What to Do With Old Musical Instruments – Sell, Donate, or Recycle?

When the Music Stops, the Clutter Starts

Old instruments carry memories, but when they’re broken, unused, or collecting dust in the garage, they become clutter that takes up valuable space. Because most instruments contain wood, metal, and electronics, they shouldn’t be thrown in the trash.

Whether it’s a piano that’s seen better days or a trumpet from high school band, 1-800-JUNKPRO® can help you find the right way to handle it – sell, donate, recycle, or remove.

1. Sell or Trade In Instruments That Still Work

If your instrument is still playable, start with resale or trade-in options.

  • Music Stores & Pawn Shops: Many local shops buy used instruments or offer trade-ins for newer models.

  • Online Marketplaces: Try Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Reverb.com for collectors and musicians searching for specific brands.

  • Community Boards: Local schools, churches, or social media groups are great places to rehome quality instruments.

Pro Tip: Clean the instrument and include clear photos when listing it for sale; presentation helps it sell faster.


2. Donate to Music Programs and Nonprofits

If your instrument still plays but isn’t valuable enough to sell, donating it can make a difference.

  • Local Schools & Youth Centers: Many music programs repair and reuse donated instruments for students.

  • Community Theaters & Churches: Some organizations accept instruments for performances.

  • National Charities: Programs like Hungry for Music, The Music Mission, and Music for All Kids match donations to children in need.

Don’t have time to drop it off? 1-800-JUNKPRO® can help. We’ll pick up your items and deliver them to a local donation partner whenever possible.


3. Recycle or Responsibly Dispose of Broken Instruments

When an instrument is damaged beyond repair, it’s important to dispose of it properly. Many instruments contain metal, wood, plastic, and electronic parts that can be recycled.

  • Guitars and Drum Kits: Often have recyclable metal hardware and frames.

  • Electronic Instruments & Keyboards: Contain batteries and circuit boards that need special disposal.

  • Pianos: Heavy, complex, and often require professional removal due to weight and materials.

Our junk removal team handles all these items responsibly. We separate recyclable materials and dispose of the rest according to local environmental regulations.


4. Large or Heavy Instruments — We’ll Handle the Heavy Lifting

Pianos, large organs, and drum kits are not easy to move safely. The 1-800-JUNKPRO®team is trained to remove large, awkward, or delicate items without damaging your home or floors. We use the right equipment and techniques to protect both your property and your peace of mind.


Why Choose 1-800-JUNKPRO?

  • Full-Service Junk Removal: You point, we load, we haul it away.

  • Eco-Friendly Disposal: We recycle and donate whenever possible.

  • Free On-Site Quotes: Know your cost upfront — no hidden fees.

  • Safe, Professional Crews: Our team treats your home and belongings with care.

  • Fast & Flexible Scheduling: Same-day and next-day pickups available in most areas.


FAQs About Old Musical Instrument Disposal

Q: Do you donate usable instruments?
Yes! Whenever possible, we partner with local organizations to donate playable or repairable instruments before recycling or disposal.

Q: Can you remove large instruments like pianos or drum kits?
Absolutely. Our professional junk removal crew safely removes pianos, drum sets, and other bulky instruments from anywhere in your home or business.

Q: What happens to the instruments you haul away?
Usable items are donated, recyclable components are separated, and the rest is disposed of responsibly. We do our part to keep waste out of landfills.


Make Space for New Memories

Whether you’re decluttering a music room, renovating, or helping a loved one downsize, 1-800-JUNKPRO® makes it easy to part with old instruments responsibly.

Call 1-800-586-5776 today or schedule online in minutes.

WE’RE ON-TIME. WE LOAD IT. WE HAUL IT AWAY.®

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1-800-586-5776

Give us a call at the number above for more details!