Here are practical ways to get rid of old furniture in Toronto, with what to expect and links to each option so you can act quickly.

1. Curbside bulk/oversized pickup (City of Toronto)

• The City will pick up furniture, mattresses, box springs and other oversized items if set out beside your garbage bin on your regular collection day. Follow the City’s set‑out rules (separate/dismantle large pieces, keep 0.5 m between items, wrap bed‑bug infested items in plastic). Use this first — it’s free. (toronto.ca)

2. Donate (free pickup or drop‑off) — best if items are gently used

• Furniture Bank (Toronto): accepts household furniture and offers drop‑off and home pickup options; good for charitable receipts in some cases. (furniturebank.org)
• Habitat for Humanity ReStore (GTA): accepts new/gently used furniture; many ReStores offer free pickup for qualifying donations (you usually upload photos and schedule). Proceeds support affordable housing. (HabitatGTA.ca)

3. Sell or give away online (fast, may earn money)

• Post on Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or a “free” listing on Facebook neighbourhood groups. Include clear photos, measurements, condition, pickup requirements and a short honest description. (No web citation needed for general advice.)

4. Private junk‑removal companies (paid, full service)

• If you need fast, no‑lifting removal (inside pickup, stair carry), book a local junk removal or “white‑glove” hauling service. Many GTA companies offer same‑/next‑day service and will recycle or divert items when possible (price based on truck space or item count). Get at least two quotes and confirm whether they recycle/donate items. Example local providers: JunkGone, JunkRemovalGTA and other GTA haulers. (JunkGone.ca)

5. Mattresses & special items (recycling / disposal)

• Mattresses sometimes have dedicated recycling programs or specialist recyclers — charities may accept clean mattresses, or paid mattress‑recycling services will deconstruct and recycle materials. Check program availability (some municipal programs have interruptions), or use a mattress recycling service. Confirm sanitary/bed‑bug rules before donating. (CanSumer.ca)

6. Drop at a transfer station or depot

• If you have a vehicle, many municipal transfer stations accept furniture for disposal (fees may apply). Check the nearest GTA transfer station’s rules/hours.

Quick checklist & tips to speed things up

• Clean, vacuum and photograph items from several angles; include measurements and note any damage. Charities often screen by photo. (HabitatGTA.ca)
• For curbside pickup: dismantle large pieces, tie loose parts, and keep items accessible at the curb on collection day. Wrap bed‑bug infestations in sealed plastic. (toronto.ca)
• If donating, contact the charity first to confirm they accept the item and whether they offer pickup. Habitat/Furniture Bank typically require photos for pickup scheduling. (HabitatGTA.ca)
• For paid haulers: confirm price, whether they recycle/donate, whether they remove from inside the home, and accepted payment methods before booking. (JunkGone.ca)

If you tell me the item(s) (e.g., 3‑seater sofa, queen mattress, dining table) and whether they’re in good condition or infested/damaged, I can recommend the fastest/cheapest option and point you to the right pickup request page or a few local haulers.