How to safely and responsibly dispose of your old home appliances – and the one thing experts warn you should never do

Responsibly disposing of old home appliances is vital when updating to a newer model, but improper disposal can have serious consequences for the environment and even land you in legal trouble.

Many appliances contain hazardous materials such as refrigerants, heavy metals, and electronic components that require careful handling. The one thing you should never do is throw them in the trash. Dumping small appliances in the trash or leaving big ones at the curb can lead to contamination, pollution, and even fire hazards.

So if a kitchen appliance becomes one of those things it's time to clear out of your house, here’s how to safely and legally go about it.

How to dispose of old home appliances without risking a fine or worse

1. Fridges and freezers

A refrigerator or freezer may need replacing if it struggles to maintain a steady temperature, has a failing compressor, or consumes excessive energy. So if your freezer isn't freezing, it might be time to consider safe disposal.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'To dispose of your fridge or freezer safely, contact a certified recycling program, appliance retailer (many offer trade-in programs), or your local waste management service to arrange for safe removal. Many areas have EPA-approved programs for handling refrigerants.'

One of the worst mistakes you can make is illegally dumping it or attempting to dismantle it yourself. Toner adds, 'Never dump a fridge or freezer in a landfill or leave it by the curb without proper preparation. If left untreated, refrigerant leaks can release toxic gases, and insulation materials may contain hazardous chemicals. Improper disposal can also lead to fines in many regions.'

2. Toasters

Even the best toasters will eventually struggle, whether tripping your circuit breaker or toasting the bread unevenly.

For safe disposal, check if your local e-waste recycling center accepts small appliances, or consider donating it if it still functions. Some retailers also have trade-in programs that allow you to recycle electronics responsibly.

Avoid tossing your toaster in with the garbage or trying to take it apart. Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, 'A common mistake is tossing a toaster directly into the trash. This not only contributes to landfill waste but can lead to hazardous metals leaching into the soil. Also – unless you have the right tools and electrical knowledge – avoid trying to dismantle the toaster yourself. Go for certified disposal professional services instead.'

3. Microwaves

Being mindful of common kitchen items you can and can't microwave is one thing, but knowing when to replace yours and how to get rid of an old one is another.

Muffetta Krueger, founder of Muffetta's Housekeeping, says, 'Check with electronic recycling programs or municipal hazardous waste collection sites. Many waste disposal facilities accept microwaves for safe dismantling. It's also worth trying retailers as some, such as Best Buy, offer appliance recycling services.'

Never throw microwaves in the trash as they contain electronic components that can release toxic chemicals. Krueger adds, 'Also, never attempt to disassemble a microwave yourself – its internal capacitor can store lethal electrical charges even when unplugged.'

4. Dishwashers

A dishwasher that no longer drains properly, leaves food residue, or leaks water may need replacing. If you're guilty of the worst things you can do to your dishwasher, you might have encountered limescale buildup, worn-out seals, or even electrical failures that have reduced efficiency. And if you’re constantly rewashing dishes or dealing with leaks, upgrading to a more energy-efficient model may be the best solution.

Dishwashers contain metal, plastic, and electronic components, making landfill disposal both environmentally harmful and, in some areas, illegal. Improper disposal can also lead to mold growth from trapped water.

To dispose of a dishwasher responsibly, check if your appliance retailer offers haul-away services. If it still works, consider donating it to a nonprofit or shelter. Many scrap metal recycling centers accept dishwashers, and some municipalities offer bulk waste pickup – always verify local disposal regulations first.

5. Space heaters

A space heater that overheats, has exposed wiring, or emits a burning smell is a safety hazard and should be replaced immediately. However, throwing them in the trash is a dangerous space heater mistake.

Karina Toner says, 'Never throw an old space heater in the trash. Dumping them can lead to leaks that contaminate soil and groundwater. Space heaters often contain electrical wiring, heating elements, and sometimes oil, all of which can be hazardous if mishandled. Some models also contain asbestos insulation.

'If upgrading to the best type of space heater from an older model that's still working properly, consider donating it to a local charity. If it's broken, contact a hazardous waste disposal facility or an e-waste recycling center to handle it safely.'

6. Washer, dryers and combos

A washer or dryer that struggles to clean or dry clothes, shakes excessively, or leaks are likely past its prime. Other signs include longer drying times, loud noises, or an unresponsive control panel. If you've checked why your washer's not draining or spinning and there's no easy fix, it might be time to replace your outdated model.

Dumping these appliances improperly can be hazardous. They contain electrical wiring, heavy metals, and sometimes refrigerants. In many areas, leaving them outside a scheduled collection time is illegal and can result in fines. They also take up significant landfill space, contributing to environmental waste.

Instead, recycle old units through a scrap metal service, as they contain valuable materials like steel and copper. Many appliance retailers offer removal services when delivering a new unit. If your washer or dryer still works, donate it to a charity or resale shop. Some utility companies even provide rebate programs for recycling old, inefficient appliances.

FAQs

What should I do if my appliance is still working but I want to upgrade?

If your appliance is still functional, consider donating it to a charity, school, or shelter that accepts used appliances. Many thrift stores also accept working appliances for resale. Another option is selling it online through second-hand marketplaces. Some manufacturers and retailers even offer trade-in discounts when you return old appliances.

How can I put my old appliances out for bulk trash pickup?

It depends on local regulations. Some cities allow bulk pickup for large appliances, but they often require you to remove doors, drain fluids, or schedule special collection services. Check with your local waste management department before leaving appliances on the curb. In many cases, professional appliance recycling programs are the safest and most eco-friendly choice.

Are there any laws about appliance disposal I should be aware of?

Yes. Many appliances, especially refrigerators and air conditioners, are regulated due to the presence of hazardous materials like refrigerants. Federal and state laws often require proper disposal by certified professionals. Illegally dumping appliances can result in fines, so always check local regulations or use a licensed recycling service to ensure compliance.

Properly disposing of home appliances isn’t just about decluttering your home – it’s a responsibility that protects the environment and keeps communities safe.

Next, check out the appliance placement rules for harmony in the kitchen to ensure your new model doesn't hinder your routine.