What Items Does Goodwill Not Accept? Things Goodwill Won't Take
Last updated on December 14, 2022
Table Of Contents
What Types Of Donations Are Not Accepted?
Items that are damaged or in poor shape might not be accepted by Goodwill. Every single Goodwill donation center has different rules and operates independently, so make sure to confirm with the location you’re visiting by giving them a call.
But generally, there are some common standards for accepting items that may be in damaged condition, dangerous to handle or that are difficult to re-sell.
The reason items don’t get accepted comes down to 5 main reasons:
- The items is too bulky or oversized
- The item is damaged, unsanitary, or used to the point that it’s not in re-sellable condition
- The item is hazardous and contains chemicals or is dangerous to handle
- The donation center capacity is full
- The item is considered junk or trash
Below, you’ll see examples of items that you can’t typically donate to Goodwill.
Used Underwear, Bras and Socks
Brand new clothing is accepted, but any used versions of underwear, bras and socks will not be accepted.
- Used Underwear
- Used Bras
- Used Socks
- Used Boxers/Briefs
Couches, Tables and Other Types Of Furniture
Furniture, such as couches, tables, dressers and shelves will not be accepted as a donation at Goodwill.
- Couches
- Large Tables
- Dressers
- Shelves
Mattresses And Box Springs
Mattresses, new or used, and box springs are not accepted at Goodwill.
- Mattresses
- Box Springs
Refrigerators, Washer And Dryer, Stoves And Other Large Appliances
Large appliances like refridgerators, freezers, washers and dryers and stoves, are not accepted as donations at Goodwill.
- Refrigerator
- Freezers
- Washer And Dryer
- Stoves
Car Seats And Chairs
Car seats and office chairs are not accepted at Goodwill due to its bulky size. Some Goodwill donation centers may accept smaller seats that are regulated by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
- Car Seats
- Baby Seats
- Office Chairs
Pianos And Large Musical Instruments
Large instruments, such as pianos, are not accepted as donations at Goodwill.
- Pianos
- Cello
- Harp
- Drums
Food And Beverages
Goodwill does not accept food and beverages as a donation.
- Food (of any kind)
- Beverages (of any kind)
Breast Pumps
Breast pumps are not accepted as a donation at Goodwill.
- Breast Pumps
Makeup, Skincare And Personal Care Items
Used personal care items are not accepted at Goodwill. This includes makeup, lotion, lipstick, and other personal care items. But if you’re donating brand new and sealed versions of personal care items, your local Goodwill may accept them as donations.
- Makeup
- Lipstick
- Lotions And Creams
- Other Personal Care Items
Can You Donate Bulky And/Or Oversized Items?
Donating bulky and/or oversized items really comes down to your local Goodwill. Why? Each Goodwill thrift store and donation center is run by your local community, which means every single location operates with different rules and policies.
Most items that are hard to store, move, or re-sell, are typically not accepted. But if you have a Goodwill Outlet location near you, you may be able to donate furniture and other large items, as they have the storage space to re-sell oversized items.
To confirm if you can donate your mattresses, TVs, pianos, computers, furniture, refrigerators, and/or other bulky items, call your local Goodwill first before your visit.
If they’re not accepting bulky items, the next best option would be to list it for free on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
What Donations Are Accepted?
Check out our list of items that are acceptable to donate to Goodwill.