Decluttering your home? Don’t just toss everything out! Here are 5 items you can donate during a cleanout—gently used clothes, furniture, kitchenware, books, and electronics. Because by donating, it will give them a second life, help others, and keep useful items out of the landfill.
Let’s take a closer look at the five things you can donate during a clean out for a fresher space.
#1 Why Declutter When You Can Donate?
When you start a home cleanout, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by piles of unwanted items and the urge to toss everything. But what if that clutter could actually do some good?
Instead of throwing things away, you can donate them to charity and support local organizations that help families and individuals in need.
From gently used goods to old toys and books, your home likely holds items that others can truly use. Choosing to declutter and donate not only creates extra space—it also spreads kindness and strengthens your community through simple, thoughtful actions.
Curious about the best things you can donate? Keep reading to discover five surprising items that can make a big impact during your next cleanout.
#2 The Five Household Items You Can Donate During a Cleanout
Tackling a cleanout? Before you start tossing things left and right, take a second look! Because some of your everyday items could be treasures for someone else.
Here are five household things you can donate to clear your space and spread some good vibes.
1. Clothes You No Longer Wear
It’s wild how fast clothes can pile up—jeans that don’t fit, jackets you haven’t touched in years, or even shirts hiding in the back of your closet. During a cleanout, these forgotten pieces are the perfect place to start. And instead of letting them sit unused, why not turn them into something meaningful?
Once you donate your clothes, it will give them a second life to keep fabric out of the landfill. That cozy winter coat or those extra work shirts could be just what someone else needs to stay warm or feel confident.
It’s a simple act with a big impact—especially for families trying to make ends meet. And if you’ve got a lot to give, don’t worry! Many donation centers offer donation pick up service for charity, so you can clear space and help others without even leaving your home.
2. Electronics You No Longer Use
Old phones in drawers, dusty laptops from college, random chargers—you probably have a few forgotten gadgets lying around. While they might seem outdated to you, these electronics can be game-changers for someone else.
By donating working devices, it helps others stay connected, study, or even apply for jobs. A tablet or desktop computer could make a big difference for a student or a family without easy access to tech.
It’s also a smart way to declutter responsibly and keep e-waste out of landfills. Just make sure to test everything and wipe your personal data before donating. Many donation centers now accept electronics or even work with e-recycling partners, so it’s easier than ever to give those gadgets a second life.
3. Kitchenware That’s Been Sitting Unused
Got pans hiding in the back of your cabinet or an extra set of plates you never touch? It’s amazing how quickly kitchenware can pile up, especially those duplicate tools, baking pans, or mismatched mugs that just collect dust.
Instead of letting them sit unused, please consider donating them. These everyday items can be a lifeline for families starting over or individuals moving into their first homes.
In fact, shelters and community programs are always looking for kitchen essentials to help people get back on their feet.
Take a few minutes to sort through your drawers and cupboards, give everything a good wash, and pack up a donation box. A small cleanout in your kitchen could help someone else enjoy a home-cooked meal.
4. Furniture That’s Too Big for Your Space
Ever feel like a piece of furniture takes over the whole room? Maybe it’s a giant couch that blocks your walkway or a dining table that turns every meal into a tight squeeze. During a cleanout, bulky furniture like this is often the first to go—and for good reason.
Letting it go isn’t just about reclaiming space. That oversized armchair could become a cozy reading spot for a student, and a sturdy bed frame might finally give a family a restful night’s sleep. Donating furniture helps others feel more at home and keeps useful items out of the landfill.
Before donating, make sure each piece is clean and in good shape. Many local charities and donation centers are happy to accept furniture and pass it along to families building a fresh start.
5. Books You’ve Already Read
Books bring character to a home, but they sure can take over every corner. Maybe it’s that mystery you flew through on vacation, a self-help book from years ago, or a biography that left its mark. Instead of letting them sit and collect dust, why not pass them along?
Donating books is a simple way to spark new ideas and adventures for others. Schools, libraries, and community programs are always in need—especially for those who don’t have easy access to reading material.
So, whether it’s a children’s story or a how-to guide, your old books could open doors for someone else.
Why not take a few minutes to scan your shelves and pull out the ones you’re done with? You’ll make space in your home and share the joy of reading with someone who could really use it.
#3 Tips for Donating Items During a Cleanout
Before you load up that donation box, make sure the items you’re giving are truly helpful. Here’s what to check for each type of donation:
Only Donate Items in Good Condition
If it’s broken, stained, ripped, or missing parts, it’s probably better off recycled or tossed. Ask yourself: Would I give this to a friend?
Clean Everything First
Wash clothes, wipe down furniture, and sanitize kitchenware and electronics. Because clean items are more likely to be accepted and appreciated.
Check Donation Guidelines
Each organization has different needs. You can always visit their website or call ahead to see what they accept and what they don’t.
Avoid Overwhelming Donation Centers
Don’t donate items that are clearly unusable or require repair unless the center explicitly accepts them for that purpose.
Bundle Items When Possible
Group similar items together—like kitchen tools, books, or baby clothes—to make sorting easier for the charity.
Label Boxes or Bags Clearly
If you’re donating multiple types of items, label them so that the volunteers can quickly identify what’s inside.
Don’t Forget About Pickups
Some charities offer free pickup services, especially for large donations like furniture. It’s a great way to give without the hassle.
Keep It Seasonal
Donating items that match the current season (like coats in winter or school supplies in summer) can meet more urgent needs.
Be Respectful
Donations should help, not create extra work. If something is trash, don’t pass it off as a donation.
#4 FAQs
Are donations tax-deductible?
In many cases, yes. Keep a detailed list and ask the organization for a receipt to claim deductions during tax season.
Can I donate partially used household products like cleaning supplies or toiletries?
Most places won’t accept partially used items for hygiene and safety reasons. Stick to sealed, unused goods unless the organization specifies otherwise.
How do I know if a charity is legitimate?
Check for transparency, reviews, and nonprofit status. You can visit websites like Charity Navigator or GuideStar to help verify them.
#5 The Bottom Line – A Cleanout With Purpose
Clearing out your home doesn’t have to end with bags piled by the curb. Donating items like clothes, electronics, kitchenware, furniture, and books gives your stuff a second life—and a chance to make someone’s day. Each item you pass along can bring comfort, joy, or a fresh start to someone else, all while helping you enjoy a more open, peaceful space.
A cleanout isn’t just about getting rid of clutter—it’s about turning your extra into someone else’s enough. So next time you’re sorting through your things, think of it as a chance to spread a little kindness, one donation at a time.
