Couch Removal: How to Get Rid of that Old Sofa

May 29, 2025

If your old couch is messing with your Feng Shui or hogging space like a vampire in a coffin, it's time to make a change. But getting rid of a bulky sofa isn’t always as simple as dragging it to the curb. Whether you're upgrading your living room look or just need to reclaim some square footage, there are several ways to say goodbye to that worn-out monstrosity—some DIY, and some best left to the pros.

Sell It

If your couch still has some life left in it, selling it can be a great way to pass it along and pocket a little cash. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and NextDoor make it easy to list your item locally. Just remember: price it realistically—Splitwise recommends aiming for no more than 30% of the original cost for a five-year-old couch. A professional cleaning can also help boost its value, especially if you've got pets or little goblins running around. If your sofa’s seen better days, targeting college students around move-in season can work wonders—local campuses often have bulletin boards or forums where you can advertise.

Donate It

If dealing with online buyers gives you the chills, donating your couch might be the better route. Many nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity Restore offer free furniture pickup services, provided the item is in decent shape and located on the ground floor. Donations are tax-deductible and go to a good cause, helping families furnish their homes affordably. Another easy option is Freecycle.org, where you can list your couch for free and let someone else come pick it up—perfect for avoiding heavy lifting or last-minute transportation headaches.

Trash It

Sometimes, a couch is just too far gone—scratched, stained, sagging, or flattened from years of use (or enthusiastic pets). Unfortunately, most cities won’t take oversized furniture during regular trash pickup, and leaving your old couch on the curb could lead to fines or raised eyebrows from your neighbors. Depending on local regulations, you might be able to schedule a bulk pickup, but more often, you’ll be required to lug it to a designated disposal facility yourself—a process that’s anything but quick or easy.

Hire a Couch Removal Expert

If you're short on time, energy, or patience, calling in the couch-busting pros is the easiest and most efficient option. Count Junkula’s furniture removal team handles everything—from lifting and hauling to eco-friendly disposal—so you don’t have to break a sweat (or your back). We donate or recycle whenever possible, giving your couch a second life instead of sending it straight to the dump. Whether it’s upstairs, wedged in a tight hallway, or built like a tank, we’ll get it out fast and responsibly, leaving you with more space to summon your new furniture dreams.

frequently asked questions

  • How long does it take to remove a couch?

    The amount of time depends on the size, type and condition of the couch. Generally, most couches can be removed within half an hour. However, for larger or more complex items, such as sectional couches or those with an irregular shape, additional time may be required.

  • How much does it cost to remove a couch?

    The cost of couch removal can vary depending on the size and condition of the couch. For example, if you have a large sectional or an old, worn out piece, it may require more time and effort to be removed and could therefore cost more. It is best to speak with a local moving company or furniture removal specialist to get an accurate estimate. 

  • Can I leave my old sofa on the curb for trash collection?

    It is not recommended to leave a couch on the curb for trash collection. In some areas, it is illegal to dispose of large items like couches in this way. Furthermore, most municipal waste management companies are not equipped to handle such large furniture and will likely just leave it behind. 

  • Is it easy to re-upholster/refresh a couch?

    It is possible to re-upholster or refresh an old couch, but this can be a time consuming and expensive process. Depending on the type of fabric and condition of the sofa, it may require professional expertise and special tools in order to achieve a satisfactory result.  If you are considering this option, it is best to consult a professional to get an accurate assessment and estimate.

Out With the Old, In With the New

Once your old couch has vanished like a vampire at sunrise, protect your new one from suffering the same fate too soon. Regularly vacuum fabric sofas, flip cushions to ensure even wear, and steam clean every two years to keep them fresh. For leather furniture, a simple wipe-down with mild soap and water plus the occasional leather conditioner can work wonders. With a little care, your new throne will stay comfortable and classy for years to come.


If you're ready to banish your unwanted couch and welcome in something fresh and fabulous, call Count Junkula today for a free estimate. Our frightfully friendly crew is here to do the heavy lifting—no garlic, mirrors, or stress required.