Guidance for Upholstered Furniture Donations

As new regulations concerning Waste Upholstered Domestic Seating (WUDS) and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) come into effect, we're updating our guidelines for accepting upholstered furniture donations.
Important Information Regarding Waste Upholstered Domestic Seating (WUDS)

At Cunninghame Furniture Recycling (CFRC), we’re committed to responsible waste management and environmental protection. As new regulations concerning Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) come into effect, we’re updating our guidelines for accepting upholstered furniture donations.

What are Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)?

POPs are harmful chemicals that pose environmental risks if not disposed of properly. They are often found in older upholstered furniture due to past use of certain flame retardants. While the risk from intact furniture is low, proper disposal is crucial during breakdown.

New Regulations and The Impact on Donations:

CFRC can only accept upholstered furniture that IS reusable and are no longer able to collect non reusable items which now require special disposal under the new POPs regulations. This includes the following items:

  • Sofas
  • Sofa Beds
  • Armchairs
  • Kitchen and dining room chairs
  • Home Office Chairs
  • Futons
  • Bean Bags
  • Floor & sofa cushions
  • Electrical recliner chairs

However, the good news is that we can still accept donations and find a new home for all of the above listed items provided they comply with new regulations and are reusable.  Donated items must now comply with the following:

  • No rips or tears
  • Fire safety label displayed
  • No missing/broken parts
  • No deep set stains/soiling
  • Item hasnt been reupholstered

What does this mean for you?

However, the good news is that we can still accept donations and find a new home for all of the above listed items provided they comply with new regulations and are reusable.  Donated items must now comply with the following:

  • Non reusable items of Waste Upholstered Domestic Seating (WUDS) now require special disposal.  CFRC do not provide a service for special disposal and can only accept items that comply with new regulations for reuse.  As such we now need to reject any donations of upholstered furniture that do not comply with the new laws imposed, which affect all reuse organisations in the sector.
  • Should we be unable to accept your donation or you’ve decided, having read this, that the items are not in reusable condition, our advice is to check with your local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) for their updated guidelines on WUDS disposal, as different local authorities may have varying procedures.
YOUR LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Guidance on disposing of Upholstered Domestic Seating and Special Uplift Bookings
Please follow the links below for:
Upholstered Furniture Donations
What can you do?
  • Continue donating your furniture for reuse if it’s in good condition by completing an online donation form and selecting a suitable collection date in our digital diary. https://cfrcdonations.kudoscloud.co.uk/ CFRC are committed to continuing to offer affordable, high-quality reuse furniture, giving items a second life and promoting the circular economy by reducing landfill, and assisting residents to furnish their homes sustainably.
  • Stay informed about POPs regulations and responsible waste management practices (we will update this information when we receive any new information).

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we implement these necessary changes. Together, we can ensure responsible furniture disposal and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.

Please don’t hesitate to contact CFRC with any questions you may have regarding upholstered furniture donations.  Details on how to contact us can be found here:

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