When most people think about donating, they picture normal clothes, canned goods, or maybe some old furniture. But did you know there are tons of unexpected items that can be donated instead of being tossed in the trash or left sitting around unused? Plus, donating is a great way to declutter while making a difference—talk about a win-win! So before you throw anything away, check this list—you might be holding onto something that someone else desperately needs!
Old Trophies
If you have old trophies gathering dust, consider donating them to organizations that can repurpose or recycle them. One example is, the Nationwide Trophy Recycling Program accepts used trophies, refurbishes them, and donates the rebuilt awards to non-profits across the country. Similarly, Lamb Awards & Engraving has initiated a trophy recycling program where they either donate matching sets to charities or break down the trophies for parts to be used in new awards. By donating your old trophies, you not only declutter your space but also contribute to meaningful causes, giving these symbols of achievement a new purpose.
Wine Corks
If you’re a wine enthusiast with a growing collection of corks, you’ll be pleased to know that these little stoppers can be repurposed in various eco-friendly and creative ways. Organizations like ReCORK collect natural wine corks and transform them into sustainable products such as shoes and yoga blocks. You can find local drop-off locations on their website. Similarly, CorkClub accepts mailed-in corks and donates proceeds to environmental causes.
Hotel Soaps and Shampoos
Those tiny bottles of shampoo and soap from hotels can be donated to homeless shelters and disaster relief organizations. Organizations such as Hospitality for the Homeless serves as a national redistribution agency, receiving donated amenities from hotels and the public, and repackaging them into care kits for recognized homeless shelters and needs-based agencies. Additionally, local shelters and food pantries appreciate donations of travel-sized toiletries. Likewise, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul emphasizes the importance of these items for individuals experiencing homelessness, noting that maintaining personal hygiene can boost self-esteem and confidence.
Wedding Dresses
If you’ve got a wedding dress just sitting in your closet, why not give it a second life? Many organizations repurpose donated dresses into something truly meaningful. Angel Gowns programs, such as Angel Gowns by Diane, transform donated wedding dresses into burial gowns for stillborn infants. These delicate, handmade gowns provide grieving families with a special outfit for their baby’s final farewell. Organizations like Brides Across America provide free or discounted wedding dresses to military and first responder brides who may not have the resources to afford one If your wedding dress is gathering dust, consider donating it to one of these causes—it can provide comfort to grieving families or make a bride’s dream come true.
Used Halloween Costumes
Many families can’t afford new Halloween costumes, so some organizations collect gently used costumes to redistribute them. WEEN DREAM is a national nonprofit that collects new and lightly used costumes year-round and distributes them to children in need across the United States. Since 2014, they have provided over 15,000 costumes to kids in 38 states. Even pet shelters use donated costumes for adoption events! If you have costumes from past Halloweens, donating them can bring joy to someone else.
Unwanted Gift Cards (With Small Balances)
Those partially used gift cards cluttering your wallet can still make a big difference. Many charities are more than happy to accept them. For instance, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital partners with CardCash to turn your unused gift cards into funds for their vital work. Another cool option is GiftCards4Change, which collects these cards to support various causes, including feeding and clothing children in need and providing shelter for the homeless. Even if there’s just a few bucks left on a card, pooling these small amounts can lead to significant contributions.
Flowers
It’s heartwarming to know that many organizations give a second life to flowers from events like weddings and funerals. For instance, Random Acts of Flowers collects donated flowers and rearranges them into beautiful bouquets, which are then delivered to patients in healthcare facilities, spreading hope and improving emotional well-being. Another great example is Repurposed Rose, which gathers donated flowers from various events and repurposes them into petite floral arrangements for individuals in nursing homes, children’s hospitals, and veteran care facilities.
Prosthetic Limbs
Donating used prosthetic limbs might sound unconventional, but it’s a meaningful way to make a difference. Organizations like Limbs for Life accept used prosthetics, utilizing components to assist individuals who cannot afford new devices. Similarly, Penta Medical Recycling repurposes donated prosthetics to aid amputees in underserved areas. If you or someone you know has a prosthetic that is no longer needed, donating it could change someone’s life.
Old Crayons
You might think those broken or used crayons are destined for the trash, but hold on! Several organizations are all about giving these colorful bits a second life. The Crayon Initiative collects unwanted crayons, melts them down, and remolds them into new ones, which they then donate to children’s hospitals. It’s a fantastic way to keep crayons out of landfills and bring joy to kids in need. So, before throwing away those stubby crayons, consider donating them. They could bring joy to a child while keeping unnecessary waste out of landfills.
