Top Methods for Disposing of Furniture, Appliances, and More

Getting rid of old furniture, outdated applinces, or bulky household items isn’t always as simple as dragging them to the curb. Many cities—including Denver—have strict rules around bulk disposal, and the last thing you want is a fine or a pile of junk that sits for weeks. Luckily, there are smart, responsible ways to handle large-item disposal—and we’re here to break it all down for you.

At Big Ass Junk Removal, we specialize in stress-free, junk removal services in Denver. Whether you're clearing out a room or gutting a whole house, this guide covers the best methods for getting rid of your stuff the right way.

Why Responsible Disposal Matters

Tossing old furniture or appliances without thinking it through can hurt the environment—and your wallet. Here's why proper disposal is the smarter route:

Environmental Protection

When you dispose of items responsibly, you're doing more than just clearing space—you’re helping the planet. Recycling keeps bulky items out of landfills and reduces overall waste. Cities like Denver are aiming to divert half of their trash by 2030 through smarter recycling programs. Your old couch or fridge could be reused, repurposed, or recycled instead of becoming landfill clutter that harms ecosystems.

Avoid Fines

Tossing large items on the curb or in alleys may seem harmless, but in many cities, including Denver, it’s considered illegal dumping—and it’s expensive. In 2023 alone, Denver handled over 3,000 illegal dumping cases. Responsible disposal protects you from fines and keeps your neighborhood clean and safe. It's always better to schedule a proper pickup or use a professional service than risk paying for it later.

Give Back Locally

That gently used dresser or working microwave could make a big difference for someone in need. Donating usable furniture and appliances helps support shelters, nonprofits, and families who can’t afford new items. Instead of letting things go to waste, responsible disposal gives your belongings a second life while benefiting your community. It’s a win-win—you free up space and help someone else get back on their feet.

Mistakes to Avoid When Getting Rid of Big Items

Before we get into the best options, avoid these common slip-ups:

Dumping Without Permission

Leaving furniture or appliances on the curb without checking local rules can lead to fines—and annoyed neighbors. In many cities, it’s considered illegal dumping. Items left outside may sit for days, become eyesores, or attract pests. Always schedule a proper pickup, donation, or removal service. It’s not just about rules—it’s about keeping your neighborhood clean and respecting the community around you.

Tossing Hazardous Items

Items like fridges, AC units, and electronics often contain harmful materials—think refrigerants or lithium batteries—that can’t just be tossed in the bin. Dumping them improperly risks fines and environmental damage. The smart move? Call a certified recycler or a junk removal team that knows how to handle hazardous stuff the right way.

Skipping Recycling

It’s easy to forget how many parts of old furniture and appliances can be recycled. From metal frames to wooden panels and electrical wiring, there’s a lot that doesn’t need to end up in the landfill. Skipping recycling not only wastes valuable materials but also adds to growing environmental concerns. Take the extra step—recycle whenever possible or work with a company that does it for you.

How to Responsibly Dispose of Furniture

Old furniture doesn’t need to become landfill waste. Here are smart ways to give it a second life—or get it off your hands responsibly.

Donate Gently Used Pieces

If it’s clean and in good shape, someone else could use it. Reach out to:

• Goodwill
• The Salvation Army (free pickup in many cases)
• Habitat for Humanity ReStores

Always call ahead to confirm what they accept.

Sell or Give It Away

Not ready to trash that couch? Try selling or giving it away online:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• OfferUp
• Nextdoor
• Local “Buy Nothing” or “Freecycle” groups

Repurpose or Upcycle

Turn trash into treasure with a bit of creativity:

• Convert a dresser into a bathroom vanity
• Refinish a table with modern paint
• Reupholster a worn-out chair

Upcycling is not only fun—it keeps furniture out of landfills.

Hire a Junk Removal Company

If your furniture is damaged, worn, or just too heavy to deal with, call the pros.

At Big Ass Junk Removal, we make furniture removal quick, easy, and eco-friendly. We’ll donate or recycle what we can and responsibly dispose of the rest.

Why it works:

• Same-day and next-day pickup options
• No heavy lifting on your part
• We handle disposal the right way, every time

Best Ways to Get Rid of Old Appliances

Appliances require extra care because they can contain hazardous materials like refrigerants, oils, and metals. Here's how to deal with them safely:

Donate or Sell If They Still Work

• Habitat for Humanity and The Salvation Army often accept working appliances.
• Sell on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp.
• Ask friends or neighbors if they need a spare.

Trade It In for a Discount

Upgrading? Many retailers will take your old appliance off your hands when you buy a new one:

• Best Buy
• Home Depot
• Lowe’s

Bonus: Most will recycle it for you.

Check with Your City

Cities like Denver offer bulk item pickup services. You may need to schedule in advance or pay a small fee.

Tip: Not every city accepts appliances with refrigerants—always check first.

Recycle Through a Certified Facility

Appliances contain metals like copper and steel that can be recycled.

• Find certified recyclers that follow EPA guidelines.
• Remove hazardous materials before drop-off (or let the pros handle it).

Let Big Ass Junk Removal Handle It

Don’t want to deal with hauling or regulations? We’ve got you.

• Our appliance removal team picks up refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and more
• Hazardous materials are handled safely
• Recyclables are sorted properly

How to Get Rid of Mattresses, Electronics, and More

Not just furniture and appliances—there are responsible ways to dispose of other bulky household items too.

Mattress Disposal

Mattresses are big, heavy, and full of materials that need special recycling.

Options:

• Donate: If it’s clean and gently used, local shelters might take it.
• Recycle: Many cities (including Denver) have drop-off points just for mattresses.
• Junk Removal: We offer easy eco-friendly mattress removal with responsible recycling options.

Electronics (E-Waste)

TVs, computers, and other electronics can’t go in the trash.

Try:

• E-waste events: Cities often host free drop-offs.
• Retail recycling: Best Buy and Staples take back most electronics.
• Donate or sell: If it still works, someone else might want it.

Construction Debris & Household Junk

Doing a remodel? Have odds and ends piling up?

Solutions:

• Rent a dumpster for major projects
• Use local bulk pickup days
• Explore our construction debris hauling options for wood, drywall, concrete, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I dispose of old furniture?

Start by seeing if your furniture is still in good shape. If it is, donate it to a local charity or post it online to sell or give away. If it’s broken or too bulky, hiring a junk removal service is your best bet. Avoid leaving it on the curb—many cities require scheduled pickups and may issue fines for unauthorized dumping.

What’s the best way to get rid of appliances?

If your appliance still works, try selling or donating it. You can also trade it in at stores like Home Depot or Best Buy when purchasing a new one. For broken or outdated appliances, it’s safer to call a professional junk removal service that can handle hazardous materials properly and recycle what’s usable. This way, you stay safe and follow local disposal rules.

Can I recycle a mattress?

Absolutely. Many states and cities offer mattress recycling programs to keep bulky bedding out of landfills. If yours is in decent condition, consider donating it to a local shelter. Otherwise, contact a junk removal company to handle pick-up and responsible disposal. Mattresses contain materials like metal and foam that can be broken down and reused—just make sure it’s handled by the right facility.

What happens to my stuff after it’s picked up?

Once your items are collected, a reputable junk removal service will sort them for recycling, donation, or proper disposal. Usable furniture and appliances may go to local charities, while recyclable materials are sent to certified facilities. Only truly non-recyclable waste ends up in the landfill. At Big Ass Junk Removal, we prioritize eco-friendly practices so your junk doesn’t just disappear—it gets handled the right way.