I’ve decided it’s spring, even though the few sunny days we’ve been graced with have been sandwiched by snow. 

And I’ve decided it’s time to clean out my closet. And maybe my kitchen. 

Here are eight places in Greater Portland that are accepting donations of gently used items, to motivate you to start your spring cleaning, too.

Maine Needs

2385 Congress St., Portland. maineneeds.org.

The organization accepts clothes in relatively good condition, which it characterizes as “like you are giving to your best friend.” That means no stains, business attire or political, religious or crude messaging. 

It also accepts household supplies like silverware, bowls and small appliances; new cleaning supplies and toiletries; and outdoor gear like tents, sleeping bags and backpacks, which are used to support people who are unhoused. 

Donations are accepted through the doors at the back side of the building on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m, and Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon. 

Portland Gear Hub

155 Washington Ave., Portland. 207-761-7632 or portlandgearhub.org

Have a bike lying around that you don’t ride anymore? Or camping gear you haven’t used in years?

Drop them off at the Portland Gear Hub during open hours Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The nonprofit refurbishes and either donates or sells bikes with the mission of making it easier to access transportation, biking and the outdoors.

Safe Combinations 

15 Casco St. Portland. Located inside the Equality Community Center. mainetrans.net/safe-combinations or [email protected].

This thrift store, a project of MaineTrans.Net, provides a gender-affirming shopping experience. All items, like clothes, shoes, bras and accessories, are priced by suggested donation and the proceeds support the transgender community. The shop is open on Monday, Friday and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.

You can schedule a donation on the website. 

Donations must be washed. The shop is always looking for bras and binders. 

Making it Home 

104 Thadeus St, Unit 10, South Portland. Call or text 203-722-4615 or 207-233-0590. makingithomemaine.org.

This initiative collects and redistributes new and gently used household items for those who are recently housed. 

It accepts kitchen basics like dish sets, cutting knives, cooking utensils and vegetable peelers; bedroom basics like sheets, blankets and hangers and general items like lamps and brooms. 

Reach out through [email protected] to coordinate donations. 

Past + Future Craft Exchange

506 Main St #18, Westbrook. 207- 849-3371 or pastandfuturecraft.com.

Donate unwanted fabric, sewing machines and other craft supplies. The store accepts fabric in quarter yard or larger,  zippers, buttons, needles, pins, tape measures, seam rippers, sewing patterns and books, quilts, yarn, embroidery floss, dyeing supplies and any tools related to textile crafting. 

If your donation fits into two shopping bags or one large tote, you can drop it off without an appointment Thursday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with preference on Thursday and Friday. For large donations, schedule an appointment. 

The Gathering Place 

5 Tenney Way, Brunswick. 207-729-0288 or brunswickgatheringplace.org.

This daytime shelter for unhoused people in the greater Brunswick area is always looking for ground coffee, sugar, peanut butter, coffee mugs, paper plates, feminine products, unopened toiletries and clothing items to stay warm. 

Donations can be dropped off on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Cape Elizabeth Swap Shop 

21 Dennison Dr, Cape Elizabeth. capeelizabeth.gov/departments/public_works

Cape Elizabeth residents can drop off toys and sporting goods, housewares, small appliances, yard tools, and books and magazines. It’s only open to Cape residents.

South Portland and Saco also have swap shops for their residents.

Freeport Community Services

53 Depot St, Freeport. 207-865-3985 or fcsmaine.org.

This thrift store accepts clothing, household items, books, small appliances, toys and puzzles. The revenue derived from the thrift store funds programs and services for the FCS, like age-friendly activites, holiday programs and fuel assistance for Freeport and Pownal residents.

Donations are accepted Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.