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Furniture is a reuse category, not a recycling one: EPA measured 0.3 percent of it recycled and 80 percent landfilled. Sell, donate, or repair whatever still works, calling the specific charity first because acceptance is set store by store. All-metal pieces go to a scrap yard. Everything else, including finished wood and flat-pack panel, is disposal-only. Before you go, confirm that a local recycling center accepts the material in its current condition.
- Recycling route
- Special handling
Wooden, metal, and upholstered furniture around the home. See the full furniture guides for the details that differ by material.
Where to Recycle
- Donation centers
- Scrap metal yards (metal parts)
- Bulky-item pickup
- Architectural salvage
How to Prepare
- 1Call the donation location before loading anything, since policies vary by store
- 2Photograph and measure the piece for donation or resale
- 3Unscrew hardware and metal frames so the metal can be scrapped
- 4Take off cushions, fabric, and glass
- 5Book bulky-item pickup for whatever nobody will take
Special Instructions
Solid wood and antiques hold resale value; upholstered pieces are the most refused donation category, and finished or treated wood is rejected by clean-wood recyclers.
Environmental Impact
Only about 0.3 percent of US furniture is recycled, so keeping a piece in service is the whole opportunity. Metal components are the exception with a genuine recycling stream.
Sustainable Alternatives
- Repair or refinish
- Donate to charity
- Sell online
- Give away on community boards
Official guidance and resources
Accepted items and drop-off rules can vary by location. Check the destination before you go.
Related recycling guides
- How to recycle Wooden Furniture
- How to recycle Upholstered Furniture
- How to recycle Metal Furniture
- How to recycle Office Furniture
- How to recycle Textiles/Clothing
- How to recycle Fluorescent Bulbs
- How to recycle Small Appliances
- How to recycle LED Light Bulbs
- How to recycle Large Appliances
- How to recycle Makeup Containers
Recycle furniture
Search recycling centers by city or ZIP, or explore more household materials.