Damaged, worn, and outdated furniture can be a hassle to get rid of, but there are plenty of alternatives to throwing it away.
Reuse furniture
When it no longer fits your lifestyle, consider selling, donating or giving away old furniture so someone can reuse it.
Many thrift stores accept furniture for resale, and some nonprofits such as Bridging redistribute used furniture to people in need.
You can also try to sell or give furniture away on neighborhood social media sites such as Facebook garage sale groups, Nextdoor and Craigslist. And don’t forget to check these places first when looking for replacement or new-to-you furniture.
Repair furniture
When breaks, surfaces get scratched, or upholstery tears, try getting to repair furniture instead of replacing it.
There are dozens of businesses in Hennepin County and the greater metro area that can repair furniture and get yours looking new and functioning again. The Hennepin County Fix-It Clinics offer free advice and assistance on repairs of household goods, including furniture.
Even when items don’t seem fixable, check with an furniture repair business first before you get rid of it – you may be surprised at what can be repaired.
Repurpose furniture
When furniture is outdated or you decide you like the shape but not the look, you can repurpose it.
Wooden chairs, tables and bookshelves can take on a whole new look with a simple coat of paint. Dressers can be transformed from drab to chic with some paint and new hardware. Upholstered furniture can be reupholstered or even painted for a new look and feel. Repurposed furniture may be cheaper than buying new.
Outdated pieces can also be transformed into new uses. For example, a dresser or table can be converted into a bathroom vanity, or a cabinet can become a kitchen island. Look online for ideas and instructions on how to repurpose furniture.
When repurposing furniture, or if you are building from scratch, look for used materials at the numerous used building material businesses in the area.
Whether it’s reuse, repair or repurpose, you’ll find lots of options for making furniture usable again on Hennepin County’s Choose to Reuse directory.