How to Get Rid of a Piano

So, you’ve got an old or unwanted piano that’s taking up space in your home. Maybe it’s been sitting there for years, untouched, gathering dust, and you’re not quite sure what to do with it. Or perhaps it’s too heavy to move, and the thought of figuring out how to get rid of it feels overwhelming. How do you go about moving something so large and heavy? What if it’s in good shape—should you sell it or donate it? And if it’s beyond repair, how do you make sure that it’s given a proper disposal?

Whether it’s an upright piano that has seen better days or a grand piano that no longer fits your space, the decision to let go is never easy. However, just as every note in a melody plays its part, there are harmonious ways to ensure your piano finds a fitting farewell. Keep reading to learn how to get rid of an old or unwanted piano.

Assess the Condition of the Piano

Before deciding on the best course of action, it's essential to assess the condition of your piano first. Is it still in playable shape, or has it become more of a decorative piece? Understanding the state of your piano can guide you in choosing the right removal option.

If the piano is still in good condition, it could be a valuable donation to someone who might want to play one but cannot afford such a musical instrument. On the other hand, if the piano has seen better days and is beyond repair, it may be time to consider other options, like recycling or contacting a piano removal service. Your initial assessment will help simplify the removal process and ensure that you're making the best decision.

Options for Getting Rid of a Piano

Now that you've taken a closer look at your piano, it's time to explore your options. Whether you choose to donate, sell, recycle, or hire a junk removal service, there’s a fitting path for every old piano

Donating the Piano

One of the most impactful ways to part with your piano is by donating it. A donated piano can bring music into the lives of other people while also reducing waste and contributing to a sustainable economy. Many charities and community centers are grateful for such donations, as a piano can be a huge benefit for educational programs, music therapy sessions, or community events, underscoring how thrifting is sustainable. If you're considering a donation, make sure that the piano is in good condition. 

Organizations like Goodwill can give your piano a second life, helping support their mission of empowering communities through sustainable practices. By donating your piano, you not only declutter your home but also enjoy the benefits of donating to charity, such as knowing you’ve made a positive impact on your community.

Selling the Piano

If your piano is still in good shape, selling it may also be a good option if you're looking to make some extra bucks. There are plenty of marketplaces that allow you to reach buyers who appreciate the value of second-hand goods. Whether it's a digital piano or a classic acoustic piano, you could find someone willing to give it a new home.

Keep in mind that selling a piano also requires some effort so you can attract buyers and ensure a smooth selling process. But with a little work, selling your piano can be a rewarding experience both financially and emotionally. Here are some tips:

  • Take high-quality photos

  • Provide detailed descriptions

  • Arrange for piano movers to assist with transportation

Recycling or Scrapping the Piano

For pianos that are no longer functional, recycling or scrapping is a responsible choice. Pianos are made of various materials, including wood, metal, and felt, which can be repurposed or recycled. By choosing this method, you ensure that the piano's components are properly disposed of, reducing environmental impact.

Many junk removal services offer piano removal, and some specialize in recycling old pianos. A professional piano removal service can help handle the heavy lifting so that the process is safe and efficient. It's a thoughtful way to say goodbye to an unwanted piano while being mindful of the planet.

Contacting Piano Dealers

If you're trying to sell your piano and you're unsure of its value or potential, reaching out to a piano dealer can give you some clarity. Dealers can offer an appraisal, and in some cases, they may be interested in purchasing the piano for resale or parts. They might even suggest refurbishing the piano if it has a historical or aesthetic value –– this can increase your piano's price if you still decide on selling it.

Piano dealers are often well-connected within the music community and can help guide you toward the best disposal or repurposing option. Whether it’s an upright piano or a grand piano, they can provide expert advice on the most suitable next steps.

Calling a Junk Removal Service

When a piano has outlived its musical days and is beyond repair, a junk removal service may be your best bet. These services specialize in handling large, heavy items like old pianos and can safely and efficiently remove them from your home. This option is particularly useful if your piano is taking up valuable space in your home, such as during a basement cleanout when you need it removed quickly.

Hiring a professional piano removal service ensures that the job is done right, minimizing the risk of damage during the removal process. Many services also offer environmentally friendly disposal options so that your piano is either recycled or disposed of properly. This not only frees up space in your home but also aligns with responsible environmental practices.

Give New Life to Your Old Piano with Goodwill

Parting with a piano can feel like the end of an era, but it doesn’t have to be. By choosing to donate your piano, especially to organizations like Goodwill, you’re not just getting rid of an old instrument—you’re giving it a new life. The mission of Goodwill stores and ShopGoodwill.com is to support communities and promote sustainability, making your donation a meaningful contribution. 

If you’re concerned about the logistics of moving such a large item, Goodwill has partnered with Resupply, a service that helps facilitate donations by offering pickup options. This partnership makes it easier than ever to donate your piano, ensuring that it finds a new home without the hassle of arranging transportation. Simply schedule a pickup through Resupply, and they’ll take care of the rest.

Who knows? Your piano might end up in the hands of a budding musician who can only afford a used musical instrument, or it could be sold to raise funds for community programs. In either case, your donation has a ripple effect, helping to create positive change in the world. Consider donating your old or unwanted piano to a local Goodwill to make an impact!


Sources:

  1. Forbes. (2023). How Does a Junk removal service work? https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/home/junk-removal-service/

  2. WasteManaged. (n.d.). How to Recycle a Piano. https://www.wastemanaged.co.uk/our-news/other/piano-disposal/

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