Ever feel like your old dishwasher is trying out for a horror movie—clanking, buzzing, and flashing cryptic codes? If it’s clearly past its prime, you’re probably wondering how to dispose of a dishwasher the right way.
The problem? Getting rid of large appliances like dishwashers isn’t as simple as dragging them to the curb. With local laws, recycling rules, and bulky item pickup limits, figuring out how to dispose of an old dishwasher can be more confusing than the rinse cycle on a smart model.
Don’t worry—I’ve been through the appliance disposal maze myself. Whether you’re replacing a broken unit or upgrading to a sleek new model, this guide covers how to prepare, remove, and recycle your dishwasher, plus where to take it, how much disposal may cost, and how to avoid fines or illegal dumping.
Let’s make this easy—and maybe even satisfying.
Key Takeaway: How to Dispose of a Dishwasher Responsibly
To dispose of an old dishwasher responsibly, use city recycling programs, hire a junk removal service, or take advantage of retailer haul-away offers. You can also scrap it for metal at a local yard or find certified recycling options near you using the Green Directory. Always follow local regulations to avoid fines and reduce e-waste.
Do’s and Don’ts for Dishwasher Disposal
� Do’s
� Don’ts
- Schedule a bulky item pickup with your city (if required)
- Remove the dishwasher door to prevent entrapment hazards
- Disconnect water lines and power before placing outside
- Check local rules for tagging or labeling requirements
- Use a certified recycler
- Don’t leave your dishwasher on the curb without permission
- Don’t assume pickup is automatic—some cities require an appointment
- Don’t dispose of units containing hazardous components improperly
- Don’t dump dishwashers on vacant lots or alleys (this may count as illegal dumping)
- Don’t forget to check for scrap metal value if recycling yourself
Should You Donate, Sell, or Recycle Your Old Dishwasher?
Not sure what to do with your old dishwasher? Whether it still works or not, don’t rush to toss it. You might be able to sell it, donate it, or recycle it responsibly—and yes, that aging machine could still hold value.
Let’s figure out when it’s best to give it away, make a few bucks, or go for eco-friendly dishwasher disposal.
When to Donate Your Dishwasher
- Best for: Dishwashers in working condition with no major leaks or broken parts.
If your dishwasher still runs without sounding like it’s trying to escape, donating it is the best option. Many people—low-income families, shelters, and community centers—can benefit from a working appliance.
Where to Donate Old Dishwashers
- Local charities: Some locations, , and The accept appliances.
- Nonprofits: Smaller community organizations or churches may take working dishwashers.
- City Programs: Some government websites list local appliance donation options. Try to search online “appliance donation + [your city]� to find options near you.
When to Sell Your Dishwasher
- Best for: Dishwashers under 8-10 years old in great condition (or lightly used).
If your dishwasher still works like a champ, why not make some pocket money?
List it on:
- , , , � Buyers are always looking for affordable appliances.
- Local appliance stores � Some small shops refurbish and resell appliances.
When to Dispose of Your Dishwasher
- Best for: Dishwashers that are broken, unsafe, or uneconomical to repair.
If your dishwasher is beyond saving (as in, it’s more of a science experiment than an appliance), disposing of it is your last resort. But don’t just dump it—there are better ways to properly dispose of it:
- City Recycling Programs � Some offer curbside pickup for old appliances. Call your local waste management office.
- Junk Removal Services � Companies like 1-800-GOT-JUNK and Junk King will haul it away.
- Scrap Yards � Dishwashers contain valuable metals like stainless steel that can be sold.
Where to Dispose of Dishwashers Responsibly
Check to find eco-friendly dishwasher disposal options near you! Just enter you ZIP code or address and enter dishwasher in the item box, you can find all dishwasher recycling options based on your search radius.
Before you get rid of your old dishwasher, ask yourself: Can it be fixed, donated, or sold?
Reusing is always better than recycling—considering you are a firm believer of circular economy like me. But if it’s truly beyond repair, make sure it’s disposed of responsibly—because your dishwasher deserves a dignified retirement, not a landfill grave.
