Whether you’re downsizing, moving long distance, or combining households, if you have furniture you aren’t using anymore, figuring out how to get rid of it can be daunting. That doesn’t have to be the case. With the right information, getting unwanted furniture out of your way and out of your life.
Dos and Don’ts When it Comes to Furniture Removal:
Do: Donate Furniture in Good Condition
As the old saying goes, the poor are always with us. Many people who have lost homes to disasters, are fleeing abusive relationships, or are in otherwise difficult situations don’t have the financial resources to invest in even basic furnishings. Your old, unwanted (but still in good condition) items can help them achieve a decent quality of life. Donating to a charity or charity-run thrift store can also get you a donation credit, which can save you money on your taxes.
Do: Check if Your Community Has Large-Waste Pickup
Many municipalities have large-waste pickup days, which allow you a convenient way to dispose of unwanted large furniture. This may be the best option if you only have a few pieces to dispose of. However, there are some drawbacks. Community waste disposal may charge more than you want to pay for furniture removal, or may make a mess while loading your unwanted items into a standard garbage pickup truck (as large items can sometimes knock smaller pieces of trash out of the truck).
Do: Follow Hazardous Waste Disposal Rules
Though most furniture removal poses no threat to human health or the environment, some items may require special precautions. The chemical refrigerants contained inside most consumer-grade refrigerator coils, for example, are toxic and can easily contaminate the water table. California has some of the strictest health and environmental regulations in the country; disposes of hazardous waste in an improper manner can mean significant fines and even jail time. Save yourself and the planet some stress and follow the rules.
Don’t: Just Dump Your Stuff On the Curb or In a Dumpster
Most communities, including those in Marin County, have laws regarding proper furniture removal, and most private companies that serve the dumpsters at apartment complexes and public facilities have rules regarding dumping. Don’t be tempted to try DIY furniture removal using your curb or someone else’s dumpster. To do so may well be illegal and can cost you far more in fines than paying for proper, professional furniture removal would cost you.
Don’t: Donate Items From Smoking Homes
Many people searching for deals on furniture have health problems, including asthma and allergies. Even being around items removed from homes where people smoke can cause a reaction. You don’t want to be responsible for putting someone else’s health at risk. Also be aware that pets often have issues being around items that smell of cigarette smoke; dogs and cats have very sensitive noses, use scents to make sense of their world, and can suffer stress or health problems if exposed to persistent odors they aren’t familiar with or simply don’t like.
Don’t: Harm Yourself Lifting Your Furniture
Finally, don’t do DIY furniture removal if you have any back, leg, or other health problems that affect your ability to lift. Lifting heavy furniture can exacerbate (or sometimes even cause) serious back problems like slipped disks. Given how much health care costs in the current economy, DIY furniture removal isn’t worth it. What you save on a furniture removal service you’ll end up spending at the doctor.
For more information, contact us today. We’re ready and waiting to help you dispose of your unwanted items.