What to do with

Furniture

Want to recycle furniture but don't know if you can?
To find you nearest local facilities to recycle or donate unwanted furniture, use our handy Recycling Locator tool.
Check local furniture recycling

How can I recycle it?

Furniture that cannot be re-used by someone else can often be recycled, especially items made from wood and metal.

  • Most furniture can be recycled at your local recycling centre
  • Use the red 'Where can I recycle?' button above to find your nearest recycling centre that accepts these items
  • Your local council may be able to provide you with a collection service - contact them for more details 

What else can I do?

Pass them on...

Charity and re-use organisations

  • Some items of furniture can be donated to a charity shop, a furniture re-use organisation or local community project. If you live in London, you can also check out this re-use organisation too. The Recycling Locator now lists some of these
  • Check to see if your council offers a collection service for re-use
  • Upholstered furniture such as sofas and mattresses need to have their fire safety label intact - otherwise charities and re-use organisations are unable to sell them on
  • If you live in Northern Ireland, try re:store, a chain of outlets run by the East Belfast Mission. They accept a wide range of donated items
  • If you live in Scotland: call the National re-use phone line to donate your furniture on 0800 0665 820

It’s always worth checking what type of furniture can be donated, different charity and re-use organisations often collect slightly different items.

Online

Friends, family and local events

  • Ask family and friends - often they can use the things we don’t want anymore
  • Sell smaller items locally at car boots, nearly new and bring and buy sales (Car Boot Junction lists UK car boot sales)
  • Put an ad in the local newspaper or shop window
  • Look out for local swapping events - you might even bag yourself a bargain in return!

Give repairing a go...

If you have items which are broken and need a lick of paint or a simple repair to get them back into shape, why not have a go? With a bit of practice and TLC your old furniture could take on a whole new lease of life! If you are unsure, ask family or friends for help.

Alternatively, check online for local repair services or look in telephone directories.

Re-use in Action - Furniture

See furniture re-use in action