Goodwill Outlets & Bins in Hamden

Some key take-aways: When the bins come out, you are not allowed to touch them until they say go ahead. Most of the bins are clothes. Patrons throw as much as they can in their cart and sort out what they want after the bins have dispersed. It's kind of gross and dusty, so bring gloves and/or a mask. Nothing can be put on the floor, so make sure you have a bag or cart. You might be able to find something good, but most of the items feel like leftovers from the goodwill store that noone else wanted, or never made it to the floor because it didn't pass inspection. Also, I wrote this review while waiting for the next set of bins to come out, it took a while.

I adore this Goodwill Bins location. It's easy to get to, parking is plentiful, and the selection is outstanding. The real gem of this location is the staff . Every single employee is cheerful, helpful, courteous, knowledgeable, and always willing to inform you when the next bin of whatever is coming out:) the store is well lit and includes an area with table/chairs and refreshment vending machines. This location is family friendly. Many shoppers where mask and gloves. During the pandemic, every 2 hours, this store shut down for 1hour to sterilize the entire store. This bins store is my "home store" for the last 20 years. I highly recommend this location.

While most of the stuff is just rejects from other stores, not all of it is, and some things are treasures those other stores didn't care for as much as others do. The staff pulling the bins out work much harder than I expected from a thrift store. They deserve more credit. The cashiers are very happy and cheerful. Remember to bring gloves however as some items in those bins can be very gross and have found sharp items buried, such as a paper cutter. While I didn't find anything for me, I did see some things very valuable to others. It is fun to be here earlier in the day and will come back often. You'll see people who come here regularly and seem like pros looking for valuables, and even know each other very well. Very different kind of place for Connecticut.