Moving can be tiresome and expensive, which is why many may choose to leave things behind. Moreover, moving can inspire a deep declutter that you have delayed for years, and there’s no better feeling than letting go of old things. But, finding a place that will accept your donations can be a challenge, especially if you are moving on short notice. We can help you learn where to discard furniture in NYC.

There are ways to be mindful when dumping or discarding your furniture. You can call a junk removal service like 1-800-GOT-JUNK, who can come to your doorstep and pick it up for a fee. But, if you think someone may want your stuff, you can leave your furniture curbside.

How to Get Rid of Furniture (and other belongings) in NYC

In most Brooklyn neighborhoods, leaving your unwanted clothes, books, or furniture on the curb with a “FREE” sign is acceptable. Your neighbors and others who walk by will know that they can take what they want. However, if you’d like to organize your donations before you move, here are some places in Brooklyn (and the greater NYC area) that accept donations:

Donating Furniture to NYC Thrift Stores: 

There are several thrift stores that accept old furniture and clothes. Some of the most popular options are Thrift Stores like Goodwill, Housing Works, Salvation Army.

Not all thrift stores will accept everything. Be sure to research what thrift stores in your area accept what. For instance, NY & NJ Goodwill’s do not accept larger items like Furniture, Baby Cribs, Carpets or Box Springs. Therefore, be sure to check with your local store before you drop off your belongings there. However, Housing Works and the Salvation Army not only accept furniture but can also offer free pick up. You can call them to schedule a time that works for you.

Other independent thrift stores in Brooklyn like The Big Reuse will accept furniture and larger times.You can also try Out of the Closet to take your books, clothes, and housewares.

Donations are typically tax-deductible, so remember to ask for a 501c3 donation receipt.

Donating to Charities & Religious Organizations:

There are many local charities that repurpose your old stuff, particularly in Brooklyn. Bushwick Ayuda Mutua is a local organization based in Bushwick that accepts donations of just about everything ranging from refrigerators to air conditioners, to microwaves to diapers. Be sure to reach out to them beforehand and notify them of what you intend to donate here.

There are several religious charity organizations in Brooklyn that also host monthly donation drives. St. Mary’s Clothing Drive hosted at St. Mary’s Church in Clinton Hill will take your linens, towels, clothes and bedding. The Congregation Beth Elohim is a Jewish Synagogue that runs a refugee task force. They host a donation drive for refugees and asylum seekers. They are currently asking for metrocards, food, and toiletries.

Donating to Shelters (for food, books, hygiene products, clothes, makeup):

Shelters are a great place to donate your food and toiletries. CHiPS in Brooklyn is a food bank that is usually accepting food and snack donations. This can be a great option if you have pantry items that you don’t intend to bring with you on your move.

The Bowery Mission in Downtown Manhattan is a historic homeless shelter that accepts clothes, linens, towels, hygiene items, and food. The Bowery Mission typically accepts donations from Monday – Saturday, but be sure to double check with their schedule online.

There are other shelters around the city that make requests for other items. To find a longer list of Women’s Shelters in NYC, check here. Be sure to inquire with these organizations to see if they are currently accepting donations (female toiletries, make-up, baby products, clothes).

Other Resources:

DonateNYC is an excellent resource for figuring out where to donate or discard old belongings like office furniture, houseware, and clothes.

Buy Nothing Project is a Facebook group for recycling and donating furniture and other goods. It is a localized project to connect with people in your neighborhood. Be sure to find the Buy Nothing group designated for your area.

FreeCYCLE is a similar type of project to Buy Nothing NYC. You can join and see items in your area that people no longer want. You can also post your furniture or food or just about anything that you are willing to give away. If you want any items, like a garbage can, you can also put a ‘Wanted’ ad up.

Can I sell my furniture?

If you don’t want to discard furniture or donate it, you can also try and sell it. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are good options for selling furniture locally. Another place to sell furniture online is through sites like Offerup, Charish, Kaiyo, AptDeco or Etsy.

When it comes to clothes, try Buffalo Exchange, Beacon’s Closet, Crossroads or a local consignment shop. Typically, these stores will only accept good quality pieces or items from luxury brands.

How do I move my furniture?

If you need to discard furniture in NYC, furniture movers can help with the heavy lifting. Letting go of old furniture can also help make your move more affordable, especially if you are moving long distance.

You can hire Brooklyn Movers or NYC Moving Companies to dispose of individual items like large furniture, pianos, or other bulky items on your move. Be sure to inquire with a local mover in your area for an estimate.

At Two Guys And a Truck Moving, we can dispose of many furniture items that you do not want. Based on the items for disposal, your Foreman will give you the final price on the job site. If not pre-arranged, in most cases, we will take it away immediately after the move. We can also help you take things to the curb to leave for recycling. There is no extra charge to place items on the curb/street side, and it will just be a part of the hourly time. Contact us for an estimate for your residential or office/commercial moves in NYC and beyond.