50 Items That You Should Not Donate to Thrift Stores

42. Things That Can Grow Mold

Let's get one thing straight: thrift stores aren't equipped to deep clean and sanitize every single item that comes through their doors. They've got a lot on their plate already, like deciding what's worth selling and putting stuff on the shelves. So, please don't donate items that are prone to growing mold. It's tough for thrift stores to prevent mold growth, especially if an item has been hanging out in a damp environment.

Things like dehumidifiers and tea kettles are notorious for producing moisture and growing mold. Plus, secondhand appliances can be a little sketchy when it comes to cleanliness, so many thrift stores won't take 'em. And let's not forget about breast pumps. Thrift stores can't clean milk residue out of those suckers, so they're a no-go. If you've got these items and they've been collecting dust in your basement or garage, there's a good chance they've got some mold growing. Or at least some moisture hangin' around, waiting to turn into mold. Don't pass your moldy problems on to someone else, deal with 'em yourself!