How to recycle

From old mattresses to computers, find out how you can get rid of bulky household goods without harming the environment

How to recycle furniture

Second hand furniture has always been a valuable commodity and can usually give years of use to someone else before it ends up in a skip. Be sure to clean and repair broken furniture before you sell or donate it.

Revamp it!
Try giving your old pieces a new lease of life; cover an old chair with an easy-to-make slip cover or transform your old furniture with a lick of fresh paint and some new handles, or combine pieces, such as a chest of drawers and shelving to create a new dresser.

Sell it
Ebay, car boot sales, auctions, classified ads and garage sales can be a great way to get rid of unwanted furniture. Try www.yourbooty.co.uk for a list of car boot sales in your area or check your local paper for listings.

Donate it
You can donate usable furniture to charity shops, schools, community centres, friends or neighbours. Check out the Furniture Reuse Network to find your nearest furniture reclaim facility.

The British Heart Foundation has extra large warehouses for storing furniture and they are always looking for fresh stock. They offer free collection and even run a house clearance service for a small charge. Give your local BHF Furniture and Electrical Store a call on 0844 412 5000.

Chosen by House to home

Related Features