How to Donate Your Child’s Old Toys

Are they really old? Chances are they are still in good condition, it’s just that little Jimmy or Stacy aren’t so little anymore!! Why keep all that clutter around when you know there’s a kiddy out there who would love that gently used Teddy?

First do a double check on recalls, and make sure nothings broken, especially on items that could potentially harm a child (e.g. bouncers).

Now get the plastic gloves on & start cleaning everything. Soft toys you can spot clean (if they can’t be thrown in the wash) and plastic or wood can be cleaned quickly with soapy water. Next a mild bleach & water solution to kill all the bugs (‘My baby doesn’t have cooties’, you scream!!! I know I know, but the lady collecting your donation box isn’t going to believe that when she sees Jimmy with his finger up his nose….). I like the Lysol disinfectant spray or wipes, very quick & easy to do.

Here are some useful links I’ve found:
How to Remove Stains on Vinyl Dolls
How to Clean a Fluffy Toy With Shampoo
8 ways to remove permanent marker stains

OK, now think where are the toys going to go … local churches, women’s shelters, playgroups at libraries, schools, daycares, hospitals, and of course charitable organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, St. Jude Hospital, etc

Call or e-mail ahead and make sure they are looking for the items you have. (Attaching a few photos to the e-mail, will save time in the long run.)

Bag them up and drop them off! Some organizations will come and collect them (good for big items).

Now start picking out colors for Jimmy’s room so you can turn it into a craft space when he leaves for college ;)!