New and Lightly Used Makeup
Many organizations accept gently used or unopened makeup, provided the products are sanitized and in good condition. Project Beauty Share is one such nonprofit that collects and distributes personal hygiene and beauty products to women and families in need. They accept new and lightly used cosmetics, which are cleaned and provided to shelters, foster care programs, and women’s empowerment organizations. Another organization, Dress for Success, helps women achieve economic independence by providing professional attire, including beauty products. They accept new and gently used makeup to help women feel confident during job interviews and in the workplace. Through organizations like these, your unused beauty products can help boost the confidence of individuals in need.
Toothbrushes (Unused but Opened)
If you have a stash of unused but opened toothbrushes, they can still be donated. Project Homeless Connect collects hygiene items, including toothbrushes, to distribute to homeless individuals who lack access to basic oral care. America’s ToothFairy – Smile Drive runs a nationwide campaign to provide toothbrushes and other dental products to low-income children and families, ensuring they have the tools for proper oral hygiene. Instead of tossing that extra toothbrush, consider donating it—it might be more useful than you think.
Old Eyeglasses
Donating your unused eyeglasses can significantly improve the lives of individuals who lack access to vision care. Organizations like Lions Clubs International collect used eyeglasses, which are then cleaned, repaired, and distributed to those in need, particularly in developing countries. Another organization, ReSpectacle, utilizes an online database to match donated eyeglasses with individuals worldwide, ensuring that each pair finds a suitable recipient. By donating your old eyeglasses, you can help provide clear vision to someone, thereby enhancing their educational and work opportunities.
Expired Coupons
Did you know that expired coupons can still be useful? Military families stationed overseas can use manufacturer coupons up to six months past their expiration date. Organizations like Support Our Troops® run programs such as Troopons®, which collect both current and expired coupons and distribute them to military families overseas. It’s important to note that only manufacturer’s coupons are accepted; store-specific, restaurant, or internet-printed coupons are typically excluded. By donating your expired coupons, you can provide meaningful support to military families, helping them manage their expenses while stationed abroad.
Pet Fur
Believe it or not, pet fur can be put to good use! Organizations like Matter of Trust collect clean pet fur to create mats that absorb oil spills. These mats offer a natural, renewable alternative to synthetic products traditionally used in oil spill cleanups. Additionally, wildlife rehabilitation centers utilize donated fur items to comfort orphaned and injured animals. Programs such as Cuddle Coats repurpose real fur coats and accessories to provide warmth and a sense of security to these animals during their recovery. By donating your pet’s fur or old fur garments, you can contribute to environmental conservation efforts and support wildlife rehabilitation initiatives.
Old Keys
If you have a bunch of old keys lying around, don’t toss them just yet! Organizations like Dare to Care for the Homeless accept old keys and transform them into inspirational art, providing work opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness. Additionally, old keys can be creatively repurposed into unique art pieces, jewelry, or home decor. Craft enthusiasts have transformed them into necklaces, bracelets, wall art, and wind chimes, giving them a new life as decorative items. So, instead of letting those keys gather dust, consider donating them to a worthy cause or unleashing your inner artist to give them a new purpose.
Used Bicycles
A broken or unused bicycle might seem like junk, but many organizations refurbish them and donate them to people in need. In the U.S., groups such as Bike Works in Seattle accept used bicycles, repair them, and offer them to low-income individuals, helping them access reliable transportation Even if your bike needs some TLC, many organizations are equipped to handle repairs. For instance, Good Karma Bikes in San Jose takes in used bikes, fixes them up, and provides them to those in need. So, if you have an old bike gathering dust, consider donating it. Your contribution could provide someone with a means to commute, attend school, or simply enjoy the freedom of riding.
Wheelchairs and Mobility Equipment
Wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and other mobility aids can be life-changing for individuals who need them. Organizations such as Wheels for the World and FODAC (Friends of Disabled Adults and Children) refurbish used mobility equipment and distribute them to people with disabilities, both in the U.S. and internationally. If you have mobility equipment that is no longer in use, donating it can significantly improve someone’s quality of life.
Stuffed Animals
Donating gently used stuffed animals can provide immense comfort to children in distressing situations. Organizations like SAFE (Stuffed Animals for Emergencies) specialize in collecting these plush toys and distributing them to kids facing emergencies. SAFE collaborates with various agencies, including police and fire departments, to ensure that children receive these comforting companions during traumatic events. Similarly, Emergency Cuddles for Kids is a nonprofit dedicated to providing stuffed animals to children experiencing stressful circumstances. Their mission is to offer a source of comfort to young ones during challenging times.
Pianos
Donating your unused piano can bring the joy of music to others. Organizations like the Beethoven Foundation accept piano donations, refurbish them, and provide them to musically gifted individuals and institutions in need. Similarly, Pianos for Education focuses on promoting piano education by placing donated pianos in schools and community centers that lack the resources to purchase instruments. Some piano technicians also recycle parts from old pianos to repair other instruments. If you have a piano that no one plays anymore, donating it can keep the music alive for others.