How to Throw Away a Couch and Other Large Pieces of Waste

Is it time to get rid of your couch?

Few things are as frustrating as paying money to a landfill to dump the couch you once paid good money for.

Surely there has to be a better way, right?

Fortunately, you have options. Read on as we reveal how to throw away a couch responsibly, as well as other large items you may need to dispose of.

Donate It

If your couch is still in good shape, your local thrift shops will likely take it. Call the Salvation Army, Goodwill, or independent thrift stores in your area to schedule a pick-up.

Contact Your Local Waste Agency

Most waste companies allow for free pick-ups at least two times per year for large items that don’t fit in trash bins. Some restrictions may apply. For example, they may only pick up two or three items.

Old couches, mattresses, and furniture are typical items you may leave on the curb. Call your waste company to find out what they will and won’t do and schedule a pick-up time.

Trade in the Old Sofa

If you’re planning on getting a new sofa, it’s worth asking the furniture store to take your old sofa. If the sofa is in good shape, they may be interested in reselling it. More than likely though, they’ll just haul it away for you as an incentive to make a deal with them.

Place an Ad Online

If your couch is in good condition, you may be able to get paid for it. Place an ad on Craigslist, eBay or your local newspaper to get the word out.

If the couch is not in great shape, your best bet is to list it in the “Free” section on Craigslist. Items in this section typically are claimed very quickly. Just be sure to mention in the ad whether or not you need someone to haul the couch away for you.

Leave It on the Curb

Simply putting your couch on the curb with a “Free” sign is a classic way to dispose of your couch. This works well if you live on a heavily trafficked street.

Don’t leave your couch on the street for more than two days, as it will become a neighborhood eyesore. If no one hauls it away, try another tactic on this list.

What If You Have Other Large Items to Dispose Of?

Many people, especially those getting a house ready to sell, have several large items or junk to dispose of.

In this case, consider holding a garage sale. A large number of people enthusiastically schedule their weekend mornings to attend garage sales looking for deals. Your trash just may be another person’s treasure.

If you’re really stuck with these items, your best bet may be to rent a waste container like these Hawkesbury skip bins from a junk removal company who will haul it away for you.

How to Throw Away a Couch: Wrapping It Up

If you’re unsure how to throw away a couch or other large items, consider your options.

If you don’t want to make money, consider a garage sale or listing the item in the classifieds. If you just want to get rid of the couch, you’re easiest options are to donate it to a thrift shop or list it in the “Free” section on Craigslist or simply put it on the curb with a “Free” sign.

If you found this article helpful, please check out our blog for other interesting articles focused on making your life easier.