2. Out with the old

Clearing out old furniture and appliances can cost an arm and a leg if you have to pay someone to take them away.

Before you do, contact the Furniture Re-use Network (FRN). This body assists charitable re-use organisations across the UK, and they’ll collect unwanted furniture and white goods - without charge - to give to families in need.

You could also offer it up on Freecycle, a free mailing list where you can list things you want to get rid of and anyone who wants it will come and collect it.

Alternatively, give your local council a ring. They tend to have a bad reputation in this respect, but many councils will actually collect several items for free.

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