Do op shops take electrical goods?

Yes! But also it depends.

Melbourne’s op shop scene is dominated by Savers, Vinnies and Salvos, who mostly have tag-and-test facilities so can accept electrical items in good working condition. 

Smaller op shops may take electricals off your hands, but it’s always best to ask before you dump a stereo in the donations bin. Unwanted donations generally become landfill, which is what we are trying to avoid, right? 

Do op shops take electrical goods? Exceptions

Most op shops who DO take electricals, prefer small, compact items that don’t have an expiry date on the technology. Computers, printers and scanners may be a hard no.

And they may not have space for large items like white goods and ovens.

Do op shops take electrical goods? Other great options

Rotary has groups in Melbourne’s West (WERN), East (EERN), and Inner (RIMERN), who accept appliances for people in need.

Givit is a great Not For Profit whereby you can offer your item free online for support organisations to view and accept. This includes electricals. 

You Matter supports women and children who have experienced family violence by supplying and setting up the contents of their new home. They accept small electricals for this initiative.

PARA does a similar job for Palestinian refugees, and is a worthy cause for electrical donations. 

Another idea is to list the item free on Facebook Marketplace or online community groups like Buy Nothing and Good Karma, and it will be collected from you by the lucky recipient. 

Do op shops take electrical goods? Not working

If the item is not functional, take it to your local council e-waste facility. Smaller items may be accepted at your library, or retail outlets like Officeworks. 

Do op shops take electrical goods? The short answer is yes, but it hugely depends on the size and preferences of the charity and the type of item. 

And bear in mind that buying every plug-in gadget that pops into your social media feed is contributing to demand and landfill. You would be much better off saving your money, or giving it directly to the aforementioned charities.

If you want to know where to donate other household items, check out this page.