When it is time to update your home with new furniture, the first challenge is figuring out what to do with your old pieces. Whether you are replacing a worn-out sofa, upgrading your dining set, or simply decluttering, it is important to dispose of furniture responsibly.
At Sandy’s Furniture, we know that getting rid of old furniture can feel overwhelming, so we have put together a guide to help you explore responsible, hassle-free ways to donate, recycle, or dispose of unwanted furniture.
1. Donate to Local Charities
One of the best ways to get rid of gently used furniture is by donating it to a local charity. Many organizations accept furniture donations and distribute them to families in need or sell them to fund community programs.
Where to Donate Furniture in Canada:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores – Accepts furniture, appliances, and building materials to support affordable housing projects.
- Salvation Army Thrift Stores – Many locations accept furniture donations for resale, helping fund social services.
- Furniture Banks – Non-profits that provide furniture to low-income families and newcomers to Canada.
- Local Shelters and Community Centres – Some accept furniture donations to help families in transition.
Donation Tips:
- Check with the charity first to confirm they accept furniture donations.
- Ensure your furniture is in good condition—most charities do not accept heavily damaged or stained pieces.
- Some organizations offer free pick-up services, making the donation process easy.
By donating, you are not only helping others but also keeping usable furniture out of landfills.
2. Sell or Give Away Your Furniture
If your furniture is still in good shape, you may be able to sell or give it away. This is a great way to ensure your pieces find a new home while making a bit of extra money or helping out someone in need.
Where to Sell or Give Away Furniture:
- Online Marketplaces – Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, and Craigslist are popular platforms for selling or giving away furniture locally.
- Buy Nothing Groups – Community-based groups where neighbours give and receive items for free.
- Consignment Stores – Some furniture stores will sell your items for you and take a percentage of the sale.
Selling and Giveaway Tips:
- Take clear photos in good lighting to showcase your furniture’s condition.
- Provide accurate descriptions including dimensions, materials, and any minor flaws.
- Be prepared for negotiations and arrange a safe, convenient pick-up location.
This option works well for furniture that still has life left in it but may not be needed in your home anymore.
3. Recycle or Repurpose Old Furniture
If your furniture is not in good enough condition to donate or sell, consider recycling or repurposing it instead of throwing it away. Many materials, such as wood, metal, and fabric, can be reused or recycled into new products.
Recycling Options:
- Municipal Recycling Programs – Some cities offer bulk item collection or recycling services for furniture.
- Scrap Metal Recycling – Metal bed frames, chairs, and tables can often be taken to a scrap yard for recycling.
- Specialty Recycling Centres – Some facilities accept mattresses, upholstery, and wooden furniture for eco-friendly disposal.
Repurposing Ideas:
- Turn an old dresser into a TV stand or storage bench.
- Use reclaimed wood from a dining table for shelving or DIY projects.
- Reupholster or paint furniture to give it a new life and updated look.
Recycling and repurposing help reduce waste while giving your old furniture a new purpose.
4. Use a Furniture Removal or Junk Hauling Service
If donation, selling, or recycling are not options, hiring a furniture removal service is the easiest way to get rid of large, unwanted pieces. Many companies provide eco-friendly disposal by recycling or donating items when possible.
Furniture Removal Options in Canada:
- 1-800-GOT-JUNK? – Offers full-service furniture removal and recycles or donates whenever possible.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk – Provides pick-up services with a focus on donation and recycling.
- Local Waste Management Services – Many municipalities offer bulk waste pick-up for a fee.
Things to Consider:
- Some services charge based on volume or weight, so get a quote in advance.
- Check if they recycle or donate to minimize environmental impact.
- If using a municipal bulk waste collection, find out if you need to schedule a pick-up or drop off the item yourself.
This is a great option for getting rid of damaged or oversized furniture that cannot be repurposed.
5. Dispose of Furniture Properly
If your furniture cannot be donated, sold, or recycled, proper disposal is the last option. It is important to follow local regulations to ensure furniture is disposed of in an environmentally responsible way.
How to Properly Dispose of Furniture:
- Check with your municipal waste department for guidelines on bulk furniture disposal.
- Some cities require special permits or scheduled pick-ups for large items.
- Avoid dumping furniture illegally—improper disposal can result in fines.
Many areas offer landfill diversion programs to ensure that furniture is broken down and recycled wherever possible.
Final Thoughts: Making the Best Choice for Your Old Furniture
Getting rid of old furniture does not have to be difficult. Whether you choose to donate, sell, recycle, or dispose of it properly, there are plenty of options to ensure your unwanted pieces are handled responsibly.
At Sandy’s Furniture, we encourage eco-friendly furniture disposal and believe in finding new homes for pieces whenever possible. If you are replacing old furniture, visit our showroom or explore our online collection to find the perfect new addition to your home.
FAQs
1. Where can I donate old furniture in Canada?
Organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, and Furniture Banks accept furniture donations. Check with local shelters and community centres for additional options.
2. What is the easiest way to get rid of large furniture?
Hiring a junk removal service or scheduling a municipal bulk pick-up are the easiest options for large furniture disposal.
3. Can I leave my old furniture on the curb for pick-up?
Each city has different rules. Some municipalities allow curbside bulk pick-up, while others require scheduled collection or drop-off at a disposal site.
4. How do I recycle furniture instead of throwing it away?
Look for specialty recycling centres, scrap metal yards, or wood reclamation programs that accept old furniture.