals and communities worldwide facing urgent needs. Get in touch with the listed organizations to learn how you can make a difference.

AFCA (American Foundation for Children with Aids), MedShare and Little Wins.

One of the best reasons to hire a professional organizer is that we have expertise in the most effective way to donate, sell and dispose of the things you no longer use or need. Let me help you find local resources such as donation and recycling sites, appraisers, consignment stores, online resources and recycling sites, saving you the hassle of searching on your own. I can also take your items to local donation centers to save you time and energy! For large downsizing jobs, I can recommend dependable junk removal services in your area.

Please check out my Resources page for a comprehensive guide to donating, recycling or selling your household goods.

Happy Organizing!

Kay