Does Goodwill Accept Blinds?

If you’re thinking of replacing your old blinds with new ones, you might be wondering what to do with the ones you no longer need. Can you donate them to a charity like Goodwill? Or do you have to throw them away or recycle them? The answer is yes, you can donate your used blinds to Goodwill, as long as they are in good condition and meet their donation guidelines. In this post, we’ll explain why donating your blinds to Goodwill is a good idea and how to do it properly.

Goodwill accepts used blinds that are clean, safe and resellable. They do not accept blinds that are broken, stained, faded or have cords that pose a strangulation hazard for children. Donating your blinds to Goodwill helps them generate revenue for their programs and services that support people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. It also helps the environment by reducing waste and saving resources.

Why Donate Your Blinds to Goodwill?

Goodwill is a nonprofit organization that provides job training, employment placement, education and other support services to people who face challenges in finding work. They operate more than 3,300 stores across the U.S. and Canada, where they sell donated items at affordable prices. By donating your blinds to Goodwill, you are helping them achieve their mission of enhancing the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families.

Donating your blinds to Goodwill also benefits the environment by diverting them from landfills and conserving natural resources. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans generate about 292.4 million tons of municipal solid waste per year, of which only 69 million tons are recycled or composted. By donating your blinds instead of throwing them away, you are reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions, saving energy and water, and preserving raw materials.

How to Donate Your Blinds to Goodwill?

Before you donate your blinds to Goodwill, make sure they are in good condition and meet their donation guidelines. Here are some steps to follow:

• Clean your blinds: Use a vacuum cleaner, a feather duster or a microfiber cloth to remove dust and dirt from the slats and cords. You can also use a mild detergent or vinegar diluted with water to wipe away stains or grease. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach as they can damage the material or cause discoloration.
• Check your blinds: Inspect your blinds for any defects or damages that might make them unsafe or unsellable. For example, check if the slats are broken, torn, bent or warped; if the cords are frayed, tangled or missing; if the brackets are loose or missing; if the fabric is faded, ripped or stained; etc. If your blinds have any of these issues, do not donate them to Goodwill.
• Pack your blinds: If possible, pack your blinds in their original boxes or containers. If not, use sturdy cardboard boxes or plastic bags that can protect them from damage during transportation. Label the boxes or bags with the type and size of the blinds. For example, “Wooden Blinds 36×48” or “Fabric Roman Shades 24×36”. Secure the boxes or bags with tape or ties.
• Find a donation site: Use the Goodwill website (see Resources) to find a donation center or drop-off location near you. You can also call 1-800-GOODWILL (1-800-466-3945) for assistance. Some locations may offer pick-up service for large or bulky items.
• Get a receipt: When you donate your blinds to Goodwill, ask for a donation receipt that lists the items you donated and their estimated value. You can use this receipt for tax purposes if you itemize your deductions.

Final Thoughts

Donating your used blinds to Goodwill is a great way to give them a new life and support a worthy cause. By doing so, you are helping Goodwill provide opportunities for people who need them and protecting the environment by reducing waste and saving resources. Just make sure your blinds are clean, safe and resellable before you donate them and follow the steps above to do it properly.

Dale

Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.