How to Get Free Furniture for your Apartment

A new apartment lets you start with a blank canvas when looking for furniture.

Moving into a new apartment is an exciting time, but it also can be expensive when you try to furnish the space. The cost of utility connections plus your other expenses will not leave much money for furniture. There are different ways to get free furniture, if you know where to look. Even if the piece is not exactly what you want, rejuvenate the item with paint or fabric covers. Refurbishing the furniture allows you to match each piece to your tastes.

Things You'll Need

• Index cards
• Pen or marker

Instructions

1. Hang notices on local bulletin boards that read, "Wanted: Free Furniture." Include your name and phone number on the card. You may wish to include a small list of needed items.

2. Check Internet sites like Craigslist or localized advertising sites for free items. Take only the items you can use or refurbish. Just because it is free does not mean the piece will work in your apartment.

3. Locate your local chapter of Freecycle.org and post a 'Wanted' advertisement on the site. Follow the guidelines when posting to the site or your post may be rejected.

4. Ask family and friends for items you cannot locate elsewhere. Find out about returning each item when you no longer need it. You may be asked to return the piece or pass it forward to another person.

5. Check local rummage sales, yard sales and moving sales. Items are sometimes offered for free during the last day of a sale.

Tips & Warnings

• Check couches, chairs and other cushioned furniture pieces for infestations of fleas or other insects before you accept them.

References

• Single Parent Spot: How To Find Cheap Furniture
• Freecycle.org