Moving out of an apartment can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to figuring out what to do with all your furniture and belongings. The last thing you want is to leave unwanted furniture behind, either because you’re not sure how to get rid of it or because you’re too busy packing up the rest of your stuff. But leaving old furniture behind can create a hassle for you and your landlord, potentially leading to additional cleaning charges or even penalties.
To help you make a smooth transition and avoid unnecessary costs, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly get rid of furniture when moving out of your apartment.
1. Evaluate What You Really Need
Before you start hauling out your furniture, take some time to evaluate what you actually want to keep. Ask yourself:
- Does this piece still fit my new space? If your new place is smaller or has a different layout, your current furniture may not be practical or stylish.
- Is it in good condition? Furniture that’s worn out, damaged, or simply not functional may be better off disposed of rather than moved.
- Does it have sentimental or resale value? If a piece is in good shape and could sell, it may be worth holding onto. But if it’s just taking up space and has little value, it’s time to let go.
This will help you narrow down what you actually need to move and what can be removed from your list of belongings.
2. Donate or Sell Your Furniture
If your furniture is still in good condition but you no longer have a use for it, consider donating or selling it. Many people are looking for affordable second-hand furniture, and you can help them while decluttering your space.
- Donate: Reach out to local charities, shelters, or second-hand stores. Many organisations offer free pick-up services for large items like couches, tables, and chairs. Charities like the Salvation Army or Vinnies often accept donations of furniture and household items in good condition.
- Sell: If you think your furniture could make a bit of extra cash, try selling it on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or eBay. You could also consider holding a moving sale or taking the furniture to a second-hand store that buys used pieces.
Selling or donating furniture also saves you from the hassle and cost of disposal while helping others.
3. Arrange for a Junk Removal Service
If you’ve decided your furniture is no longer worth keeping, donating, or selling, it’s time to consider junk removal services. A junk removal company can take care of your unwanted furniture quickly and responsibly, ensuring it’s disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.
- Same-Day Service: Many junk removal companies offer same-day or next-day service, meaning you don’t have to wait around for days to have your furniture hauled away.
- Eco-Friendly Disposal: Look for companies that prioritise recycling and donate reusable items. They’ll sort through your discarded furniture and make sure as much as possible is reused or recycled, minimising waste in landfills.
- Convenience: Junk removal companies handle all the heavy lifting for you, saving you time and effort. You simply need to schedule a pickup, and they’ll come to your apartment and take care of the rest.
4. Hire a Skip Bin for Large Loads
If you have a lot of large furniture items that need to be disposed of (especially after a big move-out), renting a skip bin might be the best option. You can fill the bin at your own pace, and it will be picked up once it’s full.
- Choose the Right Size: Skip bins come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that suits the amount of furniture you need to get rid of. For larger items like couches and mattresses, a medium to large-sized bin is typically ideal.
- Convenience: Skip bins allow you to declutter your space in your own time and avoid multiple trips to the dump or recycling centre. They also make it easy to dispose of other unwanted items alongside your furniture.
- Waste Sorting: Some skip bin services offer sorting for recyclables, so you can ensure that as much of your discarded furniture and waste is recycled as possible.
5. Take Advantage of Local Council Pickup Services
Depending on where you live, your local council may offer bulk waste collection services for larger items like furniture. Most councils provide periodic collection services for free or for a small fee, which can be a great option when moving out.
- Check with Your Council: Contact your local council to see if they provide bulk waste pickup and what the guidelines are. Some councils allow you to schedule a pickup in advance, while others may have a designated day for these collections.
- Know the Limits: Make sure you’re aware of any size limits, item restrictions, and collection schedules. Some councils may only collect certain types of furniture or set limits on how much they’ll take at one time.
6. Upcycle or Repurpose Furniture
If you have a piece of furniture that’s still sturdy but no longer fits your style, consider upcycling it instead of throwing it away. With a little creativity, you can give your old furniture a new lease on life. For example:
- Refinish a wooden table by sanding it down and applying a fresh coat of paint or stain.
- Turn an old dresser into a stylish TV unit or use old chairs for a garden project.
- Repurpose parts: If the item is beyond repair, consider salvaging materials like wood, metal, or fabric for use in other DIY projects.
Upcycling not only helps you avoid sending furniture to the landfill but also provides you with a unique piece for your new home.
7. Ensure Everything is Removed Before You Leave
Before you officially hand over the keys and move out of your apartment, make sure everything is removed—including large furniture. Leaving behind furniture could result in extra charges from your landlord or property manager, and it’s generally considered poor form.
- Check the Lease Agreement: Some leases have clauses that specifically require you to return the property in a certain condition, including removing all personal belongings and furniture.
- Do a Final Walkthrough: Take a last walk through your apartment to ensure everything is removed, and the space is clean and tidy. This will help you avoid any unexpected deductions from your security deposit.
In Summary
When moving out of your apartment, don’t leave furniture behind! Whether you choose to donate, sell, recycle, or hire a junk removal service, there are plenty of ways to dispose of your large items responsibly. By taking the time to plan ahead and choose the right disposal method, you can make your move-out process smoother and avoid additional costs. Plus, you’ll be helping the environment by making sure your old furniture is disposed of properly or repurposed for new use!