Top 10 Things to Declutter in January and Donate to Goodwill in 2026

January is one of the best times of year to declutter your home. After the holidays, many people are looking for a fresh start, more space, and simpler routines. Decluttering in January 2026 not only helps you reset your home for the new year, but it also creates an opportunity to give back by donating to Goodwill.

When you donate to Goodwill in 2026, your gently used items help fund job training, employment services, and career support programs right here in Wayne and Holmes Counties. If you’re planning a January cleanout, here are the top 10 things to declutter and donate to Goodwill.

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Clothes, Decorations, & Appliances

1. Clothing You No Longer Wear - If you didn’t wear it in 2025, chances are you won’t wear it in 2026. Gently used clothing, shoes, coats, and accessories are always in demand at Goodwill stores and help support local job training programs.

2. Holiday Decorations and Seasonal Items - As you pack away holiday decor, take note of what stayed in storage. Donating unused seasonal decorations gives these items a second life and helps shoppers find affordable options year-round.

3. Small Kitchen Appliances - January is a popular time to upgrade kitchen gadgets. Blenders, coffee makers, slow cookers, and air fryers that are clean and in working condition make great Goodwill donations.

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Media, Toys, Games, & More

4. Books, DVDs, and Media - Decluttering shelves can instantly free up space. Books, DVDs, CDs, and records are always welcome at Goodwill and provide affordable entertainment and learning opportunities.

5. Toys, Games, and Puzzle - After the holidays, many children outgrow toys quickly. Donating gently used toys and games helps families shop on a budget while keeping usable items out of landfills.

6. Home Decor and Wall Art - If your style has changed, donate picture frames, lamps, mirrors, and decorative accents you no longer love. These items are popular finds in Goodwill stores.

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Sports Equipment, Electronics, Linens, & Supplies

7. Fitness Equipment and Workout Gear - New Year fitness goals often mean upgraded gear. Yoga mats, weights, resistance bands, and athletic wear are excellent donation items when gently used.

8. Electronics and Accessories - Old keyboards, speakers, small electronics, and extra cords can be donated. Be sure to remove personal data from devices before dropping them off.

9. Office and School Supplies - January decluttering often includes home offices. Binders, backpacks, organizers, and desk accessories are helpful items for students, job seekers, and families.

10. Linens and Household Textiles - Sheets, blankets, towels, and curtains in good condition are often overlooked donation items that are in high demand at Goodwill stores.

Why and Where to Donate to Goodwill in 2026

Donating to Goodwill is more than a way to declutter your home. When you donate in 2026, your gently used items help fund job training, employment services, and career support programs that empower individuals right here in Wayne and Holmes Counties.

Every donation supports people working toward independence, new skills, and meaningful employment, while also keeping usable items out of local landfills. It’s a simple action that creates lasting community impact.

Ready to donate? You can drop off your items at any Goodwill donation center in Wayne or Holmes County. Our donation centers make it easy to turn your January cleanout into opportunities for neighbors across our community.

Start 2026 with purpose. Declutter your home, donate to Goodwill, and make a difference close to home. To learn more or donate today, visit GoodwillConnect.org.

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