what to do with random toiletry items?

[marinak1977]

I have (and I got more in my stocking) random beauty items - lotions, shower gels, bath soaks, scrubs, you name it. I don't use much - and I am pretty particular about what I do use. I feel bad throwing things away, but I also don't want stuff sitting around so that I might get around to using it. I'd love suggestions on what I could do with all that clutter!

[Lillitu]

If they are unopened, why not donate them to a battered women's shelter? I bet they would love to have them.

[Teensy]

If unopened, you could also give to Meals on Wheels to give to one of their recipients, or ask around if any of your elementary school teachers would like them.  My kid's teachers are always looking for little donations for the "prize boxes" at school.

[marinak1977]

A lot of those are the "mini" lotion packages  -they aren't really open, but they aren't sealed either. Can I donate those?

[HappyMommy2]

Freecycle.  I have very sensitive skin, so I had several creams/lotions that were opened and used only once.  The lady was thrilled to get them.

[sunnysandiegan]

My DD's elementary school has two "adult only" bathrooms (for women) and I take any open hand or face toiletries to one or both and leave them there. There are mostly female teachers and staff and they all seem to love whatever I drop off. The school provides the most basic stuff, so these are a major step up. I have taken other toiletries that wouldn't be used at school to the teacher's lounge with a note. Those are snapped up quickly....open or not, small or large.

[clutterwarrior]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lillitu 

If they are unopened, why not donate them to a battered women's shelter? I bet they would love to have them.

The Ronald McDonald houses at hospitals also can use them for parents who have stay there while their children are seriously ill.

http://rmhc.org/how-you-can-help/other-ways-to-get-involved/toy-and-food-donation-program/

[Graceie]

I donate all that stuff to a womens shelter they love it

[marinak1977]

Graceie - which woman's shelter do you donate to? I looked up a few and they all specifically ask for full sized toilettries (I have some, but also some smaller sized ones (the mini sizes from Bath and Bodywork)
I'm near Seattle so I'd love to know where I can take these.
Thank you!

[Graceie]

the union Gospel mission

[marinak1977]

Thanks!

[zebra15]

Around here you can also dontate them to the Food Bank.  You would be amazed what isnt covered on foodstamps and getting a little extra in a food box really makes a family happy!