Today we’re talking through 15 things you can declutter and donate to make a positive impact and spread JOY this holiday season. Not only will you clear space, but you’ll also be giving an incredible gift to someone who could use it.
1. Craft Supplies
If you’re holding onto unused craft supplies, now is the time to declutter them. Donate old yarn, paints, scrapbooking paper, or stickers to a nursing home. Residents spend a lot of time waiting, and engaging in activities like knitting, crocheting, or painting can brighten their days so donating unused supplies could give them a much-needed creative outlet.
2. Puzzles
If you have old puzzles lying around, nursing homes are a great place to donate them. Puzzles encourage social interaction as residents often work on them together in activity rooms.
3. Share the Joy of Reading
Nursing home residents love to read. If you have gently used books, consider donating them to your local facility. You’ll provide comfort and entertainment to someone who may otherwise feel lonely. If you have children’s books – look into your local daycare or hospital and see if they accept donations – another great way to share the joy of reading with others!
4. Winter Coats
If you’ve recently decluttered your winter coats, now is the perfect time to donate them to homeless and women’s shelters. These shelters are always in need of warm clothing to keep their residents safe during the cold winter months.
5. Boots, Scarves, and Mittens
Along with coats, shelters are also in desperate need of winter boots, scarves, mittens, and hats. Go through your closets and donate any extra outerwear to make someone’s winter warmer.
6. Backpacks
Backpacks are an item many homeless shelters need but may not ask for. People staying in shelters often carry all their belongings with them each day, and a sturdy backpack can make a world of difference.
7. Unopened Lotions and Toiletries
We often receive scented lotions or bath products as gifts and don’t use them. These items are perfect for donating to women’s shelters, where many residents come with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Make their holidays brighter with these thoughtful donations.
8. Socks
Declutter your sock drawer and donate warm socks to shelters. Fuzzy socks, especially, are a great way to help those in need stay warm during the cold season. Even gently used socks in good condition can be a valuable donation.
9. Care Kits
Consider putting together care kits with items like gloves, hats, socks, hygiene products, and snacks to donate to shelters. These kits can provide comfort and essential supplies to those who need them most.
10. Pet Food and Toys
If your pet didn’t like a certain type of food, or if you have gently used toys your pet no longer plays with, consider donating them to an animal shelter. Shelters often welcome these donations to help make the animals’ stay more comfortable.
11. Towels and Blankets
Animal shelters are always in need of old towels, blankets, and sheets to create cozy beds for their animals. Instead of letting these items gather dust, donate them to provide comfort to furry friends in need.
12. Cleaning Supplies
Many of us have extra cleaning supplies, especially after stocking up during the pandemic. Animal shelters are always in need of supplies like wipes, disinfectants, and cleaning solutions to keep their facilities clean and safe for their animals.
13. Kids’ Clothes and Toys
As your children outgrow their clothes and toys, consider donating them to a local thrift store. Many families rely on these stores for affordable holiday gifts and clothing. Your gently used items could be a blessing for another family.
14. Unopened Gifts
If you have unopened toys or items that you know won’t be used, donate them to gift drives (eg. Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, etc.). These donations ensure that children in need receive new and exciting gifts during the holiday season.
15. Holiday Décor
As you pull out your holiday decorations, take stock of what you no longer use. If you have leftover décor you’re not using, donate it to a thrift store where others can purchase it for a fraction of the cost, brightening their homes for the holidays.
Decluttering not only helps you clear your home but also provides an incredible opportunity to give back to your community. Whether it’s a nursing home, a shelter, or an animal rescue, your donations will make a huge difference in someone’s life.
Stay organized and inspired as you declutter and donate this season! Download the FREE Decluttering Checklist here!
Want to learn how to SIMPLIFY this Christmas? – LISTEN HERE for ways to have an amazing holiday season, without the stress and overwhelm that usually comes with it!
