When it comes to donating kids' clothes, it's important to know what items most donation centers don’t accept. While your intention is kind and generous, certain clothes may not be suitable for donation due to safety, hygiene, or quality concerns.
If you're sorting through your child's outgrown clothes and wondering what to do with them, here’s a quick guide to what typically can't be donated—and a better way to pass them on.
1. Undergarments
Undergarments like kids' underwear and socks are generally not accepted by donation centers. These items are considered personal and must be purchased new due to hygiene concerns. If your child has outgrown unopened socks or never-worn underwear, check with your local shelter—but in most cases, these aren’t accepted.
2. Torn or Stained Clothing
While it's totally normal for toddler and baby clothes to show signs of wear, items that are heavily stained, torn, or damaged will likely be turned away. Donation centers prioritize gently used kids' clothes—items that are clean, intact, and ready to wear.
3. Recalled Items
Before you donate anything, check if it has been recalled. This includes children’s pajamas that don’t meet fire safety standards or items with unsafe drawstrings or snaps. You can check for recalls here.
4. Outdated or Costume-Only Fashion
Most donation centers want to provide clothes that kids can wear to school, daycare, or the playground. While fashion trends aren’t everything, centers may decline outdated styles or costume-like clothing that doesn’t meet modern comfort or fit standards.
5. Unwashed Clothing
No matter how stylish it is, if it's dirty—it’s not getting accepted. Donation centers do not wash clothes, and soiled items can’t be distributed for health and safety reasons. Be sure to wash all items before donating, even if they’ve just been sitting in a bin.
So... What Can You Do With Outgrown Clothes?
If you're looking to responsibly pass on gently-used baby clothes or toddler outfits that are clean and wearable, but you're tired of donation rules or resale site chaos—there’s a better way.
Try a clothing swap with The Little Loop.
Instead of guessing what's allowed, we make it easy: just send your outgrown clothes to another parent, and you’ll get a box in return with the size and gender you need. It’s simple, sustainable, and community-powered.
Order Your Little Loop Bag Today
Ready to pass along your outgrown clothes the easy way?
Click below to order your Little Loop Bag, and we’ll match you with a real family who needs the sizes you’re sending.
Together, we’re building a loop that’s better for parents, better for budgets, and better for the planet.
