From 1 June 2026, every household in Merton will be able to book one free bulky waste collection per year for up to three household items, making it easier for residents to dispose of large items responsibly. 

The new service is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to keeping Merton clean and reducing fly-tipping across the borough, while improving access to recycling and waste services for residents. 

Items such as sofas, mattresses, fridges and other large household furniture can now be collected free of charge through this free annual collection. Residents will be able to book collections through the council’s usual online booking system.  

Councillor Ross Garrod, Leader of Merton Council, said: 

“We promised to introduce free bulky waste collections, and now we are ready to deliver on that promise. From today, every household in Merton will be able to book a free bulky waste collection – making it easier than ever to get rid of old sofas, broken fridges, and mattresses that have seen better days. We know that when services are simple and accessible for everyone, it helps keep our streets clean and reduces fly-tipping.” 

The council is working with its waste and recycling partner Veolia to manage expected demand during the launch period, with additional collection capacity being made available to support bookings on a first-come, first-served basis. This new free service is expected to be popular with slots filling up quickly due to high demand. Please bear with the service in this introductory stage. 

For anyone who already has a booked collection in June, residents will still be entitled to one free collection in the year ahead. Residents who believe they may be due a refund should contact Merton Council’s Customer Contact Centre by calling 020 8274 4901. 

The launch forms part of Merton Council’s wider work to improve street cleanliness and support responsible recycling and waste disposal. This includes expanding the pop-up tip programme, so that every neighbourhood receives this free service at least four times a year, as well as continued access to the borough’s main Household Reuse and Recycling Centre at Garth Road in Morden. 

For more information and to book your free bulky waste collection service: Recycling furniture, fridges and other bulky items | Merton Council