How to Dispose of a Washing Machine

What to do with my old washing machine

Washing machines are classed as hazardous waste so they cannot be thrown away together with general household rubbish. This is because washing machines contain materials that can be harmful to the environment if they end up in a landfill.

A washing machine is mostly made up of metal and plastic, but some older models also contain chlorofluorocarbons which are harmful to the ozone layer. All of these individual components need to be separated by qualified people and recycled properly either at a recycling centre or through a waste collection company.

It’s better to do your research first when finding out how to get rid of old washing machine. UK laws are strict around what types of waste are disposed of where and you could get a fine for incorrectly disposing of certain items.

Disposal of washing machine for free

Before you condemn your washing machine have you considered whether it can be used by someone else? This is particularly useful if you’re looking for disposal of washing machine for free near you. You could ask around friends and family, social media groups or even classified ads.

Offering a free washing machine means the person taking it off your hands would probably be happy to collect it themselves, making your life easier. You could even try to recycle old washing machine for cash, but you might be expected to deliver it to its destination.

How to take out a washing machine

Do some research on how to remove a washing machine before you start to make sure the transition between old and new machine is smooth. You’ll likely need to move the machine away from the wall slowly, keeping track of the pipes and cables so as not to pull anything out suddenly. You’ll also need to turn off the water supply. You can do this using the isolation valves, but if there are none you’ll need to turn the water off at the main supply.

When thinking how do I get rid of old appliances, the same rough principles apply. Always work slowly and have a plan in place for each step to reduce the risk of damage to your equipment and potential danger.

Washing machine disposal

Old washing machine disposal can be problem-free if you know what you’re doing. If you’re washing machine no longer works and can’t be passed on, you might be wondering how to dispose of washing machine UK. There a few ways to do this:

• Scrap washing machine collection, or old washing machine removal
• Washing machine recycling

Many businesses offer a scrap washing machine collection service that applies to washing machines. You will be asked to pay a small fee for the collection of your scrap washing machine.

Washing machine collection

Old washing machine collection services will take away washing machines to be broken down and recycled for you. This is probably the easiest method of how to dispose of washing machines. You hardly need to do anything beyond making sure the collection service has easy access to the machine when they arrive. Ensure the company you use is authorised to handle hazardous waste and you’ll know that your machine is being dealt with responsibly.

The company providing washing machine recycling pickup will arrange a convenient time and date to collect your washing machine when you enquire.

Washing machine removal

If you’ve bought a new washing machine to replace the old one you might not need to consider old washing machine removal. Some companies provide a removal service that acts as a swap (buy washing machine: take old one away.) It’s useful to check whenever you make a large purchase if this service is available.

Can I recycle my old washing machine and tumble dryer?

The guidelines on recycling washing machines also extend to tumble dryers and washer dryers. These machines are largely made up of the same types of materials meaning the most responsible thing to do is recycle washer and dryer machines with a registered hazardous waste handler.

Where to recycle washing machines

If you can transport your washing machine, you could take it to a recycling centre close by. Most recycling centres are able to accept hazardous waste such as large household items, but it could be a good idea to check beforehand.

When it comes to where to recycle old washing machines a search of recycling centres in your area should show any that are local to you, or alternatively, you could call your local council to find out.

To find out more about the correct disposal of washing machines, or to arrange a collection, call us on 01304 626364, or fill in our contact form.