How to Safely Remove and Uninstall a Dishwasher for Disposal
I learned the hard way that uninstalling a dishwasher isn’t as simple as yanking it out and calling it a day.
The first time I tried, I forgot to shut off the water—cue a mini indoor flood and a mad scramble for towels. And I didn’t realize how heavy the thing was until it nearly crushed my foot.
If you want to avoid those mistakes, here’s a safe step-by-step guide to remove and uninstall your dishwasher before recycling or disposal.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before starting, make sure you have:
- A screwdriver and wrench for disconnecting mounting brackets and water lines.
- Towels or a bucket to catch any leftover water.
- Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
Step 2: Turn Off Power and Water Supply
First things first—make sure you cut the power before doing anything else. Locate your breaker box and flip off the circuit that powers your dishwasher.
Trust me, you don’t want to mess with electrical components while standing in a puddle.
Next, shut off the water supply. There’s usually a valve under the sink—turn it clockwise until it won’t budge. If your valve is stubborn or rusted, use a wrench for extra leverage, but be careful not to snap it off.
This is where most people run into problems—if you force it too much, you’ll have a plumbing repair on your hands.
Step 3: Disconnect Hoses and Drain Line
Now, find the water supply hose. It’s usually a flexible metal or plastic tube connecting the dishwasher to the water line. Loosen the fitting with a wrench and be ready for some water dribbles.
I always keep a towel underneath to catch surprise leaks.
The drain hose is another tricky spot. If it’s clamped to your sink’s garbage disposal or drain pipe, loosen the clamp carefully.
A bit of standing water here is normal, but if a foul smell hits you, that means food particles have been sitting in there for too long—consider running hot soapy water through before disconnecting.
Step 4: Remove the Mounting Brackets and Slide It Out
Most dishwashers are secured under the countertop with two metal brackets at the top. Unscrew them, but don’t yank—those brackets are sharp, and you don’t want a cut just as you’re about to lift something heavy.
Now comes the fun part—getting it out. If your dishwasher has been sitting there for years, it might be stuck due to residue buildup or flooring changes.
Wiggling it side to side can help loosen it, but don’t force it too hard.
Pro tip: If the dishwasher doesn’t budge, check for hidden screws on the sides securing it to adjacent cabinets.
Step 5: Prepare for Disposal
Now that your dishwasher is out, what’s next?
Retailers or junk removal services usually require it to be fully disconnected before pick-up. Stores like ł˘´Ç·É±đ’s or Best Buy offer curbside pickup when delivering a new appliance. Some municipalities also have curbside recycling programs—check your local regulations.
If you want to make sure it’s disposed of responsibly, use to find a proper recycling center near you. That way, your old dishwasher can be dismantled and repurposed instead of ending up in a landfill.
With the hard part done, now you can decide whether to donate, sell, or recycle it. Whatever you do, just don’t let it become a rusting heap in your garage like I once did.
5 Best Ways to Dispose of or Recycle an Old Dishwasher
So your old dishwasher is officially out of commission. Now comes the real challenge: how to dispose of a dishwasher legally, responsibly, and maybe even for free.
Before dragging it to the curb and hoping it vanishes, consider these five smart options to recycle or dispose of your dishwasher the right way.
1. Municipal or City Recycling Programs
Many cities offer recycling programs for large appliances, including dishwashers. Depending on where you live, you may have one of the following options:
- Curbside Recycling Service: Some cities offer free or scheduled curbside pickup for bulky items. Check your city’s waste management website for details. Be aware that some areas require you to make an appointment.
- Drop-off Recycling Centers: If curbside isn’t available, check if your local landfill or recycling center accepts old dishwashers. Some charge a fee, while others take them for free.
Air conditioners are another example of large appliances that require proper disposal due to their potential hazardous materials.
Before assuming your dishwasher qualifies for pickup, read the fine print.
Some cities require you to remove certain components, such as the dishwasher door, to prevent accidental entrapment. Others may only accept appliances if they’re free of hazardous materials.
A quick check on your city’s website will save you from dragging your dishwasher to the curb just to have it left behind like an unwanted couch.
