Disposing of old furniture is not a straightforward task in many cities in the US because there are certain rules and regulations you may have to follow. The reason for throwing away furniture, be it a couch, mattress, or any electronic items, could be moving to a smaller home, upgrading the furniture, or decluttering. Throwing away bigger furniture like a couch gets more difficult because you can’t expect a normal pickup by merely setting it out on the curb. In this article, we primarily focus on exploring different options to throw away a couch.
Things to Know Before Throwing Away a Couch
It’s essential to understand a few things before getting rid of the couch. The first step is to inspect the condition of the couch for any stains, mold infestation, bed bugs, or any other structural problems. If the sofa is infested with mildew bed bugs or termites, you shouldn’t sell it, donate it, or plan for recycling. If infestation is intense, then the only option left is to landfill.
What Are the Different Ways to Throw Away a Couch?
Let’s explore various options to get rid of the couch, which is a tough task.
Hire a Junk Removal Service
A very convenient way to get rid of a couch is to call a junk removal service. Though it costs a bit, it makes the work easy as they come to pick up items from the doorstep. Therefore, there’s no hassle of lifting heavy couches. Their charges vary depending on the weight, the junk removal company you opt for, and the distance between your home and the dumping site.
Approximate cost: The cost ranges between $100- $850.
Rent a Dumpster
Another option to throw away a couch is to rent a roll-off dumpster, which is affordable and available in various sizes, which gives you the option to choose based on the size of the couch. It also gives flexibility to leave the furniture outside your home for them to pick it up.
Approximate cost: The price varies from $279 to $795, depending on the container you choose. However, the average cost is $472 to hire a 20-yard dumpster.
Donation
One of the hassle-free options is to donate your couch to a non-profit organization that either gives away the items at a minimal price to people in dire need or sells them and donates the sale proceeds to a special cause. The added advantage is that you can claim tax deductions on the donation made on the basis of the receipt issued by these organizations.
Approximate cost: No charges
Online Selling
You can consider selling your couch on online platforms as well, such as Craiglist, Facebook, Marketplace, or OfferUp. The advantage of online selling is that the buyer picks up the item, and the disposal cost is low, so you are exempted from the hassle of handling a heavy couch. However, make sure the couch is in usable condition.
Approximate cost: No charges
Explore Local Scrap Yards
Contact a scrap dealer and enquire about their rules. Some scrap dealers may ask you to dismantle the parts of the couch for easy transportation. You may have to remove fabric and other materials and even dismantle the frame. The last thing to do is ask for the exact dropping time from the dealer to ensure they receive the item. The advantages are scrap dealers may pay for materials and it’s an eco-friendly approach.
Approximate cost: No charges; the dealer may pay for material
Curbside Giveaway
Leaving the couch at the curb is another option to help you get rid of the old couch. However, check the rules and the disposal time to avoid any penalty. Also, check with municipal and trash companies if they charge extra for extra trash. The biggest advantage is that it is hassle-free and, most of the time, free of cost.
Approximate cost: In case there’s a charge in your area, it will range between $0- $50 per item.
Dump Couch at a Local Landfill
Another affordable option to get rid of the couch is to dump it at a local landfill. Some charge a nominal amount, whereas others take it for free on certain days, but you will have to arrange for a pickup truck to load and unload the couch. It’s advisable to check their disposal days and the time. Also, check with the landfill about the restrictions on accepting certain furniture. If the couch also falls under the restricted category, you may have to explore other options.
Approximate cost: It ranges between $20-$30 per item or $30-$50 per ton.
