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Whether you’re upgrading your space, moving homes, or simply decluttering, one question always comes up: “What should I do with my old furniture?”
Today, an increasing number of homeowners are seeking responsible and eco-friendly solutions for furniture disposal. Dumping furniture at the curb or into a landfill is no longer the go-to answer, especially when sustainability and social impact are top of mind.
So, how do you dispose of furniture without hurting the environment or your back?
In this article, we’ll walk you through five of the best ways to responsibly get rid of used furniture, whether it’s a well-loved recliner or a worn-out sofa.
We’ll also explore local Ottawa, Gatineau, and Kingston options, cost expectations, and insider tips from La-Z-Boy design consultant, Mitch Beaulieu, to make this transition easy and sustainable.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn how to sell, donate, recycle, or remove furniture responsibly
- Explore free community programs in Ottawa, Gatineau, and Kingston
- Understand which organizations accept furniture donations
- Discover local recycling services and disposal costs
- Find out how La-Z-Boy can assist with furniture removal services
- Perfect for those planning a furniture upgrade or home renovation
In This Article…
- Selling Used Furniture
- Giving Away Furniture for Free
- Donating Furniture to Local Charities
- Recycling and Junk Removal Services
- Using Store Furniture Delivery & Removal Services
- FAQ
1. Selling Used Furniture
Selling is often the first option that comes to mind—and with good reason. If your furniture is gently used and still in style, there’s a good chance someone out there wants it.
That said, condition matters.
Often, we get so used to our furniture items, we don’t see the imperfections that stick out like a sore thumb.
Mitch Beaulieu, a Sales Consultant at La-Z-Boy Kanata, explains, “We always tell customers, if you’re planning to sell your furniture online, make sure it’s clean and structurally sound. A quick vacuum or fabric refresher spray goes a long way in boosting appeal.”
Here are some platforms to list your furniture in Ottawa, Gatineau, or Kingston:
Pro Tip: Use long-tail keywords like “gently used sectional Ottawa” or “affordable recliner for sale in Gatineau” to attract serious buyers.
2. Giving Away Furniture for Free
If you’re not in it for the money and just want your old furniture gone, giving it away can be the simplest (and most generous) option.
Cities like Ottawa and Kingston host Giveaway Weekends, which let you place items curbside for others to pick up freely.
Giveaway Weekend is perfect for people who want to declutter quickly. It’s a great community program that helps reduce landfill waste while benefiting someone else.
You can check the next scheduled event in your city:
While Gatineau doesn’t currently run a city-wide curbside giveaway program like Ottawa, you can still give away items on hyper-local sites like:
- LesPAC Gatineau
- Local Facebook “Buy Nothing” or community swap groups
- Marketplace sections of Gatineau-focused neighbourhood apps like Nextdoor
3. Donating Furniture to Local Charities
If your old furniture is still in good condition, donating it can make a direct impact on a local family in need.
At La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston, we’ve proudly partnered with organizations like CHEO and other charities over the years to donate items whenever the opportunity arises.
Mitch Beaulieu shares, “While we don’t donate furniture directly at our showrooms, our team can often point customers toward the best local charities that accept furniture donations.”
Here are some trusted donation options:
Ottawa:
Kingston:
Gatineau:
We recommend contacting these organizations beforehand to ensure your items meet their guidelines and to confirm the availability of pickup services.
4. Recycling and Junk Removal Services
If your furniture is too damaged to sell, donate, or give away, recycling is your most environmentally friendly solution.
Many companies now specialize in eco-conscious junk removal, ensuring that reusable materials like wood, metal, and textiles are salvaged rather than dumped.
Recommended services in Ottawa, Gatineau, and Kingston include:
- Capital Junk
- Just Junk
- 1-800-GOT-JUNK
- Multi-Recyclage Gatineau
Most providers charge $90–$500, depending on item size, quantity, and labour.
5. Using Store Furniture Delivery & Removal Services
Planning to buy new furniture? Some retailers offer old furniture removal as part of the delivery service.
So, does La-Z-Boy remove your old furniture when delivering new pieces? Yes!
Mitch Beaulieu explains, “We offer removal services at La-Z-Boy for $50 per seat removed and $200 for mattresses. If you just need help moving furniture within your home, we offer that for $25 per item.”
This service is especially convenient if you’re buying a new La-Z-Boy sectional or recliner; it eliminates the extra coordination and ensures your furniture is handled with care.
FAQs About Removing Old Furniture
Q: What is the most sustainable way to get rid of old furniture?
A: Donating or giving furniture away during community events is the most eco-conscious choice if the item is still usable.
Q: Can furniture be recycled in Gatineau?
A: Yes. The ÉcoCentre offers furniture drop-off and recycling services for local residents. Multi-Recyclage is also available for eco-responsible removal.
Q: Who will pick up furniture donations for free in Ottawa or Gatineau?
A: Some nonprofits, like Helping With Furniture and Renaissance, may offer pickup depending on your location and item condition.
Q: Do furniture stores remove old furniture?
A: La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston do! For a small fee, we’ll take away your old furniture when delivering new pieces.
Q: What happens to furniture thrown in landfills?
A: Most materials take years to break down. Furniture in landfills can contribute to toxic leachate and unnecessary waste. Recycling or donating is a much better option.
What's Next?
Now that you know the best ways to responsibly remove old furniture, you're one step closer to transforming your living space in a sustainable, stress-free way.
If you’re interested in purchasing new furniture, visit one of our La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston showrooms to explore new furniture options. You can also schedule your visit online to meet with a design consultant.
Take advantage of our complimentary in-home design services to help you make the most of your refreshed space, no matter your style or budget.
If you’re interested in learning more about our furniture, take a look at our comprehensive Living Room Furniture Buyer’s Guide.
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