Hey, Burlingame! Closet chaos, storage boxes stacked like Greek columns, garage bursting at the seems? Same. I've got an 18th month old at home and everyday she get's something new and I think... where does this fit in my life?

Good news: donating smart is easy.
At Treasure Paws, your gifts power our mission to generate funding for PHS's Hope Program and help local families. Plus you keep great clothes in use, not in landfills. That’s the heart of our Burlingame thrift store.
Here’s what you need to start donate clothes in Burlingame the smart, simple way. Let’s fix the common slip-ups together.

1. Dropping off dirty, stained, or smelly clothes

We know you’re clearing fast. But we don’t have laundry machines. If it’s stained or smelly, it can’t hit the floor.
Fix it: Wash, dry, de-lint, de-hair. Quick sniff test. If you’d hand it to a friend, it’s good to go.

Bonus points for a light, clean scent. Shoppers feel the care.

2. Ignoring condition and quality

Kind intent, tough reality: if it can’t be worn, it can’t help our community.
Fix it: Check zippers, buttons, seams, and hems. No big stains or rips. Tiny fix? Sew the button. Snip the loose thread. Two minutes. Big difference.

3. Not sorting your items

Mixed bags slow us down. Sorting helps us help faster.
Fix it:

Clothing together
Shoes and accessories together
Seasonal items separate
Delicates in their own bag
Use sturdy bags or boxes. Label if you can. Easy.

4. Leaving donations outside after hours

We love the effort. But weather and critters don’t. Great bags can turn into lost causes overnight.

Fix it: Drop during open hours so we can bring items in right away. Scheduling a pickup? We'll be ready for you!

Making your donation count

Here’s the simple truth: clean, sorted, in-season, good-condition items help fastest. That’s how your gift supports neighbors in Burlingame and around San Mateo—right when they need it.
We’re here for our community. Our mission stays steady. Your kindness keeps it moving.

Quick checklist for “nailed it” donations:

Washed and fresh
Wearable condition
Sorted and labeled
Dropped off during open hours

Have questions? We get it. Change can feel big. But not much! It’s easy. And we’re happy to help.

What do we always need the most of?

Women's clothing
Purses and Bags
Jewelry
Video Games and Consoles
Collectables (Especially Records/LP’s)
Original Artwork
Cameras

The last word? Think “Hemingway-short and sweet.” Prep a little. Impact a lot.

Ready to do good, the smart way? Visit Treasure Paws—your Burlingame thrift store—shop, donate, volunteer, and spread the word. Let’s keep the good going.

See you soon at Treasure Paws in Burlingame!

4 Mistakes You're Making When Donating Clothes in Burlingame + 1 Pro Tip!