Are you looking to declutter your space and wondering what to do with your old bowling balls? You’re not alone! Donating or disposing of these heavy items can be tricky, but worry not.
We have compiled a comprehensive guide on where you can donate or dispose of those unused bowling balls, focusing on the Salvation Army’s acceptance policy.
In this blog post, we will explore various options for repurposing, recycling, and donating your old bowling equipment while making a positive impact in your community.
Does Salvation Army Take Bowling Balls?
Yes, it does take bowling balls. The Salvation Army only accepts bowling balls that are in good condition and weigh between 10-16 pounds, but be sure to check their restrictions on damaged or hazardous items.
Accepted Weights And Conditions
When donating old bowling balls to The Salvation Army, it’s important to note that the organization has specific weight restrictions and conditions for acceptable items.
Bowling balls with a weight range of 12-16 pounds are typically accepted, as they are more commonly used by bowlers. It’s also essential that the items be in good condition without any cracks or chips on the surface.
The Salvation Army accepts donations of gently used goods that can be sold at their thrift stores in order to generate funding for various programs and services for those in need.
Restrictions On Damaged Or Hazardous Items
It is important to note that The Salvation Army has restrictions on accepting damaged or hazardous items, including old bowling balls. Donating broken or dangerous items can pose a safety risk to staff and volunteers and divert funding from their programs toward disposal.
According to their acceptance policy, any item considered unsafe, such as those containing lead-based paint or pesticides, will not be accepted.
To ensure a safe donation experience for all parties involved and increase the chances of your donation being accepted by The Salvation Army Thrift Store; make sure to thoroughly clean your old bowling ball before donating it.
Check for cracks in the surface of the ball or other forms of damage possibly caused during use.
Donation Center Locations
The Salvation Army has donation centers across the United States where you can donate your old bowling balls. To find a location near you, visit their website or give them a call.
By donating to The Salvation Army, your gently used items could help someone in need and make a positive impact on your community. Plus, donations can be used to fund programs and services that support people struggling with addiction or homelessness.
So if you’re wondering what to do with your old bowling ball, consider donating it to The Salvation Army instead of throwing it out.
Other Options For Donating Or Disposing Of Old Bowling Balls
Repurpose Or Sell Online
One great way to get rid of an old bowling ball is to repurpose or sell it online. Repurposing can be as simple as turning it into a garden decoration, like using it as a planter.
For those looking to make some extra money, selling the ball online on platforms like eBay or Craigslist is another option! With over 182 million active users and tons of listings added daily, there’s sure to be someone out there who wants your old bowling ball.
Give To A Friend Or Local Bowling Alley
One of the simplest ways to get rid of an old bowling ball is by giving it away to a friend or donating it to a local bowling alley. This option can be especially beneficial for those who are sentimental about their old equipment and would like to see it continue being used.
Donating your bowling ball to a local alley, in particular, can have several positive outcomes such as providing equipment for new bowlers who may not be able to afford their own gear yet.
Additionally, donating your ball locally ensures that the item remains within the community and retains its purpose rather than ending up in landfills unnecessarily.
Recycle
Donating or disposing of old bowling balls can be an eco-friendly choice when done responsibly. However, it’s crucial to note that not all recycling centers accept bowling balls due to their composition.
Recycling isn’t limited to traditional metal and plastic products; in fact, there are many creative ways people have found new uses for old equipment.
For instance, you could use an old bowling ball as a garden decoration by painting them with bright colors or using it as a garden edge marker.
Tips For Preparing Bowling Balls For Donation Or Disposal
Cleaning And Removal Of Personal Information
Before donating or disposing of an old bowling ball, it is essential to clean and remove any personal information from the surface. Cleaning can be done using soap and water or a specialized cleaner for bowling balls, but take care not to use abrasive materials that could damage the outer layer.
It is also important to remove any labels or stickers containing your name or other identifying details. This ensures your privacy while preventing confusion among recipients.
In addition, removing personal items from donated goods is a common practice in charitable organizations such as The Salvation Army. This helps maintain confidentiality while protecting both donors and recipients from fraudsters who might misuse their identity information.
Personal items like clothes, shoes, bags, sporting equipment, and electronic devices often carry some form of identification that needs erasing before they are given away or discarded responsibly through proper disposal channels.
Checking For Damages
Before donating or disposing of old bowling balls, it’s important to check for damages. A broken or chipped ball may not be safe to use and could cause injury to others.
Additionally, damaged balls may not be accepted by donation centers such as The Salvation Army. To check for damages, inspect the surface of the ball for cracks, chips, or other signs of wear and tear.
You should also test the weight of the ball to make sure it hasn’t become uneven over time.
Conclusion
Donating or disposing of old bowling balls is not only a good way to declutter your home but also an opportunity to do something positive for the environment and others.
When considering where to donate or dispose of your old bowling balls, The Salvation Army is an excellent option that can make a significant impact on communities in need.
By following their acceptance policy, which outlines what they can and cannot accept, you can ensure that your donation is put to good use.
Last updated on June 26, 2023
Rosalina Giles has been bowling for the past five years, and in that time, she’s picked up a few tricks of the trade. She loves discussing new bowling techniques and news with her friends at the lanes. Plus, she used to be a manager of a small bowling alley in downtown Chicago- so she knows her stuff!
