Disposal of upholstered seating

We have made changes to how upholstered seating such as sofas, chairs or cushions are disposed of at recycling centres. Due to regulations, to help protect the environment we must handle these items differently.

Upholstered seating may contain Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) which are harmful chemicals. POPs must be destroyed safely by incineration and kept separate from other types of waste and recycling streams.

What items are affected

Beds and mattresses are not affected.

All waste upholstered seating is affected by the regulations, anything that is designed to be sat on. 

Items that are to be disposed of as upholstered seating, this includes any part made of or containing leather, synthetic leather, fabric or foam:

• Sofas
• Sofa beds
• Armchairs
• Kitchen and dining room chairs
• Home office chairs
• Futons
• Bean bags
• Stools and footstools
• Floor and sofa cushions
• Highchairs with upholstery
• Electric recliner chairs 

View SEPA's guidance on upholstered seating (PDF 238KB) for more information.

Reusing and donating furniture

It is still safe to donate or buy second-hand furniture with upholstered seating through local reuse or charity shops, as long as the items are in good condition and free from damage such as rips or tears.

How to dispose of upholstered seating

Check which recycling centres accept these items before visiting.

• Tape up any rips or tears prior to deposit
• Use the designated skips for upholstered seating
• If you need assistance speak to site staff who can direct you to the appropriate skip
• Follow instructions provided by site staff

Any incorrect items going in a skip can result in the entire skip having to go for a different type of disposal which could lead to extra disposal costs to the council. If you are not sure please speak to site staff.