How to Discard: Donations, Recycling, & Trash

Where do you take donations, recycling, and trash? What can I donate? What about hazmat?


Donation Basics

Would you use it? Donate useable items in good condition

Is it clean? Ensure clothing is washed and items are free of dust/dirt

Is it too heavy? Please ensure the donation bags and boxes are a manageable weight


Where & What can I Donate?

In the United States there are three major donation centers:

Goodwill

General Items:

  • Clothing
  • Housewares and Small Home Appliances
  • Toys and Games
  • Books and Textbooks
  • Bikes, Skateboards, and Scooters
  • Shoes
  • Purses, Bags, and Luggage
  • Home Décor
  • Movies, Music, and Media
  • Sporting Goods
  • Jewelry
  • Bedding and Linens

See more information about large donations, electronic donations, and items they DO NOT accept.


Salvation Army

  • Household Appliances
  • Automobiles
  • Clothing
  • Furniture
  • Household Goods
  • Electronics

Learn more about specific items to donate and how to value donations.


Habitat for Humanity

  • Household Appliances
  • Furniture
  • Building Materials
  • Household Goods
  • Electronics

Find a resell store near you and learn more about what you can donate.


Can I Schedule A Donation Pick Up?

Yes! All of the above centers offer Donation Pick Up Options!

You can also reach out to your local Waste Management for help!


How Do I Donate Large Bulk Items?

  1. The simplest solution is to post it online for free for someone to pick up. Tip: I always tell them to bring a friend to help so you can avoid the heavy lifting.
  2. Schedule a free pick up with a donation center
  3. Schedule a free pick up with your local garbage or recycling company.

What Can I Recycle?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the most common recyclables are:

What NOT to throw in the trash?

What are Hazardous Materials? What needs to be disposed of separately?


What if there’s just too many donations, recycling, and trash?

Consider renting a dumpster or hiring a junk remover.

Do you need more recommendations and help?

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