Moving can be a stressful time especially if you’re packing and organizing your belongings in addition to working. One of the most stressful (and sometimes expensive) tasks is getting rid of unwanted items and large furniture. Now with COVID out in the world, many organizations are no longer accepting donations. 

To avoid some of the headaches we have compiled a current 2022 list of the ‘go- to’ local organizations and companies that will accept your donations, as well as some tips to help you sell your unwanted items.

SELL YOUR STUFF ONLINE

A quick and easy way to sell your items online is to use Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or Kijiji.

Do you belong to your local community group page, such as Facebook’s “Share Freely New West”? You can also create a post in Marketplace for items that you are giving away for free.

• Make sure to include photos (show any damage!) and a brief description of each item. That will eliminate e-mails or calls from prospective buyers wanting more details.
• Add ‘OBO’ (Or Best Offer) if you are flexible on the price.
• Update your post daily (if possible) to keep your ad current. Don’t forget to take it down once your items are sold
• Beware of scammers!! Always be careful opening attachments. If you think something smells fishy… it probably is.

give away your stuff

One person’s clutter is someone else’s treasure or an organization’s need.

Here are some great local organizations and familiar companies that will take your unwanted items (in good condition) either by drop-off or home pick-up!

Local – drop off

  • Aunt Leah’s Place helps kids transitioning out of foster care and young mothers. They accept small apartment sized furniture, home decor, accessories, jewelry, and clothing. Donations go to support individuals and they also operate an Urban Thrift Boutique at 177 East Broadway in Vancouver. Aunt Leah’s Donation Centre in Vancouver is open for donation drop-offs by appointment only. Call 604-230-0941 or email gro.shaeltnuaobfsctd@snoitanod
  • The Treasure Chest is a great local thrift store located in New Westminster. All donation revenue goes to the Canadian Mental Health Association.
  • Monarch Place is a local transition house for abused women and families. They are often in need of gently used clothing for women and children, bedding and linens, kitchen utensils and small appliances.
  • BASES is a thrift store in Burnaby that assists at-risk children and families in the Edmonds area. Proceeds from the thrift store will go towards programs at area schools such as breakfast and after-school programs, sports, music, arts and summer camps. They accept donations of clothing, household goods, countertop appliances and small furniture items, which can be dropped off at 7825 Edmonds St. Burnaby
  • Champagne Taste is the go-to furniture consignment store in Metro Vancouver. They are located on the corner of 11th St and Royal Avenue in New Westminster. They were the winners of 2010 Best Consignment Store and Best Customer Service so you know the ladies know their furniture.

Larger Organizations – pick up & drop off

  • Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver will provide a pick-up service which you can book online. They also have convenient drop-off bins around the Lower Mainland.
  • The Canadian Diabetes Association operates a Clothesline donation program that accepts gently used clothing and footwear as well as small household items and electronics. Call the Vancouver office at: 604-732-1331 for more information.
  • The Salvation Army has convenient drop bins and thrift stores where you can donate clothing, household items, even furniture. They also offer a pick-up service.

recycle your stuff

Of course, not everything can be donated or is even worth donating. That’s where recyclers can help. Mattresses are one such items that can be difficult to get rid of.

Canadian Mattress Recycling is based out of Annacis Island in Delta. They recycle mattresses, box springs, and metal bed frames as well as furniture like couches, armchairs and desk chairs. Items can be dropped off at #140-715 Eaton Way or pickup can be booked online.

The City of Burnaby offers a curb side pick up service for residents looking to dispose of large furniture items and appliances.  The city also operates a large eco-centre for recyclables like scrap metal, plastics, cardboard boxes, paint, and batteries. 

Metro Vancouver has the “Waste Wizard” on its site that allows you to input in the items/material you need to recycle or safely dispose of. For more general information on recycling in Vancouver, click here.

Check out the transfer stations in South Vancouver, Coquitlam, Surrey and North Vancouver to drop off your mattress, box springs or futon (for a fee).

Do you have a great company or organization that has helped you out but isn’t on our list? Let us know.