Salvation Army Donation Excluded List: What You Need to Know

Donating to the Salvation Army is a great way to help those in need while decluttering your home. However, not all items are accepted due to safety, legal, or logistical reasons. The Salvation Army donation excluded list outlines items that they cannot accept. Understanding these restrictions helps ensure your donations are useful and can be successfully distributed.

Why Does the Salvation Army Have an Excluded List?

The Salvation Army’s exclusion list is primarily based on:

• Safety Concerns: Items that pose health risks or do not meet safety standards.
• Legal Restrictions: Certain products, such as recalled or hazardous items, cannot be sold or given away.
• Logistical Challenges: Some items are too large, heavy, or costly to transport.
• Common Items on the Salvation Army Donation Excluded List

Hazardous Materials

• Flammable liquids (gasoline, propane, paint, etc.)
• Chemicals, pesticides, or cleaning supplies
• Firearms, ammunition, and explosives

Recalled or Unsafe Items

• Baby cribs with drop-down sides
• Car seats that have been in an accident or are expired
• Used mattresses with stains or bedbugs
• Large appliances like refrigerators and stoves

Medical Equipment

• Prescription medications
• Used medical supplies (syringes, oxygen tanks, hospital beds)

Oversized or Heavy Items

• Pianos, pool tables, and large safes
• Construction materials (bricks, cement, lumber)
• Broken furniture or items needing major repairs

Electronics and Certain Household Items

• Tube televisions and outdated computers
• Non-working appliances
• Used carpets and rugs

What Happens to Items on the Excluded List?

If you bring items on the excluded list, the Salvation Army may:

• Direct you to alternative donation centers
• Recommend recycling or disposal options
• Inform you about local government hazardous waste programs

Alternative Ways to Donate Restricted Items

If your item is on the excluded list, consider these alternatives:

• Local Recycling Centers: Many cities have drop-off sites for hazardous materials, electronics, and mattresses.
• Other Charities: Organizations like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, and local shelters may accept items the Salvation Army does not.
• Selling or Repurposing: Items in good condition may be sold online or repurposed instead of being discarded.

Also read: Purple Heart Donation Pick Up: Everything You Need to Know

How to Ensure Your Donations Are Accepted

To avoid issues when donating:

1. Check the Salvation Army website for updates on their donation policy.
2. Call ahead to confirm if your items are acceptable.
3. Ensure items are in good condition, as broken or damaged items are often refused.

Conclusion

Understanding the Salvation Army donation excluded list ensures your contributions make a meaningful impact. Always check their guidelines before donating and explore alternative ways to give if your item isn’t accepted.

FAQs

What should I with items the Salvation Army won’t accept?

Consider donating to other charitdo ies, recycling, or selling items online.

Can I donate furniture to the Salvation Army?

Yes, but they only accept lightweight, undamaged furniture. Call ahead to confirm.

Do they take electronics?

Most locations do not accept tube TVs, outdated computers, or broken electronics.

Why won’t the Salvation Army accept mattresses?

Used mattresses pose hygiene concerns and are difficult to resell.

Does the Salvation Army pick up large donations?

Yes, but they only pick up certain large items in good condition.