What Deseret Industries Is
Deseret Industries is a thrift store chain run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It operates in about a dozen western U.S. states, plus Washington D.C., and sells used clothing, furniture, books, electronics, and household goods at low prices. Unlike many thrift chains, Deseret Industries uses its profits to fund job training and employment programs for people with disabilities and other barriers to work.
You shop at Deseret Industries the same way you shop at any thrift store — you walk in, browse the aisles, pick items off the shelf, and pay at the register. Prices are typically lower than department stores but vary by location and item condition. The stores accept cash and cards.
Deseret Industries is not a donation center or a place where you receive financial help. It is a retail business where you buy things. If you want to donate items, most locations accept donations, but that is a separate transaction from shopping.
Key Takeaways
- Deseret Industries operates thrift stores in western states and Washington D.C., selling used clothing, furniture, and household goods at low prices.
- The stores are owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and use profits to fund job training for people with disabilities.
- You can donate items at most locations, though donation policies and drop-off procedures vary by store.
- Prices are lower than retail but higher than some other thrift chains, and inventory changes constantly because stock comes from donations.
Where Deseret Industries Stores Are Located
Deseret Industries has stores in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, and Washington D.C. The largest concentration is in Utah, where the church is headquartered. Not every city in these states has a location, so you may need to search for the nearest one.
The official Deseret Industries website has a store locator tool where you can enter your zip code and see which locations are closest to you, their hours, and their phone numbers. Hours vary by location — some are open six days a week, others seven. A few locations close on Sundays.
What You Can Buy and How Prices Work
Deseret Industries sells used items in these main categories: clothing for men, women, and children; furniture and home décor; books; electronics; kitchen items; and toys. Clothing is usually the largest section. Because inventory comes from donations, what is in stock changes daily — you might find designer jeans one week and nothing the next.
Prices are set per item, not by weight or category. A used t-shirt might cost $2 to $4, a pair of jeans $5 to $8, and a couch $50 to $150, depending on condition and location. Electronics are priced higher than clothing but lower than retail. Many stores run weekly sales or mark down items that have been on the shelf for a while, so prices can shift.
Deseret Industries does not price-match other thrift stores, and return policies vary by location. Before you buy, ask the cashier about the store's return window — it is usually seven to 14 days with a receipt.
How to Donate Items
Most Deseret Industries locations accept donations of clothing, furniture, books, and household goods. You do not need to be a church member to donate. Donations are tax-deductible, and the store will give you a receipt showing the number of items you dropped off, though not their estimated value — you determine the value yourself for tax purposes.
Donation procedures vary by store. Some have a donation center separate from the retail floor where you drop items off. Others accept donations at the register or at a loading dock. Call ahead or check the store's page on the Deseret Industries website to learn how that location handles donations.
Most stores do not accept donations of items that are stained, torn, or broken, though policies differ. Electronics, books, and furniture in good condition are usually welcome. If you are unsure whether an item will be accepted, ask before you bring it in.
Employment and Training Programs
Deseret Industries operates job training and employment services for people with disabilities, people re-entering the workforce, and others facing barriers to work. These programs are separate from the thrift stores themselves, though they are run by the same organization. The programs teach job skills, provide work experience, and help people find permanent employment.
If you are interested in these services, you can contact your local Deseret Industries store or visit the organization's website to find the employment program office nearest you. may be able to access and program details vary by location.
Payment Methods and Store Policies
Deseret Industries accepts cash and major credit and debit cards at checkout. Some locations may accept mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay, but this varies. If you are unsure, ask before you shop.
Most stores have a dressing room where you can try on clothing before you buy. Fitting room policies — such as how many items you can take in at once — vary by location. The stores are generally open to the public and do not require membership to shop or donate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return items I bought at Deseret Industries?
Most locations allow returns within seven to 14 days with a receipt. Items must be in the same condition you bought them in. Return policies vary by store, so ask at the register when you purchase or call ahead if you are unsure.
Do I need to be a member of the church to shop or donate?
No. Deseret Industries is open to the public. You do not need to be a church member to shop, donate, or use the employment programs.
What happens to items that don't sell?
Items that sit on the shelf for a long time are usually marked down or donated to other charities. Some stores also hold periodic clearance sales. Unsold inventory practices vary by location.
Are Deseret Industries prices negotiable?
Prices are set by the store and are not negotiable. However, many locations run sales or mark down older items, so checking back regularly or asking about upcoming sales can help you find lower prices.
Can I donate items that are slightly damaged?
Most locations do not accept items that are stained, torn, or broken. Call your local store before you bring donations to confirm what condition items need to be in.