How to Donate a Pool Table

A pool table in your basement can provide countless hours of entertainment for your family and its guests. But if the table's layer of dust is thick enough to dissuade you from racking up the balls, it's time for the table to go. Rather than put it in the trash, take some time to tidy it up, then speak to local organizations that might extend its life.

Prospective organizations will find your pool table more appealing if you take a little time to care for it once you decide to donate it. With your vacuum on a low setting, carefully vacuum any built-up dust off the table's felt and wood, then use a microfiber cloth to wipe the balls and cues. Polish the table's wood finish with a rag and wax or oil, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure each of the pockets is properly intact.

Brainstorm of a list of the organizations in your community that might benefit from the donation. This list could include after-school youth programs, community recreation centers or seniors' homes. Contact each of the organizations on your list and provide details about the pool table, such as its age, condition, size and list of accessories. Inquire as to whether any of the organizations is interested in your pool table and arrange a day and time to deliver it or have someone pick it up.

Moving the pool table, especially if it's in your basement, is no easy task. Pool tables often require you to disassemble them to move them safely. Remove each of the four legs. The legs are possible to carry individually, but carrying the slate is best with a helper. Depending on your vehicle, you might not be able to deliver the pool table to the organization that wants it. In this case, ask if the organization can send a truck and a couple volunteers to carry the table.

If you can't find a local organization interested in receiving your pool table, you might be able to turn it into cash. The simplest approach is to include it in a garage sale as this method doesn't involve you having to transport it. Alternatives include taking it to a pawn shop or store that sells used sporting goods. Should these methods not pan out, contact your city's waste management department about disposing of the table. If it's too big for curbside pickup, you might have to transport it to the dump or arrange for a disposal company to collect it.