Have you held onto that weathered patio set since the late 90s, long after the cushions ripped and faded beyond recognition? While the memories of lazy summer afternoons and laughter with friends remain, it’s high time to finally give those old chairs and tables the goodbye they deserve. But before you throw them straight into the dumpster or list them lazily on the curb, properly dispose of patio furniture. The proper disposal method is better for the environment and can sometimes prevent valuable materials from ending up in a landfill prematurely.
Whether you’re simply getting rid of an old, worn out set or moving across the country and can’t take it, here are a few ways to safely dispose of your old patio furniture.
In this post, we’ll explore several responsible options for how to dispose of old patio furniture.
What Will You Need?
First things first, gather the necessary tools and materials before attempting to dispose of your old patio furniture. Depending on the size and weight of your set, you may need more or less manpower to get the job done.
- Heavy-duty gloves
- A saw (if breaking down large pieces)
- A vehicle for transport (if taking it to a disposal center)
Once you have these items ready, you can begin the process of disposing of your old patio furniture.
10 Easy Steps on How to Dispose of Old Patio Furniture
Step 1. Donate
One of the best ways to dispose of old patio furniture is to donate it. You can donate your furniture to a local charity or thrift store or list it on a website such as Freecycle or Craigslist. Donating your furniture will not only help someone in need, but it will also save you time and money as you won’t have to pay disposal fees.
Step 2. Re-purpose
Another option for disposing of old patio furniture is to re-purpose it. This could include repainting and using the furniture in another area of your home, such as an office or bedroom. Alternatively, you could use the pieces to create something new, like a planter box or outdoor bench. Re-purposing your old furniture is an eco-friendly way to eliminate it while still making good use of the materials.
Step 3. Recycle
If you want to avoid donating or re-posting your old patio furniture, recycling may be the best option. Many cities and towns now offer curbside pickup for items like patio furniture, so check with your local government to see what services are available in your area. If curbside pickup isn’t available, then look into other recycling options, such as drop-off centers or specialized recyclers that accept these types of items.
Step 4. Sell
Should your old patio furniture still be in decent condition, consider selling it. Websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or even a garage sale can be effective ways of disposal. Not only does this method prevent waste, but it also allows you to recover some of the initial cost.
Step 5. Give Away to Friends or Family
Your outdated patio set is the perfect addition to a friend or family member’s outdoor space. Giving away your old furniture clears up space at your home and helps others who might need it. But remember to ensure they want the furniture before you pass it on!
Step 6. Contact a Junk Removal Service
If your patio furniture is beyond repair or reuse, contacting a junk removal service might be the best option. Many of these services will pick up and properly dispose of or recycle your furniture for a fee. This option is handy for heavy or bulky items that are difficult to transport.
Step 7. Dispose at a Local Waste Facility
If you need help with the above options, consider taking your old patio furniture to a local waste facility. Many waste facilities offer disposal services for larger items like furniture. However, make sure to check with your local facility about their policy on furniture disposal. Some facilities may require that you disassemble the furniture before dropping it off. This option usually entails a fee but ensures your old patio furniture is disposed of correctly.
Step 8. Host a Yard Sale
If you have multiple pieces of old patio furniture or other items in your home that you’re looking to get rid of, hosting a yard sale could be a viable solution. This option allows you to potentially earn some money from your old furniture while also giving it a chance at a second life in a new home. Be sure to price items fairly and openly communicate any damage or wear to potential buyers.
Step 9. Use a Furniture Disposal Service
Furniture disposal services are professionals who specialize in removing and disposing of large household items, including old patio furniture. These services typically operate by coming to your home, loading the furniture onto a truck, and then disposing of it in an environmentally friendly way. Fees usually depend on the size and weight of the furniture, so be sure to inquire about the cost before scheduling a pickup.
Step 10. Dispose Through a Retailer
Some furniture retailers offer a disposal service when you buy a new piece of furniture from them. This can be particularly handy if you’re replacing your old patio set with a new one. They’ll often take the old set away for you when they deliver the new one, saving you the hassle of having to dispose of it yourself. Check with the retailer at the time of purchase to see if this option is available.
Following these steps, you can safely and responsibly dispose of your old patio furniture. Always consider options like donation or repurposing before simply throwing it away, as these methods are more environmentally friendly and can benefit others.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
Tip 1. Upcycle into a DIY Project
Turn your old patio furniture into a fun DIY project. With some creativity and basic tools, you can transform your outdated furniture into something wholly new and unique. Check out online tutorials or explore Pinterest for inspiration.
Tip 2. Consider the Material
When disposing of your patio furniture, consider the material it’s made from. If it’s made of metal, wood, or plastic, specific recycling options may be available. Research the best methods for disposing of your particular type of furniture to ensure you’re being as environmentally friendly as possible.
Tip 3. Consult with Local Laws and Regulations
Some cities or states have regulations on how items like patio furniture can be disposed of. Be sure to check with your local government before taking any action to avoid potential fines or penalties.
Tip 4. Take Safety Precautions
Old patio furniture can be heavy and potentially dangerous, especially in disrepair. Always wear protective gear such as gloves and closed-toe shoes when handling and disposing of old furniture.
Tip 5. Don’t Forget About the Cushions
Remember to consider the cushions when disposing of your old patio furniture. You can donate them or use them for another outdoor seating area if they’re still in good condition. Otherwise, check with your local waste facility for proper disposal methods. Overall, many options are available for responsibly disposing of old patio furniture.
By exploring these options and considering factors like material and safety, you can ensure that your furniture is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Avoid Illegal Dumping: Illegal dumping of old patio furniture harms the environment and can lead to heavy fines and penalties. Ensure you follow local laws and regulations when disposing of your old furniture.
2. Don’t Overlook Potential Hazards: Old furniture often becomes home to pests or contains rusted parts and sharp edges. Be mindful of these potential dangers when handling and disposing of old patio furniture.
3. Avoid Neglecting the Material Type: Different materials require different disposal methods. Incorrect disposal methods can harm the environment, so research the best way to dispose of your specific type of patio furniture.
4. Don’t Dispose of Donatable Furniture: If your patio furniture is still in good condition, don’t just throw it away. Consider donating it to a charity or giving it to someone who can use it.
5. Avoid Overcharging When Selling: If you decide to sell your furniture, ensure you’re pricing it reasonably. Charging for used furniture can deter potential buyers and make it easier for you to get rid of the items.
By avoiding these mistakes and following responsible disposal methods, you can effectively dispose of your old patio furniture without causing harm to the environment or incurring any penalties.
Conclusion
All in all, how to dispose of old patio furniture can be an easy process if approached correctly. Depending on the condition of the furniture, you have different options in terms of disposal approaches – donating, recycling, or even repurposing them around your home. If you need to take it to the dump dispatcher or recycling station, make sure to call ahead and find out what time they are open.
To ensure that you’re taking a sustainable approach to removing your old outdoor furniture, research their materials and determine the best course of action for each piece. In any case, you can feel assured that it is possible to dispose of materials like patio furniture responsibly – just remember to use caution and check local regulations before taking action.
So don’t wait – get started on giving your old patio furniture its well-deserved rest today!