Donating items is an excellent way to declutter your home while making a difference in someone else’s life. However, it’s important to make sure that your items are germ-free. After all, the last thing you want to do is pass on bacteria and germs to someone. Fortunately, we’ve compiled the best ways to sanitize items before donating them below.
Clothes
Clothes are useful donations, but they can also be some of the dirtiest. By washing with hot water and a liquid laundry detergent, you can help kill bacteria, mold, and parasites that may linger on clothing. And if you have access to a dryer or iron, using those appliances can provide an extra layer of sanitization.
Toys
During the holiday season, donating toys is a wonderful gesture that can bring joy to children in need. However, it’s important to ensure the toys are safe and sanitary. Before donating, take the time to carefully inspect each toy and check for any broken or small parts that can be choking hazards.
Afterward, sanitize the toys thoroughly, using mild soap and water or a disinfectant spray. Remember to let the toys dry completely before packing them for donation.
Books
Before sharing books with others, please clean them thoroughly. Ensure the covers are free of dust or grime by using a disinfectant spray or wipe. You should also allow your books to dry before passing them to their new home. If any of your books have a musty smell, don’t worry—there’s a simple solution. Place them in the sunlight for a few hours to eliminate any odors.
Furniture
Charities always need furniture donations, but before you drop off your unwanted pieces, ensure they are clean. Giving your furniture a thorough clean will remove germs and bacteria and make it more presentable for donation.
The best way to sanitize furniture items before donating is to use a specialized cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth to remove any stains or marks. Next, use a disinfectant spray to clean the surface. You should also make sure that the furniture is completely dry before donating it to prevent damage or mold growth.
Electronics
Prepare your electronics for donation by wiping them down with a disinfectant solution. Additionally, use a soft brush to remove any accumulated dirt or dust. If you are unsure about how to clean a specific device properly, reach out to the manufacturer to inquire about safe-to-use specialized cleaning solutions.
Now that you know how to clean a wide variety of donation items, you can give your old items a new home confidently and safely. Besides donating personal items, you can make charitable contributions with new things that you don’t need to clean! At Backpacks USA, we have wholesale winter gear that can help someone in need. Browse our website for practical, affordable donation items today.