If you need a sofa, rug, stereo or anything other people might have – and no longer want – then don’t even think about paying for it until you’ve checked websites such as Freecycle.org, Myskip.com and the “free” section of Gumtree.com.

People clearing out their old things register them on these sites and all you have to pay for is the petrol or transport to go and pick them up.

Items are listed by location, so if you pick those near to where you live you can cut down on travel costs.

New items are listed every day, including TVs, tables, sofas, carpets, curtains and computers.

If you’re willing to travel to get them you could potentially furnish your home free.