ABOUT to embark on a spring clean? Don’t forget, furniture is just as recyclable as paper, cans, glass and even bikes.

There are a number of furniture reuse schemes in the region that can make good use of any furniture and household items (that are in good condition) but that you no longer want.

The Furniture Reuse Network (which supports reuse organisations across the UK) estimates that, nationally, 2.5 million items, including 300,000 electrical items and more than 200,000 computers, are reused.

In total, they estimate that through reuse, 90,000 tonnes of furniture is kept out of landfill.

Even local councils are helping to recycle furniture. Durham County Council has formed County Durham Furniture Forum, which brings together reuse schemes across County Durham.

Furniture Forum members can arrange to take away your unwanted items and give them or resell to people in the region who are experiencing hardship.

Remember, these organisations can only use household goods that are reusable and therefore in good condition.

They can only accept upholstery that is fire-retardant (it will show a fire-retardant logo on the label).

If you have items to donate, contact the member of the forum on the numbers shown below:

■ District of Easington: East Durham Furniture Reuse: 0191-5184394 or 0191-5868493.

■ Borough of Sedgefield: Acts Furniture project: 01388-420345.

■ Chester le Street and North Durham: Furniture and Fabric: 0191-3890888.

■ County Durham: County Durham Furniture Scheme: 01388-721509. This scheme will also take office furniture.

For more information on the schemes, visit premierwaste.com