At some point in your life, you have likely decided to part ways with an old sofa, coffee table, or chest of drawers. In most cases, there’s nothing wrong with the piece in question; it just no longer fits your space or style-or the space or style of your new spouse.
Opt to Sell
Often during the process of selecting a new item, the conversation turns to what to do with the old one. Selling is always an option. However, that endeavor can be more trouble than it’s worth. Do you sell online or host a garage sale? Either way, rarely does the seller get anything close to the item’s retail value.
Donate to Your Community
A better option for many is to simply donate the unwanted furniture. In addition to taking the piece off your hands, it could be a good deed at the very least, or potentially even a tax write off. Most people aren’t aware that many charitable organizations collect used furniture donation in some cases, providing gently used furniture to those in need, or in other cases, refinishing and selling it to raise money to support their community efforts.
Everyone has heard the old adage, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” How nice to know that in addition to clearing out space in your home, your donation can help settle and support a family or provide much-needed financial assistance to an organization that works to stretch every dollar. It almost doesn’t get easier to invest in your community!
Consider the Environmental Impact
If this is still not enough to convince you, consider the environmental impact. If every old armchair or dining table was merely discarded, think of all the landfills that would subsequently be full of used furniture. You are only doing yourself and the planet a service when you instead choose to give new life to that old furniture.
Once you’ve made the decision to donate, you’ll need to do some research to find out what organizations in your area are accepting used furniture, and if they pick up or they require a drop off. Once you coordinate how they will receive the items, be sure to ask if you can have a receipt for your tax-deductible donation. It may also be worthwhile to consider organizing a group effort, urging others in your office, church, or community to join in and host a donation drive.
Finally, if you’re already on-site donating to a secondhand shop, consider taking a look around to see what others have passed on that you could use. Something they let go of could be just what you’re looking for to complete your vision. Purchasing from these types of stores is just as helpful as donating. You’re supporting a cause and keeping cast off items from ending up in a landfill. Who knew used furniture could be so valuable! Whatever you decide, just knowing the options can be all the freedom you need to redecorate that space.
