Pricing Van Lines is here not only with moving full-service options but also with creative ideas to get the brain juices flowing about the best uses for that old furniture before your move. Let’s stop waste together and find solutions to repurpose things. If not, we also offer great moving solutions.
Let's Get That Old Sofa Out or Redone
When it comes to deciding what to do with your old furniture there are lots of decisions to be made. Whether you’re downsizing, upgrading, or just wanting fresh start, figuring out how to dispose of unwanted furniture in a smart way can be a challenge or a fun game depending on your outlook.
Trust us there are eco-friendly and budget-friendly ways to part with your old pieces or revamp them, as well as DIY concepts that can help you give new life to that old sofabed.
Here’s our guide to help you figure out the process of disposing of old furniture when moving, with a focus on cool ideas and sustainable ways to repurpose things.
1. Understand the Condition of Your Existing Furniture
Before you decide how to dispose of your furniture or what to really do with it, it’s important to be sure of its condition.
Is it still functional? Is it rotted inside and should be trashed? Can it be repurposed or restored in a way that won’t cost and arm and a leg? Furniture in decent condition can be given away to many organizations or even just be put out on the side of the street for homeless people, sold for cheap, or repurposed into the dream sofa.
If the items is totally a goner it should be disposed of through more sustainable methods, like recycling or upcycling.
What Do I Asked Myself?
- Is the furniture still usable if I fix it?
- Would someone else find value in it with simple fixes?
- Is it made from materials that should be recycled or repurposed?
This should be your guide to understanding what to do with that piece of old furniture.
2. Donate to Nonprofits
One of the best moral ways to get rid of furniture is by donating it to a nonprofit organization that you believe in. Many places accept gently used furniture, which can be resold or given to people in need. Goodwill, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, and local shelters take furniture donations. If your furniture isn’t of good enough quality to give to someone without taking their dignity, don’t even try to donate it.
Why Donating is Awesome and Helpful:
- When you donate, it reduces waste by reusing furniture instead of sending it to the landfill to die. Less things means less problems.
- You can claim a tax deduction for the market value of your donation if you give it to a registered organization.
- You will make a positive impact on someone’s life, whether they’re just starting out or going through tough times if you give it to an organization that helps the homeless rebuild their lives.
- Some places offer free pickup services for larger furniture, which is a great option if you’re moving and need things out.
3. Sell Things Online
If your furniture is in good enough condition, try selling it online to make extra cash before moving. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and online whastapp forums allow you to list your items for sale and connect with buyers in your local area.
Selling Pro Tips:
- Take good well lit photos: Take photos of your furniture from different angles and show any special features. Make sure to give measurements to avoid the back and forth conversations.
- Give good descriptions: Be honest about the condition of the furniture and mention any scratches, stains, or wear and tear. Take pictures of the issues so the buyer won’t waste their time.
- Set a fair price: Understand the going rate then give a discount. It is in your interest to get rid of the piece.
- Be flexible: Offer delivery or help with carrying it outside if possible. Give discounts to get rid of things quickly.
4. Repurpose and Upcycle Old Things: Give Them A New Life
My favorite thing to do is to upcycle an old and tired piece. If you’re feeling creative, repurposing or upcycling old furniture can be a fun and cheap way to give new life to your old furniture pieces. Instead of throwing out an old coffee table or a worn-out chair, consider how you could turn it into something fresh and useful.
Before you toss that broken surfboard, think about maybe turning it into a table! Upcycling is also an environmentally friendly choice so help the planet while making your home feel great!
DIY Cool Ideas for Upcycling: In with the old and our with the new!
- Turn a dresser into a shelf rack: Remove the drawers, install a hanging rack, and add shelving. You’ll have a cool new area for your new wardrobe!
- Turn wooden pallets into furniture: Wooden pallets can be used to create a simple coffee table, shelves, or even outdoor seating- just add pillows!
- Make an outdoor planter: Old chairs, bathtubs, and even small dishes can be repurposed as cool planters for your garden! A little paint goes a long way.
- Repurpose fabric: If you have bigger furniture, you can repurpose the fabric to make pillows, cushion covers, or small blankets. Alternatively you can redo the fabric on an existing couch or chair.
5. Recycle or Reuse Certain Materials
If your furniture is beyond repair or reuse, try disassembling it and recycling its parts. Many parts of furniture, like the wood, metal, and certain types of plastic can be recycled or reused.
- Wood: Repurpose the wood for DIY projects.
- Fabric: Reuse it for crafting projects or donate it to a crafting group.
7. Rent a Dumpster and Get Rid of The Rest
If you’re dealing with a large amount of old and really useless furniture or heavy, non-recyclable items, renting a dumpster might be the easiest way to get rid of things efficently.
Many moving companies offer dumpster rentals, which can be placed in your driveway for the duration of your move. You can then get rid of your old furniture at your convenience, and the company will take care of the rest. It is also useful for big amounts of trash.
Goodbye for Now
Disposing of old furniture when moving doesn’t have to be a wasteful process. Whether you choose to donate, sell, upcycle, recycle, or simply toss things, there are many smart and sustainable options that you are now aware of. With a bit of creativity part ways with your old furniture and give it a second life. For extra help reach out to Pricing Van Lines and we will find you personalized moving solutions and customize you plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get rid of old furniture without contributing to landfill waste?
Donating or recycling are the most environmentally friendly options. Donating to a nonprofit or repurposing items through DIY projects gives that old couch a second chance at life. Try not to simply toss things before giving them a good look and ensuring a more sustainable idea.
Can I sell old furniture if it’s damaged?
Yes, many people are willing to buy used furniture with minor wear and tear or issues if it’s still functional. When you list your furniture for sale online be honest about it’s condition and show photos of the issues to save everyone time.
How do I find a company to pick up my old furniture?
Local junk removal companies like LoadUp provide furniture pickup services for a fee. You can also check with local nonprofits to see if they offer free pickup for donations to save while doing good.
What are some cool ways to repurpose old furniture?
You can transform old furniture into new fun pieces. Turn a coffee table into a storage bench, upcycle wooden pallets into shelves or a table, or repurpose old chairs as planters. Get creative and check out Pintrest for even more ideas.
How do I know the best way to move cross-country?
If you are moving across the USA, you need professional moves to handle the logistics and planning side of things. Pricing Van Lines will handle all the hard parts, you just focus on packing up your life. Book today to lock in the best rates.
