When you donate furniture to Furniture Bank, you’re donating more than just a place to rest, study, or prepare a meal. Your donation helps to create a home, and to empower those who live within it. For this reason, we can only accept furnishings that are in good condition, and worthy of a home.
At Furniture Bank, we use the term gently used to describe furniture that’s suitable for transfer to individuals and families in need. But what does gently used mean, and how can you determine if your furniture is suitable for donation?
A good test is to ask yourself: would I give this furniture to a close family member? Gently used furniture is clean, functioning, and it doesn’t need repair. It doesn’t have to be modern or stylish – we cater to a range of clients with a range of tastes!
Here are some tips to help you determine if your furniture is suitable for donation:
Gently used describes furniture that…
- You would be happy to give to a close family member
- Is structurally sound
- Has no major stains, rips, or tears
- Is free of strong odours
- Has only minor marks or surface damage
- Is free of scratches or damage from pets
Small surface marks are ok, deep gouges are not
Light wear is ok, major damage is not
A missing button is ok, a big tear is not
Small bumps are ok, mold damage is not
Any style or pattern is ok, scratches from pets are not
If you’re still unsure, send us a photo of your furniture (highlighting any damage or significant wear), and we’re happy to asses it for you. Email your pictures to info@furniturebank.org or give us a call at 416.934.1229 x 2.
Is your gently used furniture ready to donate?
Great! You can simply click here to book a furniture pick up. Or you can always drop off at Furniture Bank’s facility in Etobicoke. Click here for drop off hours and location.
Is your furniture ready to be recycled or disposed of?
If your furniture isn’t in gently used condition, then check out our post Four Easy Ways to Get Rid of Junk and Unwanted Furniture for a comprehensive list of disposal
