Charity bins are a fantastic way to give your old clothes, shoes, and household items a second life—but not every bin you come across is equal. Before dropping your donations off, take a moment to check a few important details. Look for clear signage that shows which charity operates the bin. Genuine bins will display the charity’s full name, logo, and contact information. If the bin looks worn out, has missing labels, or the branding seems vague (like “Helping People” with no real organisation listed), it’s worth being cautious—some bins are operated by for-profit companies rather than true charities.

Also, check the condition around the bin. Overflowing bins or piles of rubbish might mean the bin isn’t being managed properly, and your donations could end up as landfill instead of helping someone. A good rule of thumb: if a bin is clean, well-labelled, and linked to a charity you recognise, it’s probably a great place to give your items a new home.