All items · Sharps & weapons

Knives and bladed items

Also covers: kitchen knives, knife block, chef knife, machete, axe

Can you donate knives and bladed items to a UK charity shop? Usually not.

The short answer Almost all say no Of the 153 UK charities we track, 64 say no and 9 may accept in some cases. 1 of those is a category-wide rule rather than a direct mention. Evidence last verified

Why shops may refuse it

Age restrictions and staff safety mean many shops refuse blades entirely; others sell kitchen knives with checks — it varies.

What to do instead

Ask the police or council about a surrender bin or designated station before travelling. Wrap and secure every blade thoroughly for transport, whether taking it to police or to a household waste recycling centre.

Charity by charity

73 mentions
Not mentioned in 80 charities' guidance

Absence from a charity's list doesn't mean they accept it — it just isn't singled out. Ask your local shop.