“Earth Day should last all year!” a Tip Tuesday reader sent me!  I wholeheartedly agree! Earth Day shouldn't be just a single day but a call to action. Let's dive into some options to donate and recycle MORE items that might otherwise end up in a landfill!

Mattresses:

If you are lucky enough to live in Connecticut, Rhode Island or California ByeBye Mattress will recycle yours!  If not, do your best to see if your local services will recycle them or if your local charities will accept them. 

Paperbacks:

Operation Paperback connects people with paperbacks to donate to those serving in US Armed Forces worldwide.  It’s easy to become a volunteer and send yours to appreciative service members.

Plastic Toys:

Your kids have outgrown them but you know that they still have plenty of life left.  What do you do?  Look for a Second Chance Toy drop off location near you. Note: they do not take plush toys, so what about the….

Stuffed Animals:

These can be difficult to donate but readers note that many senior/assisted living centers welcome gently used stuffed animals and baby dolls to give to their elderly residents.  National chapters of SAFE (Stuffed Animals for Emergencies) also accept plush toys (and more!) and distribute them to local children in need.

Furniture: 

So much solid wood “brown” furniture still have years of use but are impossible to sell when no longer needed.  Check out Furniture Bank which can connect you with charities near you that are happy to take your donation and give them to families who are being rehomed.

Take these resources and use them! By exploring these donation and recycling options, you can give your unwanted items a second life, reduce waste, and contribute to a greener future.

PS: Readers Tips! Thanks to the readers who sent these suggestions!

•  A reader mentioned that Walmart stores also take eyeglass donations which then go to the Lions for distribution.
•  Goodwill locations also take textile donations that are not resalable. As always, boldly label these as “RAGS NOT FOR SALE” and keep them separate from usable items.
•  And if you are lucky enough to live in a location they service, Ridwell’s is a wonderful service that picks up hard to recycle items from your doorstep!