How to Recycle Upholstered Furniture
Sofas, armchairs, recliners, and other fabric-covered seating furniture containing foam, springs, and various textiles. Complex construction makes recycling challenging, but component separation allows for material recovery. Quality pieces have significant reuse value if clean and structurally sound.
- 1Check furniture for bed bugs, fleas, or other pest infestations
- 2Clean thoroughly with upholstery cleaner or steam cleaning
- 3Remove loose cushions and pillows for separate handling
- 4Check frame stability and note any structural damage
- 5Take detailed photos showing condition for donation listings
- 6Remove pet hair and odors as much as possible
- 7Measure dimensions to ensure fit through doorways and transport
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore (good condition only)
- Local homeless shelters and transitional housing
- Furniture banks serving families in need
- Upholstery shops that refurbish and resell
- Specialized furniture recycling facilities
- Municipal bulk waste programs
Many donation centers will not accept upholstered furniture with stains, odors, or pest issues. Call ahead to verify acceptance criteria. Some recyclers can separate components even from damaged pieces.
Upholstered furniture contains valuable materials including hardwood frames, steel springs, and recyclable foam. Reuse prevents the manufacturing impact equivalent to 150-300 pounds of raw materials per piece. However, disposal challenges mean 85% currently goes to landfills.
- Reupholster with new fabric for fresh look
- Use frames for DIY furniture projects after removing fabric
- Donate to animal shelters for pet furniture (if clean)
- Repurpose springs and hardware for craft projects
Accepted
- Clean sofas and sectionals in good condition
- Armchairs and recliners without major wear
- Upholstered dining chairs with solid frames
- Ottomans and footstools
- Clean bench seating and love seats
Not Accepted
- Furniture with bed bug or flea infestations
- Pieces with strong odors or extensive staining
- Furniture with broken frames or springs
- Items with torn or extensively damaged upholstery
- Furniture that has been in flood or fire damage
Estimated value: $25-200 for quality pieces in good condition
- Flame retardants in foam (older furniture)
- VOCs from synthetic materials
- Pest control chemicals (if treated)
- Lead in springs or frame paint (pre-1978)
How do I know if my upholstered furniture contains harmful flame retardants?
Furniture manufactured between 1975-2013 likely contains chemical flame retardants. Look for TB117 labels or foam that crumbles easily. While not immediately dangerous, consider this when deciding between donation and disposal.
Can furniture with pet damage be donated or recycled?
Minor pet hair is acceptable for most recyclers, but furniture with urine stains, strong odors, or claw damage is typically rejected by donation centers. Some animal shelters may accept lightly damaged pieces for their use.
What's the best way to transport large upholstered furniture for donation?
Measure all doorways and transport vehicle first. Wrap in blankets or plastic to protect during transport. Many donation centers offer pickup services for $50-100, which may be worth the convenience and ensures professional handling.
Is it worth reupholstering old furniture versus buying new?
Quality frames with good bones are often worth reupholstering ($300-800) versus buying new ($500-2000+). Consider frame quality, sentimental value, and current condition. Antique or well-made pieces typically justify the investment.