Does Goodwill Take Lawn Mowers – Donation Guide

The search for sustainable and environmentally friendly ways to dispose of used items is a challenge that we all face today. As an experienced waste management consultant, I frequently field questions about where to donate used household items, including lawn mowers.

The query “Does Goodwill take lawn mowers?” is one that arises often. To put it simply, the answer is a bit more complex than a straightforward yes or no.

TL;DR: The acceptance of lawn mowers or other large items largely depends on the specific Goodwill location. It’s always best to call ahead and confirm.

Understanding Goodwill’s Donation Policies

Goodwill is a well-known nonprofit organization that sells donated goods to fund job training and employment services. However, donation policies can vary greatly among different Goodwill locations.

While some Goodwill stores do accept lawn mowers, others may not. Various factors, such as space constraints, safety considerations, and local regulations, can influence a store’s acceptance policies. As such, I recommend contacting your local Goodwill store to verify their specific donation policies before hauling your lawn mower over.

The Environmental Footprint of Lawn Mowers

Why does all this matter? Well, lawn mowers, especially gasoline-powered ones, can have a significant environmental impact. As climate scientists have alluded to, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that gas mowers represent up to 5% of US air pollution. Furthermore, a Swedish study suggested that one hour of lawn mowing can produce the same amount of carbon emissions as a 100-mile car trip.

Donating a used, functional lawn mower instead of sending it to the landfill is a small but meaningful step toward environmental sustainability. Not only does it extend the life of the mower, reducing the demand for new ones, but it also supports Goodwill’s mission of promoting workforce development.

What To Do If Goodwill Doesn’t Accept Your Lawn Mower

If you find that your local Goodwill doesn’t accept lawn mowers, don’t fret. There are still options for you to consider.

• Other Charities: Organizations such as The Salvation Army or Habitat for Humanity ReStores may accept lawn mowers. Again, it’s best to call ahead.
• Recycling Centers: If your lawn mower is broken beyond repair, a local recycling center may take it. Many components of a mower, including the metal and plastic parts, can be recycled.
• Resale or Free-cycle: Platforms like Craigslist, eBay, or Freecycle allow you to sell or give away items to people who can use them.
• Local Disposal Programs: Some local waste management facilities run programs for the collection and safe disposal of lawn and garden equipment.

It might be worthwhile to consider these alternative options, as they also promote sustainable practices and help to reduce the environmental impact of lawn mowers.

Lawn Mower Maintenance and Donations

In the scenario where your local Goodwill or other charitable organizations accept lawn mowers, it’s important to make sure your donation is in a usable condition.

A mower that doesn’t function or requires substantial repairs may end up as a burden rather than a benefit to the recipient organization.

A useful suggestion would be to give your lawn mower a thorough once-over before considering it for donation:

• Cleanliness: Clean off any grass clippings or dirt that may have accumulated on the mower.
• Functionality: Check if the mower starts properly and runs smoothly. A quick test run can ensure this.
• Sharpness: The blades of the mower should be sharp enough for effective cutting.

Doing these small checks not only increases the chances of your lawn mower being accepted but also extends its usability for the next owner.

Donating Lawn Mowers: A Win-Win Situation

I can’t emphasize enough the benefits of donating items like lawn mowers. Not only do you free up space in your home and keep the mower out of the landfill, but your donation also supports the job training and employment programs run by Goodwill and similar organizations.

Moreover, the person who ends up with your mower gets a much-needed tool at a reduced cost, which can be particularly beneficial to low-income households. It’s a win-win situation all around.

 

Selling Your Lawn Mower

In cases where donation or recycling isn’t viable, selling your used lawn mower might be an option. Websites like eBay or Facebook Marketplace can be suitable platforms for this. Not only will you earn a few bucks, but you’ll also ensure that the lawn mower is put to further use rather than ending up in a landfill.

It might be worthwhile to consider giving your lawn mower a thorough cleaning and maybe even a quick tune-up before listing it, to maximize its appeal to potential buyers.

Start by listing your mower on:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• Offer Up
• And any other local classified ads

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether or not Goodwill takes lawn mowers is dependent on the specific location. If donating to Goodwill is not an option, there are several other ways to ensure your used lawn mower is disposed of responsibly.

By choosing to donate, recycle, or sell your old lawn mower, you’re not just decluttering your home – you’re also contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly world.

FAQs

Does Goodwill accept lawn mowers?

It depends on the specific location. Contact your local Goodwill to confirm their donation policies.

Why donate or recycle my lawn mower?

Lawn mowers can have a significant environmental impact. Donating, recycling, or selling your lawn mower extends its lifespan and helps reduce this impact.

What if I can’t donate my lawn mower to Goodwill?

There are alternatives. Other charities, recycling centers, online resale or freecycle platforms, and local disposal programs may accept your lawn mower.

Remember, the goal is not just to rid yourself of an unwanted item, but to do so in a way that benefits others and our planet.