How To Donate To Goodwill

But since every Goodwill Donation Center is independently operated, there's only one way to guarantee that your nearest Goodwill will take your items: visit the donation center in person.

If you're just donating clothing and general merchandise that's in good, working condition, you should be able to drop off your donations without any issues. Any oversized items or belongings in rough shape, may be turned down.

Also, each Goodwill donation center may have slightly different rules with what you can and can't donate. If you're unsure, make sure to give your local donation center a call before your visit to confirm if they will accept your type of belongings.

Generally, if you're donating items that are oversized, hazardous to touch, in stained or poor condition, and/or personal care items that can be contaminated, Goodwill most likely won't accept your donation.

And when items get donated that can't be re-resold, Goodwill has to throw them away where they may end up in landfill. So, please think twice before donating something that is in poor condition (or ask your thrift store employees).

How Do I Get A Donation Receipt?

After you drop your items off at your Goodwill donation center, you can request a Goodwill employee provide you with a donation receipt. But depending on where you live, the process can be different.

When you donate your items, you have to list the value of your items on your donation receipt.

You can use Goodwill's valuation guide, but it's not going to be the best way to maximize your tax deductions. Especially if you're donating valuable clothing brands and designer name pieces. Check out our Goodwill Donation Value Guide for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Goodwill Accept Underwear?

Yes, underwear that is brand new, unworn and still in the package is accepted as a donation.

However, used underwear is not accepted as a donation because it's unsanitary and difficult to re-sell. Remember, Goodwill does not wash their clothes before they sell them.

Does Goodwill Accept Socks?

Yes, socks that are brand new and unworn are acceptable as donations.

But used socks are not accepted as a donation because it's unsanitary and difficult to re-sell. Other thrift stores may accept used socks, just usually not Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Bras?

Yes, bras that are brand new and unworn are typically acceptable as donations. However, not all Goodwill donation centers will accept used bras.

To make sure your local Goodwill accepts bras as a donation, give them a call before your visit.

Does Goodwill Accept Furniture?

No, not usually. But smaller pieces of furniture, including couches, tables and chairs, may be accepted at Goodwill donation centers. However, it's more common for furniture to not be accepted at all.

Goodwill Outlets, a larger buy by the pound version of thrifting, does accept furniture in many cases. Find a Goodwill Outlet near you, that doubles as a donation center, and ask them if they will accept your furniture.

Does Goodwill Accept Large Appliances?

No, large appliances like refrigerators, stoves, washer and dryer or washing machines are not be accepted by Goodwill.

These products may be donated to smaller, independent thrift stores. Otherwise the best way to get rid of your large item may be to give it away for free on an online marketplace.

Does Goodwill Accept Car Seats?

No, large car seats or any automobile parts to Goodwill may not be accepted due to its bulky size.

But if you're donating a small child's seat, your local Goodwill may accept it.

Check with your local Goodwill donation center by calling ahead of your visit.

Does Goodwill Accept Blankets, Pillows, Bedding, Curtains and Comforters?

Yes, Goodwill accepts blankets, pillows, bedding, curtains and comforters.

Does Goodwill Accept Books?

Yes, books and other forms of media, such as DVDs and VHS tapes, are accepted at Goodwill.

However, if your books and media contains explicit or adult content, it may not be accepted.

Does Goodwill Accept Pianos?

Yes, if you're donating a small keyboard piano that is in working condition.

But if you're trying to donate a grand piano, Goodwill probably won't accept it as a donation.

Does Goodwill Accept Kitchen Knives?

Yes, kitchen knives are accepted by Goodwill as a donation.

Does Goodwill Accept Food or Beverages?

No, food and beverages are not accepted as donations at Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Diapers?

Yes, new and unworn diapers for kids and seniors are accepted at Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Bathing Suits?

Yes, bathing suits are accepted by Goodwill. But depending on the season you're in, your local Goodwill may not accept swimwear until the Spring and Summer months.

Does Goodwill Accept Breast Pumps?

Yes, if your breast pump is brand new and unused. However, due to the possibility that a used breast pump is contaminated, Goodwill usually doesn't accept pumps in pre-owned condition.

Does Goodwill Accept Perfume?

No, perfume, makeup, lotions, nail polish and other personal care items are not accepted at Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Medical Supplies?

Not if used. Medical supplies or devices that are used may not be accepted at Goodwill due to the chance of contamination.

If you're donating brand new medical supplies, there's a good chance Goodwill will accept them as a donation.

Does Goodwill Accept Rugs?

Yes, your gently used rug or carpet is an acceptable donation to Goodwill.

But condition matters. If your rug is extremely dirty or worn, chances are that your Goodwill will not accept it and will need to trash it.

Does Goodwill Accept Makeup?

No, Goodwill does not accept makeup, lotions or other personal care items as a donation.

Does Goodwill Accept Toys?

Yes! Goodwill loves to accept toys as long as they are in gently used and clean condition.

But if you're donating toys and dolls that are heavily worn, they may end up in the trash if you donate them to Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Dishes and Cookware?

Yes, gently used dishes and cookware are accepted at Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Wrapping Paper?

No, used wrapping paper may not be accepted or may end up in the trash if you donate them to Goodwill.

But if you're donating brand new, sealed rolls of wrapping paper or gift wrap, this is accepted at Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Comforters?

Yes, comforters are accepted at Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Towels?

Yes, towels that are clean and not stained are accepted at Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Military Uniforms?

Yes, military uniforms are accepted as a donation to Goodwill.

Does Goodwill Accept Candles?

Yes, new and unused candles are accepted at Goodwill.

But used candles that are burned through will most likely be tossed or trashed.

Does Goodwill Accept Glasses?

Yes, glasses and other forms of eyewear are accepted at Goodwill.

However, if it's missing a lens or in poor condition, it may not be accepted.

Why Donate to Goodwill?

If you have any questions about donating your items to Goodwill, please comment them below. If there are some donation tips we left out, we'd also love to hear from you below. Perhaps you can help someone out who is trying to donate their items too.

Lastly, I'll leave you with a few ways your donation is benefitting yourself and others.

Learn more about what items Goodwill accepts and what items they don't accept.