Green sofa and three legged stool with white top

Pass on items for reuse

17 Mar 19

If you have large items at home that you no longer need and are still in good condition, consider donating them to a reuse organisation.

Collections are mainly free but minimal charges may apply in some areas and for some items.

Reuse organisations vary in terms of the types of items they accept and what condition the items should be in, so please check before visiting stores.

Reuse map

To find a reuse organisation in your area, check out the Circular Communities Scotland Members Map

The map also shows organisations offering sharing and repairing services where you can save money and the environment by repairing items or borrowing rather than buying new.

Organisations often accept bed frames, mattresses, chests of drawers, bookcases, wardrobes, dressing tables, tables, chairs, sofas, armchairs, washing machines, electric cookers, fridge freezers and bikes. You’ll need to check with a reuse organisation directly to find out what they specifically collect.

For general furniture, items need to still be in good condition to be collected. This means the items should be free from tears in upholstery, be in working order and should not have been left outside.

Sofas, armchairs, mattresses and other items with material coverings can only be picked up if they have their fire-tags still attached, as without these they are not allowed to be passed on or sold by law.

Electrical items should still be in good working order. Bikes tend to be collected by local bike recycling charities, where expert mechanics will fix them up to be re-used, so bikes requiring minor repairs can be collected.