Goodwill Stores in ID, WA, and UT Will Not Accept These Items

Every year, it seems like families will have a weekend or week where they go through the apartment, the home, the garage, the shed, and clean everything out. Often, when this happens, it can lead to a garage sale, throwing things out, or donating to a place like Goodwill. It is always nice to get rid of things that have been sitting in storage and being unused for years and creating space, but getting rid of everything isn't always that easy. There are certain items that Goodwill will not accept in Idaho, Washington, and Utah. And below are the items you can't donate.

Fish Tanks

For anyone who has had a fish, a tough decision looms when they all die. Do you get more or get rid of the tank and move on? Taking the tank to Goodwill is not an option, and you will have to find another way to get rid of it. 

Smoke Detectors

For safety reasons, Goodwill will not accept smoke detectors. Few people would likely look to buy one at Goodwill anyway, as when someone needs one, it is best to get a brand new one. 

Swing Sets

Many parents love getting their children swing sets, but once the kids grow up, what should you do with them? Taking it to Goodwill is not the answer. 

Pianos and Organs

Not exactly sure why this one is on the list, but interesting enough, Goodwill will not accept pianos or organs when someone attempts to donate them. 

Used Lightbulbs

There are chemicals in lightbulbs that are not safe, and accepting a lightbulb that has been used would be odd. They can't sell a bulb without knowing how long it will last and how much it has been used. 

Futons

If you go shopping at Goodwill hoping to find a futon or bed for cheap, you are out of luck, as Goodwill does not accept them as donations. 

Damaged Furniture

Donating anything damaged seems disrespectful, but especially when it comes to donating damaged furniture. You will need to find another way to get rid of it. 

Food

For sanitary and health reasons, Goodwill will not accept food as a donation. If you are looking to donate food, there are plenty of places you can give it to help feed those in need, but Goodwill is not one of them. 

Bunk Beds

Similar to futons, Goodwill does not accept bunk beds. If you are hoping to get rid of one as your children upgrade to bigger beds, you will have to try to sell them on your own or take them elsewhere. 

Large Exercise Equipment

Goodwill will accept workout equipment, but will not take large exercise equipment such as ellipticals, treadmills, and stair climbers. If you want to donate weights or jump ropes, you can, but larger equipment will need to go to another place. 

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Many of these items can not be accepted due to liability risks, safety concerns, and other factors that lead to Goodwill declining the donation. While it often seems like they will accept everything and take it off your hands, that is not the case. To see more items you can't donate in Idaho, as well as in Washington and Utah, make sure to keep scrolling through the pictures below. Some of the items may surprise you.