Prepare ahead!
2. Junk Removal Services
Are you short on time or a vehicle big enough for a dishwasher? Let the pros handle it.
Junk removal services will haul your dishwasher away, often on the same day. Here are some companies to check out:
Most services charge based on volume, so if you’re tossing multiple large appliances, you might get a better deal.
Expect to pay anywhere from $75 to $150, depending on location and size.
Some companies also offer eco-friendly appliance disposal, ensuring your dishwasher is either recycled or donated instead of sent straight to the landfill.
3. Retailer/Haul-Away Programs
If you’re replacing your old dishwasher with a new appliance, your best bet might be a haul-away program from a major retailer.
Many stores offer removal services when delivering your new unit.
- ł˘´Ç·É±đ’s and Home Depot offer haul-away services for an additional fee (usually $25â€�$50). Some locations provide it for free if you’re buying a replacement.
- Best Buy offers appliance recycling, but there’s a pickup fee unless you’re purchasing a new dishwasher.
- Local appliance stores may also offer free haul-away services—so always ask before you buy.
Pro tip: Some retailers offer discounts if you trade in your old unit. It’s worth checking whether your store has a trade-in program that saves you some cash.
4. Scrapping and Salvaging
If your dishwasher is completely dead, it might still have some hidden value.
Scrap yards accept scrap metal, and dishwashers contain a mix of stainless steel, aluminum, and copper wiring—all of which can be sold.
Don’t expect to get rich, but you might at least fund your next coffee run. Depending on the current scrap metal market, you could pocket $5�$20 for the materials.
Before hauling it to a scrap yard, remove any non-metal components like plastic racks. Some scrappers prefer appliances that are partially disassembled since it saves them the effort.
If you’re unsure where to take it, search for “scrap yard near me� for locations.
5. Find Responsible Disposal Options with Green Directory
For the easiest way to find a responsible recycling program near you, check . Whether you’re looking for junk removal, a scrap yard, or a curbside pickup service, this tool can help you locate responsible disposal options with just a few clicks.
No matter which route you take, make sure your dishwasher doesn’t end up as landfill clutter. Recycling or repurposing it is always the best way forward.
How Much Does It Cost to Dispose of a Dishwasher?
Recycling or disposing of a dishwasher typically costs between $0 and $150, depending on the method you choose.
Retailer Haul-Away Programs: $25�$50 when buying a new appliance
Junk Removal Services: $75�$150, based on location and volume
Municipal Curbside Pickup: Free in some cities, but may require an appointment
Drop-Off Recycling Centers: Free or low-cost ($10�$30), depending on local regulations
Scrap Yards: May pay you $5�$20 for recyclable metals like stainless steel and copper
Is It Legal to Leave a Dishwasher on the Curb?
Leaving a dishwasher on the curb is not always legal—rules vary by city, and improper disposal could lead to fines. Many municipalities require an appointment for bulky item pickup and may impose restrictions, such as:
Removing the dishwasher door to prevent child entrapment
Draining water and disconnecting hoses
Labeling or tagging the item for scheduled pickup
In some areas, it’s illegal to place large appliances curbside without approval from the local sanitation department. You may be charged for illegal dumping or risk your appliance being rejected entirely.
� To stay compliant, check your city’s waste management website to find approved recycling and pickup options.
What to Do With an Old Dishwasher: Final Tips for Responsible Disposal
Dumping an old dishwasher on the curb isn’t just wasteful—it’s a lost opportunity. Most dishwashers contain recyclable materials like stainless steel, wiring, and durable plastics that can be salvaged or reused.
By choosing to donate, recycle, or responsibly dispose of your old dishwasher, you help reduce electronic waste and keep bulky appliances out of landfills. Plus, it’s easier than you think.
Whether you’re swapping it out for a modern upgrade or clearing space during a remodel, there’s a disposal option that fits—be it curbside pickup, haul-away, donation, or scrap metal recycling.
Not sure where to begin?
� Use the to find certified recycling centers, junk removal services, and donation programs near you. One search, and your dishwasher is on its way to the right place—not the wrong one.
