Many times we sift through our old belongings when we are cleaning out our closet or cabinets, and realize that we have many items in good condition that we no longer need. If these items are in good enough shape, they can be donated to someone who needs it more than you, and they will be able to get the item for free or at a very reduced cost. Items that can be donated can be old clothing, kitchen appliances, old suitcases and handbags, and even furniture. You’d be surprised how much of an impact donating old items can have on the environment and on the lives of others.

Here are four reasons why you should consider donating your items today.

1. It helps the planet

If you care about the health and well-being of our planet, you can rest assured knowing that donating old items that you no longer need has a great impact on Mother Earth. Textiles make up 5 percent of all municipal trash, and many used clothes, household goods, and electronics are thrown into landfills. By choosing to recycle old coats and dresses as clothing donations for veterans, you are keeping them from ending up in these landfills and letting someone who needs them more than you have access to them. Each American throws about 70 pounds of clothing and other textiles away each year, and giving clothing donations for veterans can let someone else use those same items as secondhand clothing and keep it out of landfills.

2. It can save you some money

You can actually get a little bit of a tax break when you donate your items to a charity. Even small items, like a coffee pot, can be included as a tax write-off and can be worth between $4 to $15. The more items you donate, the more you can get written off for your charitable contributions. Think about it, you can help others who can benefit from the items you are giving away, and you can include your donations as itemized deductions on your taxes, which can end up saving you money.

3. It can spur a change for the better

Research has shown that about 70 percent of people who are on social media would be inspired to take some kind of action after reading about a friend who has made a charitable donation. Meaning, if you donate and write about it on social media, you can spur change and inspire more people to give! Many American donations actually find their way to developing nations and give individuals clothing for themselves and their families.

4. You’ll feel good about helping others

There is no better feeling than knowing you had a positive impact on someone else’s life. Giving clothing donations for veterans can help you feel good about giving away items that you no longer need that can be sold to help fund programs to help veterans. Nothing comes close to the sense of pride and joy you will feel after donating and knowing you are helping to make the world a better place and help all people feel cared for.

What are some items that you can donate today? Tell us in the comments!