When getting ready for a big move, one important responsibility for a family or couple is to pack – and while doing so, decide whether certain unwanted items could potentially be donated to a good cause.
Sometimes, donating these unwanted items might not come with much of an extra cost, in the case of small items that can be dropped off close by.
In other cases, heavier items such as furniture might need van transport if you do not have the means to personally transport them.
If you are looking to donate items, or are even considering whether you should sell other items, this article will guide you on what you can or cannot donate, as well as suitable recipients in Manchester and surrounds that you could consider.
Let’s start this guide with important tips to remember when you start sorting out items.
Starting the process: Separating usable unwanted items from clutter or junk
As you go room to room and start sorting through items, it is important that when you identify which unwanted items are still usable and can be donated, and which items are junk.
Also, in some cases, you could consider recycling, if you for instance have stacks of paper that can be moved to a recycling facility.
One thing that you need to remember is that your donations are not meant as a means to get rid of rubbish, but rather to donate items that can be used for a good cause.
Do consider whether there are some items that you haven’t used in the past four years, or if there are any items that are only going to stand and gather dust in your new home.
Then, decide whether you want to sell any of your belongings as a means to fund your move, or if you want to allow a charity shop the opportunity to make much-needed money through your donations.
Which items can you consider donating?
Any items that are still in good condition can be considered from the following list:
- Shoes
- Clothing
- Home appliances
- Books
- Furniture
- Kitchenware
- Toys
- Linen
- Antiques
- Books, DVDs, and CDs
- Electronics (but consider that some charity shops might not accept these)
- Baby items (including strollers, cots, and carriers)
Which items should you not donate?
Some items might not be suited for donation, such as the following:
- Paints and chemicals
- Weapons and firearms
- Broken appliances
- Expired food
- Damaged electronics
- Furniture that is damaged or that cannot be restored or reupholstered
- Gas appliances
- Medical devices
- Old bedding and overused towels
- Dirty clothing or clothing that is not suitable to be worn
Which items should you consider for recycling?
If you have unwanted items that cannot be donated, but are still suitable for recycling purposes, consider items from the below list. These are some examples that could qualify for recycling, but remember to check with the recycling facility you have in mind what they would accept:
- Old newspapers
- Old magazines
- Unwanted papers
- Glass
- Plastic bottles
- Cardboard boxes
- Plastic lids
What should you do with waste?
In some cases, a removals company might offer waste collection and removal services.
Garden waste, compost, and other waste items can then easily be removed, ensuring these elements are not in the way when your removal truck arrives.
Which charities and other organisations can you consider for donations in Manchester and surrounds?
Want to donate unwanted items for a good cause? Here are some charities in the Manchester area to consider.
British Heart Foundation (BHF)
The British Heart Foundation accepts several donation items, such as anything from books to fridges, that they can sell in their charity shops or even online.
You have the option of dropping items off yourself, but you can also use the nationwide pick-up service to collect furniture, homeware, and more.
Furthermore, they have another option available for house clearance, which can be especially convenient if you are getting rid of several items, including those in garages and sheds.
If you are interested in donating to the BHF, be sure to check which items they do not accept, especially those that might not be safe for use.
Mustard Tree
Situated on 110 Oldham Road, Mustard Tree is dedicated to preventing poverty and homelessness.
This organisation offers the option of either dropping off smaller items during opening hours, or getting in touch to pick up bigger items.
Collections can include large furniture items, bedroom items, and large food donations of non-perishable items.
To check whether certain items would be accepted, get in touch with Mustard Tree at 0161 228 7331.
St Ann’s Hospice Ardwick Furniture Shop
St Ann’s offers free furniture collections for items that people would like to donate to their second-hand shop.
Other items that they also accept include clothes, jewellery, and electrical items.
However, some of the items they do not accept are damaged, ripped or stained items, or furniture that cannot be reused.
Age UK
Age UK has several shops available throughout Manchester. This charity is dedicated to the well-being of older people in Manchester, and those individuals who would like to support their shops can get in touch for donation opportunities.
Also, this charity offers a free collection service for heavier items, which you can arrange by phoning 0161 637 2337.
How should you pack the items that you are donating?
If you are dropping items off personally, you must take the same care of packing boxes as you would for items that you are moving to your new home.
Keep the following tips in mind:
- Before you drop off items, it might be best to call in advance to ensure you know what store or depot opening times are and that you do not risk bringing items to a store that you will only need to take back or even remove from boxes.
- Only use sturdy boxes that a carefully labelled – this will make it easier for stores to check which donations they have in stock.
- Do not pack boxes to the point that they are too heavy or could break easily. This is for your own convenience as well as for those individuals who are managing charity shops.
- Checked beforehand whether a charity accepts electrical goods, as there might be some items that they might not accept or have specific preferences for.
- If you are donating clothing, make sure that all items are clean and neatly packaged.
Support where you can
Whether you sell your unwanted items and donate the funds, or consider other ways that you can dispose of items to support your local community, you mustn’t disregard the value of how your unwanted items can help raise money for those who need it most.
Consider which local shop you would like to donate items to, and show your support by giving items that can still provide value in the future.
FAQ
Why should I consider donating items?
Items that are still in good condition can be sold and generate vital funds for worthwhile causes.
These donations can ensure that items get a second life in various settings, such as old age homes or in homes for those who are rebuilding their lives.
Many families could benefit from donations, and enjoy how various items make a difference in their lives.
Can I take all my donations to one charity?
It is best to phone in advance to ensure that all of the items you would like to get rid of are accepted by a charity shop.
For instance, some might accept jewellery while others might not.
Do I need to drop all donated items on my own?
Some charities might offer a free collection for heavier items, such as washing machines or big and bulky items.
Can I donate vintage clothes to a local shop?
Provided that the items are still in good condition and can still be worn, they could likely be accepted.
Can I donate soft furnishings?
If you want to donate carpets, curtains or other similar items in good condition, these items could potentially be considered for donation.
Are there any items that I will not be able to donate?
Spoiled food items that have expired, broken appliances or any other items that are not hygienic or cannot be used anymore will not likely be accepted.
Can I donate musical instruments?
If the items you have in mind for donations can still be used and are in good working condition, they could be donated to the shop of your choosing.
Instruments can be a precious gift and a treat for those organisations geared towards improving the lives of their communities.
Can I donate items designed for use by children?
Preloved clothing that is still in good condition, as well as toys and books are always welcome.
However, some children items, such as booster seats or used mattresses, might not be ideal for donation.
This includes baby bottles or items no longer suited for use.
Charities might not accept more children items, so check in first if they have any specific needs.
Do I need to pay a charity to pick up large items that I want to donate?
Many charities provide a free collection service for large items and appliances – so, check whether this would be possible.
How do charities benefit from donations?
Gift Aid is one of the avenues where organisations can claim basic rate tax back from every pound that has been donated.
Therefore, Gift Aid can ensure that what you donate goes beyond just being a monthly donation.
Where can I find charity shops in the Manchester area?
Have a look above at our list of potential organisations, which are all great options to consider. All donations can make a difference, so consider which items still have future use – or can fund initiatives in the community.
Ensure that you contact a charity – either via phone or email – to ensure that the items you want to donate will be accepted.
How do people benefit from making donations before moving?
Instead of moving with clutter or items that are only going to add bulk to your new home, you can save money on moving costs when you make donations and give new life to your still usable items.
Also, you can save time, as you will easily be able to sort out clutter at home and make it easy to see what they want to give away or want to sell.
Every donation can make a difference, so consider how you can help to fund important causes in the UK.
