- 1Wash thoroughly with hot water and pet-safe detergent
- 2Dry completely to prevent mold during storage/transport
- 3Remove excessive pet hair using lint roller or vacuum
- 4Check for damage - minor wear is acceptable for shelter use
- 5Remove removable covers from beds for easier washing
- 6Fold neatly or roll up to save space during transport
- 7Place in clean plastic bags or containers for transport to shelter
- Animal shelters and humane societies (highest need)
- Wildlife rehabilitation centers
- Veterinary clinic donation bins
- Rescue organizations and foster networks
- Goodwill/Salvation Army (resold, proceeds benefit charities)
- Textile recycling programs (damaged items)
- H&M garment collection (fabric items only)
Animal shelters have the highest need for bedding - kennels use 3-5 beds/blankets daily per animal. Even worn or stained items are valuable because shelters launder frequently and prioritize comfort over appearance. Large dog beds and waterproof items are especially needed.
Textile production uses 93 billion cubic meters of water annually. Donating pet bedding extends useful life by 3-7 years, preventing 45,000 tons annually from landfills. Synthetic pet beds take 30-40 years to decompose; natural fibers decompose faster but still represent wasted resources if not donated/recycled.
Accepted
- Pet beds of all sizes (orthopedic, standard, crate pads)
- Fleece blankets and throws
- Towels and washcloths
- Pet-specific blankets and mats
- Crate bedding and liners
- Waterproof bedding and pads
Not Accepted
- Items with mold or severe damage/tears
- Bedding infested with fleas or pests
- Items with strong chemical odors or stains (urine-soaked beyond cleaning)
- Bedding with exposed filling creating choking hazards
Estimated value: No cash value; donation tax deduction of $10-$75 depending on size and condition
Will shelters accept pet beds that are worn or stained?
Yes! Shelters understand that used bedding shows wear. As long as the bed is structurally intact (no ripped seams exposing filling, no mold), it's useful. Shelters launder all donations before use and prioritize animal comfort. Stains are normal and don't affect usability. Even beds you consider 'too worn' often have years of shelter life remaining.
Can I donate towels and blankets I used for my pet?
Absolutely - towels and blankets are among the most needed items! Shelters use them for: 1) Lining kennels, 2) Drying animals after baths, 3) Providing warmth, 4) Surgical recovery areas, 5) Transport and cleaning. Old bath towels, beach towels, fleece blankets, even ripped towels are valuable. Shelters go through dozens daily.
What should I do with a pet bed that's too damaged to donate?
For heavily damaged beds: 1) Cut open and remove stuffing - use as packaging material or donate stuffing to shelters for repairs, 2) If cover is washable, donate fabric to textile recycling or cut into cleaning rags, 3) Natural filling (cotton, wool) can be composted, 4) Foam can sometimes be recycled - check with local foam recycling programs, 5) Last resort: dispose in trash, but explore all recycling options first.
Do wildlife rehabilitation centers accept pet beds too?
Yes! Wildlife rehab centers use towels, blankets, and even pet beds for injured animals. They especially need: 1) Towels for cleaning and drying, 2) Fleece blankets (soft, warm, easy to clean), 3) Crate pads for transport kennels, 4) Heating pad covers. Contact local wildlife centers - many have wish lists. Some prefer new items for disease prevention, but most accept gently used.
Can I get a tax deduction for donating pet beds and blankets?
Yes, if you donate to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit shelter or rescue. Request a receipt with donation date and description. IRS allows fair market value deductions: small bed ($10-20), medium ($20-35), large ($35-75), blankets ($5-15), towels ($1-3 each). Keep receipts for tax filing. Donations over $250 require written acknowledgment from charity. Total all donations annually.