Where Do I Take This??

One of the biggest challenges people face when decluttering is knowing what to do with

items once they leave their home. That’s where I come in! Below is a comprehensive list

of items I’ve successfully diverted from landfills for my clients, along with where to take

them:

1. Clothing, home décor, baby items (including cribs), unopened toiletries, and other usable goods – The Bridge STL

They provide dignified, individualized shopping experiences through their thrift boutique and warehouse for individuals and families referred by local organizations. Learn more: https://www.thebridgestl.org/about

2. Old or broken electronics – Spectrum Ecycle

If it plugs in, they’ll take it! Most items are accepted free of charge. View their pricing list (primarily for screens or items with chemicals): https://spectrumecycle.com/pricing/

3. Expired medications – Olivette City Center

Many police stations and some pharmacies also offer drop boxes for safe disposal.

4. Eyeglasses – Warby Parker, LensCrafters, and Pearle Vision

All three retailers have in-store drop boxes for old glasses.

5. Plastic grocery bags, dry-cleaning bags, or clean Ziploc bags – Schnucks

Drop boxes are located outside most stores.

6. Unexpired food – Operation Food Search

Donations can be dropped off 24/7. Learn more about their mission and who they support: https://www.operationfoodsearch.org/

7. Medical equipment – STLHELP

They accept walkers, wheelchairs, hospital beds, and more. Full list: https://www.stlhelp.org/equipmentdrives

8. Construction materials – Habitat ReStore

They accept lumber, tile, carpet, cabinetry, appliances, and more. Donation guidelines can be found here: https://www.habitatstl.org/restore/donation-guidelines/

9. Used motor oil or car batteries – AutoZone

They even offer a $10 merchandise credit for old batteries.

10. Expired car seats – Target

Current event: April 19–May 2, 2026, though they are typically held twice a year in April and October. Drop off your car seat near the entrance and receive a 20% off coupon for new baby gear. Details: https://www.target.com/c/car-seat-trade-in-event/-/N-v41nu

11. Old makeup – Nordstrom Rack (BEAUTYCYCLE program)

Drop boxes are located at store entrances. Learn more: https://press.nordstrom.com/static-files/23767662-9aca-4775-9a83-01870a3de3e0

12. Craft fabric, yarn, and sewing supplies – Charity Sharity

Materials are repurposed into items like shopping bags, knit hats, and baby blankets for local charities. https://www.charitysharity.org/

13. Textile recycling (ripped or unusable fabrics) – Remains LLC

Even items that can’t be donated elsewhere can often be recycled here. Find drop-off locations: https://www.remainsllc.com/individual-dropoff-details

14. Rechargeable batteries (and more) – Home Depot

Drop boxes are available for batteries, fluorescent bulbs, and plastic bags.

15. Fluorescent light bulbs – Home Depot

Fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs and tubes) contain mercury, a toxic metal that can damage the environment and human health. They should never go into household trash or recycling bins.

16. Used bath towels and sheets – The Brentwood APA

Donations help provide comfort for animals in their care who don’t care if there is a little stain here and there.

17. Old license plates – DMV

No appointment or line-waiting needed—staff can take them to be flattened and reused.

18. Sensitive documents (for shredding)- The Shred Truck

Find local free events here: https://mrcrecycling.net/electronics-recycling-events

Or schedule pickup/drop off: https://theshredtruck.com/

19. Paint, pesticides, other hazardous waste – St. Louis Household Hazardous Waste

Two locations available; reservations required. More info: https://www.hhwstl.com/

20. Books – St. Louis Book Fair

Multiple drop box locations available. Find one near you: https://www.stlouisbookfair.org/donate

21. American flags – Your local VFW

Outside mail or drop boxes specifically for flags are available, and the veterans make sure they are respectfully retired.

22. LEGOs – The Mini Fig Shop

They buy or offer store credit for unopened boxes, assembled sets, or loose bricks by the pound. https://www.theminifigshop.com/

As part of every session, I remove as many donations, recyclables, and trash items as

will fit in my car. Over the years, I’ve helped clients responsibly part with a lot—and I

always do my best to keep as much as possible out of the landfill.

What did I miss? I’d love to hear what items you’ve struggled to part with!

Contact Lily Now