Guest post by Peter Jones, Furniture Bank Content Creation Volunteer
In Toronto, there are dozens of fast, affordable, and environmentally-minded organizations that will remove your junk and unwanted furniture. Not all junk removal services are the same, so which should you choose?
If you’re prepared to do some heavy lifting, consider using City of Toronto’s curbside collection – it’s free for many items. If you have junk that needs to be moved quickly, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? offers same-day junk removal service. If your unwanted furnishings are in good condition, consider the Furniture Bank. In addition to providing you with a tax receipt for the value of your furniture, Furniture Bank transfers your donations to an individual or family in need.
Here’s a comparison chart to help you decide what the best option is for your junk removal and unwanted furniture needs.
| Furniture Bank | 1-800-GOT-JUNK? | City of Toronto | |
| Areas served | GTA | GTA and 19 other Canadian cities | Toronto |
| Items accepted | Gently used household furnishings. | Household, office, and other non-hazardous junk. | Furniture, electronics, appliances, and non-hazardous waste. |
| Collection procedure | Can collect from inside of premises. | Can collect from inside or outside of premises. | Items must be moved to curbside for collection. |
| Express service available? | Yes. Pickup with 72 hours. | Yes. Same-day service available. | No. Collection takes place every two weeks. |
| What happens to collected items? | All gently used furniture is transferred to individuals and families in need. | More than 60% of items are recycled or donated. Remainder is sent to landfill. | Items are recycled where possible. Remainder is sent to landfill. |
| Cost to drop off? | Free | Drop off not available | $20 for first 95kg of waste. $0.11 per additional kg. |
| Cost for pickup? | Calculated on volume and pickup location. Starting at $100. Approx. $120 for 3-person sofa and a chest of drawers and you’ll get a tax receipt for your donated items. |
Calculated on volume. Starting at $156 Approx. $256 for 3-person sofa and a chest of drawers (1/4 truck). |
No charge for curbside collection of large items, green waste, or recyclable materials. There is a fee for general waste that exceeds your bin’s capacity. |
| For a quote or to book a Pickup: | Call 416-934-1229 EXT. #2 or visit furniturebank.org | Call 1-800-468-5865 | Visit www.toronoto.ca for collection schedule |
