There are plenty of reasons to get rid of furniture items like a couch. Maybe you’ve decided to move out and bringing your sofa isn’t an option. Or maybe you’ve decided to treat yourself and get an upgrade.
Whatever your reasons, you’re probably wondering how to get rid of a couch — and we’re here to help.
Here’s the thing:
There are a lot of factors that go into removing used furniture. If you plan to do it yourself, you must figure out which furniture disposal method makes the most sense for you. Using a junk removal service? Then you should go over the cost and figure out if it’s worth it.
On top of all that, you should also consider how your disposal method could impact the environment.
Let’s go over everything you need to know about selling, donating, or disposing gently used furniture.
This is how to get rid of big furniture responsibly.
Step 1: Assess the Condition of Your Couch
A quick assessment of your old furniture will tell you all your options. If it’s still in good condition, then selling or donating it isn’t out of the question. But if it’s damaged or stained, you can either try to fix it up (meaning more work for you) or send it to your local scrap yard.
How do you know if your couch is still in good condition?
First, check its structural integrity. Look for any signs of cracks or loose joints. Inspect the legs to see if they’re wobbly. If your couch has springs, see if they provide adequate support.
Do you have upholstered furniture? Then check for signs of wear and tear. See if there are stains or loose threads. Cushions shouldn’t feel lumpy or uneven.
Side Note: If you need help moving furniture in New York, talk to us so we can give you a free quote.
Step 2: Determine Options for Getting Rid of a Couch
Done with your assessment? Good. Now let’s go over all the ways you can get rid of old sofa so you can make room for a new one.
Selling the Couch
Selling your old couch is the best way to get rid of a couch, especially those that are still in amazing condition.
Try selling furniture items through your contacts. Your family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances already know who you are. That means there’s no need to vet each other which makes transactions go smoother.
But if you don’t know anyone who’s looking to buy old furniture, head on over to online marketplaces and try your luck there. This is where thrift stores, restoration experts, DIYers, and bargain hunters hang out. You’ll find your audience there.
Popular marketplaces for selling sofas in good shape include Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp.
Another way to sell an old couch would be through furniture consignment shops. These are businesses that sell used furniture on behalf of clients. These shops earn commissions from the sales they make.
A nice thing about using furniture consignment shops is that they can help you assess the condition of your couch and determine its value. They also have retail locations where potential buyers can walk in and see your couch in person before buying.
However, some find the whole process a bit much especially if they want to dispose of their furniture as quickly as possible.
Whichever way you go, there are things you can do to boost your chances of selling your couch. You want to set a fair price. And when selling online, make sure you take well-lit photos and write a detailed description.
Donating the Couch
Wondering how to get rid of a couch for free?
Well, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Give your sofa a second life by donating them to charity.
Just keep in mind:
Even if you’re donating a used couch, you’ll want to make sure that they’re still usable. That’s because organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity ReStores do have requirements. At the very least, donations have to be clean and functional.
You can also look for a local charity in your area to support. Do note that some local charities will offer to drop by your place with a pickup truck for free if you’re donating bulky items.
Recycling the Couch
Unwanted items end up in many landfills — don’t let your old couch be part of the problem. Recycle your furniture if you can’t sell or donate. There are local recycling programs that accept furniture and break them down to find reusable components like wood, fabric, and metal.
Junk Removal Services
Get in touch with a junk removal company if you need help getting rid of old items like your couch. Popular full-service junk removal companies include 1-800-GOT-JUNK? and College Hunks Hauling Junk.
But these services can take you over your budget if you’re not ready. But to some, the convenience of paying someone to pick up your furniture and drive away with them is worth it. Usually, junk removal services are based on the volume of items you’re asking them to haul.
Some companies give you the option to move your furniture to a recycling facility or local shelters.
Municipal Bulk Pickup
Depending on where you are, you might have access to municipal bulk pickups. These are services provided by local governments to help their residents get rid of items too big for regular curbside pickup.
You’ll have to check with your city for the requirements. However, most will require you to schedule a pickup time.
In Dallas, for example, you can only have the city collect items up to 10 cubic yards. You can only set out materials for collection between Thursday and Sunday before collection week.
Some might also require you to do a bit of prep work before leaving your couch out for local government collection like stripping it of cushions or covers.
DIY Disposal
If you don’t want to hire a junk removal service and you’re willing to get your hands dirty, you can just deal with it yourself. Properly dispose of your old couch by taking it to your local scrap dealer or recycling facility.
Just keep in mind that those of you who don’t have a car large enough might have to rent a truck that can fit all your old furniture. You might also have to reach out to friends for help.
Check your local landfill if you have to pay disposal fees or have local guidelines that you need to follow. The last thing you want is to be accused of illegal dumping.
Creative Alternatives for Reusing or Repurposing
What if none of these options fell right? What else can you do with your old sofa?
You can always try repurposing or reusing your couch. For instance, you can break it down and convert it into a bench. Weatherproofing (replacing upholstery, adding waterproof cover, etc.) your couches can make them ideal for outdoor use.
Some convert their old couches into daybeds or guest beds. Also, consider turning your sofa into a storage solution. If nothing else, break down your cushion and reuse parts of it for other home projects.
Things to Consider Before Getting Rid of a Couch
When disposing of old furniture, consider the following:
Timing: Have a target date and stick to it. Give yourself enough time to get rid of your couch, especially if you’re moving out and can’t afford to have it past a certain date.
Costs: Look at all your options and see which one makes the most sense financially. Why pay to have your couch moved when you can do it for free?
Environmental Impact: You want to get rid of your couch in an eco-friendly way.
Local Regulations: Find out if there are local ordinances you need to follow when disposing of old furniture. It’s also a good idea to inquire about permits and other city requirements.
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