Donating to thrift stores is a great way to give your old stuff a second life while supporting a good cause. But not everything belongs in the donation bin. In fact, some items create more headaches than help. Here’s what thrift store workers quietly wish you’d stop donating—because they can’t resell it, can’t store it, and in many cases, just have to throw it away.
Broken Electronics
That old DVD player or radio collecting dust in your garage might feel like a generous donation, but if it doesn’t work, it’s a burden. Thrift stores don’t have the staff or budget to test or repair electronics, and many of them end up directly in the trash. If it’s not functional, it’s not helpful.
Stained or Torn Clothing
While thrift stores are happy to accept gently used clothing, anything with visible stains, rips, holes, or overwhelming odors should stay out of the donation bag. These items can’t be sold and often cost the store time and money to dispose of.
Used Underwear and Socks
It might seem obvious, but it still happens more than you’d think. Thrift stores don’t want used underwear or socks—even if you think they’re “barely worn.” It’s a hygiene issue and a hard no for resale. Some stores accept new, packaged undergarments, but if in doubt, leave them out.
Mattresses and Box Springs
Due to hygiene concerns, space limitations, and legal restrictions in many areas, most thrift stores cannot accept mattresses or box springs. They’re expensive to dispose of, hard to store, and nearly impossible to resell. If you need to get rid of one, look for a local recycling program or municipal disposal service.
Old Textbooks and Encyclopedias
Unless they’re current editions, textbooks and encyclopedias typically sit on shelves for years without selling. Educational materials become outdated quickly, and most thrift stores simply don’t have room for bulky books that no one wants.
Damaged Furniture
A couch with a broken leg or a dresser missing half its drawers is more of a problem than a gift. Thrift stores appreciate furniture donations, but only if the item is clean, functional, and structurally sound. If it’s falling apart, the best place for it is not the donation dock.
Expired Food or Half-Used Toiletries
Some people treat thrift stores like a dumping ground for expired pantry items or partially used shampoo bottles. Not only are these items unsellable, but they also pose health and safety risks. Food banks have guidelines for what they can accept—thrift stores generally can’t accept any at all.
Outdated Baby Gear
Due to strict safety regulations, many thrift stores no longer accept older baby items like cribs, car seats, and high chairs. If the item is more than a few years old or missing safety labels, it’s likely illegal to resell it. Always check local guidelines before donating anything for infants.
VHS Tapes, Cassette Tapes, and Floppy Disks
Technology has moved on, but these relics from the past still show up in donation bins. The truth is, most thrift shoppers aren’t looking for them—and stores don’t have the space to store piles of media that likely won’t sell. Unless it’s a collector’s item, it’s time to let go.
Random Junk
Used sponges, broken hangers, rusted tools, empty containers—these are just a few of the things thrift stores routinely receive that should have gone in the garbage. If it’s broken, dirty, or clearly useless, toss it instead of making it someone else’s problem.
