How to Recycle Metal Furniture
Patio sets, office chairs, bed frames, and other furniture made primarily of steel, aluminum, or iron. Highly recyclable with significant scrap value, especially aluminum pieces. Metal furniture is durable and weather-resistant, making it valuable for reuse applications.
- 1Remove all non-metal components like cushions, fabric, and plastic
- 2Separate different metal types (aluminum, steel, iron) when possible
- 3Remove rust and clean surfaces for better recycling value
- 4Disassemble pieces to maximize transport efficiency
- 5Remove any glass components like table tops
- 6Sort hardware and fasteners into separate containers
- 7Check for any lead paint on older pieces (pre-1978)
- Scrap metal dealers and recycling centers
- Patio furniture specialty stores (trade-in programs)
- Municipal metal recycling programs
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore for quality pieces
- Online marketplaces for resale (Facebook, Craigslist)
- Consignment shops specializing in outdoor furniture
Metal furniture recycling saves 95% of the energy required to produce new aluminum and 74% for steel. One aluminum patio set can offset the environmental impact of producing 5-6 new aluminum pieces. Metal recycling reduces mining waste and greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
- Restore with rust removal and fresh paint
- Repurpose frames for garden structures or art projects
- Use as parts for other metal furniture repairs
- Convert office chairs into workshop or garage seating
Accepted
- Aluminum patio sets and outdoor furniture
- Steel bed frames and headboards
- Metal office chairs and desk frames
- Iron outdoor benches and decorative pieces
- Metal shelving units and storage racks
- Stainless steel outdoor furniture
Not Accepted
- Metal furniture with extensive lead paint
- Pieces heavily contaminated with oils or chemicals
- Furniture with significant rust compromise (structural integrity)
- Items with asbestos insulation or components
- Mixed-material pieces that cannot be separated
Estimated value: $0.50-2.00 per pound for aluminum, $0.05-0.15 per pound for steel
How can I tell the difference between aluminum and steel furniture?
Use a magnet - steel will be attracted, aluminum will not. Aluminum is typically lighter and doesn't rust like steel. Aluminum furniture often has a brighter, more reflective finish when new.
Is it worth separating different types of metal before recycling?
Yes! Aluminum commands much higher prices ($0.50-2.00/lb) than steel ($0.05-0.15/lb). Even 15 minutes of separation can significantly increase your recycling payment for larger furniture pieces.
Can I recycle metal furniture that has some rust?
Light surface rust is fine for recycling and doesn't significantly affect value. Heavy rust that compromises structural integrity may reduce value but is still recyclable. Clean off loose rust for better handling and pricing.
What should I do with the cushions from metal outdoor furniture?
Remove all cushions before metal recycling. Clean, good-condition cushions can be donated separately or sold. Worn cushions should go to textile recycling or regular waste disposal.