The delay in accepting the donations will also allow staff to ensure all items have been properly processed including being quarantined for 72-hours before hitting the shelves.

Store manager Col Barnes said the store will be open to customers from Wednesdays to Fridays from 9am to 4pm although it's yet to be determined when the store will extend its hours.

"When we started taking donations earlier this week, we were overwhelmed with the amount of donated items from the community and we request for people to hold onto them until we're able to properly quarantine it," he said.

"The quarantine process entails the items will be placed in warehouse tubs for 72-hours, dated, cleaned and then placed in the store for sale."

Mr Barnes said more volunteers were needed to help out at the store.

"We have seen a decrease in volunteers because they are considered vulnerable and over 70 years of age, it is encouraging to see some new faces in the store," he said.

"We would strongly encourage community members who do have the time to put their hand up and help the Salvation Army if they can."

Mr Barnes also said the store has been set up to allow up to 97 people inside.

"We have set up the store in a way that allows people to keep up with social distancing with markers on the ground and one-way isles," he said. "We are using the three open days as a trial run during this time."

Orange and Bathurst Corp Officer Kate Cathcart said the quarantine process was vital for staff and customer safety.

"There will be two sections for the donations to be quarantined in the store so there won't be any cross- contamination," she said.

Ms Cathcart said the store layout had been changed and sanitation stations implemented to ensure all health measures are met.

"Before a volunteer begins their shift, we have asked them to sanitise their phones, glasses and any other personal items from home before and after their shift," she said. "All staff will wear gloves and work behind the sneeze guard at the till."