How to get rid of an old sofa in Swansea

1. The council bulky collection

Swansea Council collects one to three bulky items for £24, or four to six for £48. People on some benefits can get up to three half-price collections a year. You book online, by phone on 01792 635600 or at the Contact Centre, and you get an email within three working days confirming the date.

You have to put the sofa out at the kerb between 7pm the evening before and 7am on the day. The council won’t take items that are too heavy to lift safely.

2. Give it away

If it’s in good condition, someone may want it. Furniture reuse charities often collect for free, but they can only take upholstered furniture that still has its fire safety label attached.

3. Take it to a recycling centre yourself

Free for Swansea residents, but a sofa rarely fits in a car. If you use a van or trailer you’ll need the council’s free permit, and Llansamlet needs a booking. See our guide to the tip rules.

4. A skip

Often not an option now. Many skip firms refuse sofas or charge extra, because of the rules below.

5. A clearance firm

With us, a sofa or armchair is £65 collected, including carrying it out from upstairs. A three-piece suite is £185. Several items go on one load, which usually works out cheaper per item.

Why sofas are treated differently now

Natural Resources Wales requires waste upholstered domestic seating to be kept separate from other waste and destroyed by incineration. The foam, fabric and padding in older sofas can contain persistent organic pollutants from flame retardants that were once common. They mustn’t go to landfill or be recycled with other waste.

The rule covers sofas, sofa beds, armchairs, footstools, futons, bean bags, sofa cushions, and upholstered kitchen, dining and home office chairs. It doesn’t cover mattresses, curtains or bed frames.

What not to do

Don’t leave it on the pavement with a “free to a good home” sign and hope. After a while, councils can treat that as fly-tipping, and it’s your name on the problem.