Donation Items You Probably Didn’t Know Charities Needed

Charities are always in need of donations, especially around the holidays or after a natural disaster. When you think of charitable contributions, you likely think of essentials like clothing, water, and canned goods. While these are exceptional items to donate, there are many other products that charities gladly accept. Some of these items might even be collecting dust in your home right now.

Some lesser-known items charities need include luggage, cleaning products, gently used towels, toiletries, and functional electronics. Basic tool kits, pots and pans, and kitchen appliances or utensils are also appreciated. Extra bedding, craft materials, hair brushes, combs, and shoes are always welcome. Ensure you inspect and clean used items before donating, and choose a charity that specifically needs the items you want to donate.

Whether you are embracing the spirit of giving this holiday season, going through your storage to declutter, or simply inspired to give, it’s essential to know what items charities need. While each charity is different, there are many things that people always need that you may already have in abundance. Below is a list of items that charities gladly accept, many of which you might not have thought to donate.

15 Items You Can Donate To Charities That You Might Not Have Considered

1. Soaps, Lotions, And Other Toiletries

If you have an entire cabinet filled with lotions and soaps that were gifted or purchased months ago and not used, consider donating some to charity. Soaps, creams, dental hygiene products, and other toiletries are always appreciated, as long as they haven't been opened.

If you have lotion or soap you don’t use, leftover toothbrushes from the dentist, or sensitive skin and don’t want to aggravate it, then find a charity that wants these items. Most lotions and soaps expire eventually, so it’s always better to give them to a stranger who can use them rather than throw them away. 

2. Gently Used Towels

If you’ve recently upgraded your towels, consider donating ones you no longer need instead of hoarding them. Many charities will accept gently used towels that aren’t tattered or stained. If you have extra towels, remember to wash and dry them first, and ensure the charity you are donating them to is aware they have been used.

3. Bedding

Sheets, blankets, and other bedding are always in short supply at charities. If you have sheets you don’t use, or too many throw blankets to count, then consider giving some of your surplus to a nearby charity.

Most charitable organizations need blankets, especially in the winter months. Before donating, remember to wash and dry the bedding properly, as unclean bedding is usually not accepted.

4. Luggage And Backpacks

If you’ve recently purchased new suitcases and travel gear and don’t have the space in your home to store extra luggage, then you should know many charities will gladly accept it. Many charities accept durable luggage in good condition. Suitcases, backpacks, and other forms of baggage are particularly appreciated after a natural disaster.

5. Pots And Pans

If you have a surplus of pots and pans and are running out of space in your kitchen cabinets, consider donating the ones you no longer use. Pots and pans are kitchen staples necessary for cooking most home meals. Donating your old working pots and pans that are in goosd condition is a great way to provide those in need with the tools needed to cook.

6. Cleaning Supplies

If you have a surplus of cleaning supplies, own an extra broom, or purchased the wrong laundry detergent by mistake, don’t throw it away. Cleaning products might not be something you know charities need, but they are almost always eagerly accepted. 

7. Board Games And Toys

When you think of essentials, board games probably don’t immediately pop into your head. Games and toys aren’t as vital as food and shelter, but they go a long way to bringing joy to families with children who have lost everything in a storm. 

8. Tools

If you are planning on organizing the tools in your garage soon, you should know that many charities accept used tools. If you’ve accumulated a lot of extra tools over the years and fundamental tool sets, then you should be able to find an appreciative home for these extra items.

If you have specialty tools and building materials you no longer need, call around to different charities, as you can likely find one that will gladly take these items off your hands. 

9. Gently Used Shoes

Everyone knows that many charities take used clothing, but fewer know they also take used shoes in good condition. Footwear is always in high demand. If you have a pair of shoes in good condition tht you no longer wear, or children’s shoes that were barely used and no longer fit, then find a charity that will take them.

10. Old Laptops And Cell Phones

Technology evolves so rapidly that it’s easy to think a phone you purchased three years ago is obsolete. While an older laptop or cell phone might seem useless to you, it can be a life-changing asset to someone in need. 

Instead of recycling your old electronics, see if a charity will take them. If you find a charity that wants your old laptop or cell phone, remember to wipe the device and return it to factory settings so none of your personal information remains.

11. Crockpots And Other Useful Kitchen Gadgets

If you have more kitchen gadgets than you have space for, then it’s time to downsize. Charities are always accepting items like crockpots, toasters, blenders, and other kitchen essentials to make meal prep easier. 

If you have older kitchen appliances that work perfectly well but you never use them, or are planning an upgrade, then find an organization that will take them off your hands to give to an appreciative household. 

12. Crafting Supplies

If you have a ton of craft supplies leftover from various DIY and art projects, don’t let it create clutter in your home. Instead, give these artistic supplies a second life by donating them to a charitable organization. You might not know this, but many charities are always looking for donations of craft supplies.

13. Functional Kitchen Utensils

In addition to appliances and gadgets, basic kitchen utensils are always in high demand. Whether you have cutlery, bowls, plates, or serving platters, there are plenty of organizations that will gladly accept these donations. 

Giving away excess kitchen utensils is a great way to keep your kitchen cabinets tidy while also celebrating the spirit of giving.

14. Brushes And Combs

If you have combs and brushes you never use, you might think their only future is in a recycling bin or trash can. Believe it or not, brushes and combs are highly requested items from many charities, especially those that work with unhoused populations and women's shelters. Instead of letting your unused hairbrushes and combs collect dust, donate them to an organization that can put them to good use.

15. Seasonable Non-Perishable Food Items

If you have a lot of leftover dry goods and canned items after a holiday celebration, don’t let them go to waste. Instead of letting them linger in your kitchen pantry where they are likely to eventually expire, donate these holiday-themed food items to a charity. 

A soup kitchen or other charities that feed the homeless will find ways to utilize your holiday food surplus, and you can feel good knowing the food you purchased helped feed someone in need of a good meal.

Final Notes On Items You Probably Didn’t Know Charities Need

Donating to charitable organizations is more than just a tax write-off. It’s an opportunity to make a positive impact on those who need it most. To help in a positive way, it's a good idea to know which items charitable organizations consistently need.

Some items you might not know you can donate include soaps and other toiletries, luggage, towels, and bedding. Kitchen items, including appliances like toasters, crockpots, and blenders, as well as pots, pans, and cutlery, are always appreciated. Board games, toys, and craft supplies are also in high demand, as are tools and electronics such as laptops and cell phones.

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