These everyday items are always in high demand at thrift stores.
If your home is due for a major reset, you're likely already thinking of what you're going to get rid of. You may have a pile of things you're labeling for donations, but not everything you put in this box will be met with excitement. There are some things thrift stores want more than others. Curious as to what those items are? We were too, which is why we reached out to thrift store experts for the items they say are the most valuable. Here are the 10 items thrift stores with you'd donate more often.
Home Decor
Some of the most highly sought after items in any thrift store is home decor items. These piece have become more trendy in recent years with customers wanting to find gems that complement their spaces. Colette Kemery, the Director of Retail at The Place in Cumming, Georgia, says, "Items ranging from lamps to floral arrangements to decorative vases are things people always shop for. These help people who are looking to decorate on a budget. They also allow people to incorporate vintage pieces into their homes."
Quality Clothing For All Seasons
Second to home decor, quality clothing is another finds shoppers look for most at thrift stores. Lisa Rusyniak, the President & CEO at Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake, says one of the most valuable donations for any thrift store is gently used, everyday clothing that people can wear right away. When it comes to quality clothes people can wear year-round, she says specific items like jeans, jackets, sweaters, and professional attire are especially helpful because they serve people entering or reentering the workforce who need affordable options for interviews and new jobs.
Professional And Business Attire
Next to everyday clothing, professional and business attire are also appreciated at thrift stores. According to Rusyniak, work-ready clothing (thinks suits, dress shirts, blouses, slacks, skirts, and dress shoes) are incredibly important for them. "Many of the people we serve are preparing for job interviews or starting new positions, and having access to professional clothing can make a real difference in their confidence and success," she says. "When someone donates business attire that’s still in great shape, it directly supports individuals who are working to rebuild their careers and their independence."
Small Household Goods And Kitchenware
Vintage Corningware pieces are becoming a top thrift store score at the moment, but there are other kitchenware items that thrift stores want more routinely. "Items like pots, pans, dishes, glassware, utensils, and small kitchen appliances are always in high demand," says Rusyniak. "These everyday essentials are affordable options for people setting up a home for the first time or starting over after a major life transition. Donating these items allows thrift stores to provide practical, usable goods that people rely on daily, while also helping support the broader mission of funding community programs."
Appliances
Appliances are another kitchen item you can donate that Kemery says thrift stores are always looking for. "People are always looking for refrigerators and washing machines/dryers," she says. "Shoppers usually look for these items for setting up kids in college apartments." You can also donate small appliances too, like your Instant Pot, air fryer, or coffee machine.
Furniture
Whether it's to flip a piece or shop for budget-friendly necessities, furniture can be another big-ticket item at thrift stores. The key is that they need to be in good, working condition in order to be accepted. Rusyniak says, "Dressers, tables, chairs, and bookshelves are other donation pieces that thrift stores value highly. As long as the furniture is clean, functional, and in solid condition, it can quickly find a new home while supporting the nonprofit mission behind the store."
Electronics That Still Work
Some thrift store shoppers are on the hunt for vintage electronics, which is why our experts want you to consider donating them if they still work. Lamps, small audio systems, computer monitors, and other functional devices that make extremely useful donations. Plus, another perk is that donating them keeps them out of landfills that are quickly filling up.
Books, Games, And Educational Materials
Items like books, puzzles, board games, and educational materials are consistently popular with shoppers, Rusyniak says. "Families often look for affordable ways to entertain and educate their children, and donated books and games make that possible. These items also appeal to teachers, students, and lifelong learners who enjoy discovering quality reading materials at thrift stores."
Seasonal Items And Holiday Decorations
There's something special about finding a great thrift store seasonal find. Holiday ornaments, decorations, and themed household items are something else Rusyniak says customers love to browse. "These items tend to rotate quickly depending on the time of year and give shoppers an affordable way to celebrate holidays and seasonal traditions. Donations like these help keep thrift store inventories fresh and engaging for customers throughout the year," she says.
Accessories Like Handbags, Shoes, And Jewelry
As you go through your closet, accessories you no longer want can definitely be donated to your nearest thrift store. Rusyniak says that handbags, belts, scarves, jewelry, and shoes often attract strong interest from shoppers because they’re affordable ways to refresh a wardrobe.
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