How to Get Rid of Furniture? Got an old couch, broken table, or worn-out mattress taking up space? Whether you’re moving, redecorating, or just decluttering, getting rid of furniture doesn’t have to be a hassle. This guide covers the best ways to remove unwanted furniture—responsibly, affordably, and even profitably.
Table of Contents
1. Sell Your Furniture for Cash
If your furniture is still in decent shape, selling it can put money back in your pocket.
Online Marketplaces (Facebook, Craigslist, OfferUp)
Take clear photos, write a good description, and set a fair price. Local buyers often pick up same day.
Consignment Stores
Some shops sell furniture for you and take a cut—great for high-quality pieces.
Garage Sales
Perfect for selling multiple items at once. Advertise locally for better turnout.
Auction Sites (eBay, EstateSales.net)
Best for vintage, antique, or designer furniture that collectors may want.
2. Donate to Charity
Give your furniture a second life while helping others—and possibly getting a tax deduction.
Goodwill & Salvation Army
They accept gently used furniture and often offer free pickup.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Great for donating home furnishings—supports affordable housing projects.
Local Shelters & Churches
Homeless shelters, women’s shelters, and churches often need furniture donations.
Freecycle or Buy Nothing Groups
Post your item for free—someone in your community may need it.
3. Recycle Old Furniture
Eco-friendly disposal keeps usable materials out of landfills.
Wooden Furniture Recycling
Many recycling centers take untreated wood for repurposing.
Metal & Plastic Parts
Scrap metal recyclers may pay for metal frames or hardware.
Mattress Recycling Programs
Some states require mattress recycling—check local facilities.
Municipal Bulk Waste Pickup
Many cities offer scheduled pickups for large furniture (sometimes for a fee).
4. Hire a Junk Removal Service
When you need furniture gone fast, professionals can handle the heavy lifting.
1-800-GOT-JUNK?
Nationwide service with upfront pricing—good for large loads.
Local Junk Haulers
Often cheaper than big brands; search “junk removal near me.”
Same-Day Pickup Options
Some companies offer immediate service for an extra fee.
Compare Costs Before Booking
Prices vary based on volume—get multiple quotes.
5. Repurpose or Upcycle
Get creative before tossing furniture—many pieces can be transformed.
Turn a Dresser into a Bench
Remove drawers, add cushions, and repaint for a stylish seat.
Convert a Bookshelf into Pet Furniture
Cats love climbing redesigned shelves.
Use Old Doors as Tables
Sand and seal for a rustic-chic look.
Make a Coffee Table from Pallets
Sand, stain, and add wheels for a trendy DIY piece.
6. Give It Away for Free
If you just want furniture gone quickly, free listings work wonders.
Facebook Marketplace Free Section
Post with “FREE—must haul away” for fast responses.
Craigslist “Free Stuff”
Be prepared for quick pickups—first come, first served.
Nextdoor App
Neighbors might need what you’re discarding.
College Student Groups
Students often seek free furniture at semester start/end.
7. Break Down & Trash (Last Resort)
If furniture is beyond repair, dispose of it properly.
Check Local Dump Rules
Some landfills charge by weight; others prohibit certain materials.
Disassemble Large Pieces
Taking furniture apart makes it easier to transport.
Use a Dumpster Rental
For major cleanouts, a temporary dumpster may be cost-effective.
Avoid Illegal Dumping
Fines for leaving furniture on curbs or in alleys can be steep.
8. Rent a Dumpster or Truck
For big projects, DIY hauling might be cheapest.
Bagster Dumpster in a Bag
Walmart/Home Depot sells foldable dumpsters for pickup.
Home Depot Truck Rental
Rent a van or truck by the hour for hauling.
U-Haul Trailers
Affordable option if you have a hitch.
Compare Rental Costs
Prices vary—check local rates before booking.
9. Check for Bulk Pickup Services
Many waste management companies offer large-item disposal.
City Trash Collection
Some municipalities collect furniture 1-2 times per month.
Waste Management’s Bulk Program
Schedule a pickup online (fees may apply).
Private Waste Companies
Call for pricing—often cheaper than junk removal.
Restrictions Apply
They may not take mattresses, hazardous materials, or extremely heavy items.
10. Avoid Scams & Hassles
Protect yourself when giving away or selling furniture.
Meet in Public for Sales
Avoid having strangers come to your home alone.
Don’t Pay Upfront for Hauling
Legitimate services charge after removal.
Verify Donation Pickups
Confirm charity credentials before scheduling.
Get Receipts for Donations
Needed for tax deductions.
FAQs
1. How do I get rid of a heavy couch for free?
Post it for free on Craigslist/Facebook or schedule a charity pickup.
2. Will junk removal take broken furniture?
Yes, most companies haul away damaged items.
3. Where can I recycle a mattress?
Check Earth911.com or local mattress retailers for recycling programs.
4. Can I leave furniture on the curb?
Only if your city allows it—otherwise, you may get fined.
5. What’s the cheapest way to remove furniture?
Giving it away for free or using municipal bulk pickup.
Conclusion
Getting rid of furniture doesn’t have to mean sending it to a landfill. Whether you sell, donate, recycle, or repurpose, there’s an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution. For more home tips, visit Wickerhead.
Need a dumpster rental? Compare options at Bagster. Clear your space the smart way!