Can I Recycle My Washing Machine?

How much you’ll have to pay for washing machine removal depends on who you get to do it. Your local council may be cheaper but less efficient. While private companies charge more but can collect at a time that suits you.

The cost of the collection and disposal of your washing machine with the council depends on where you are in the UK. Some local councils, for example, charge around £30-35 for up to three bulky items, and this usually includes washing machines. If you receive Council Tax Support, this amount is often reduced. But as this is non-refundable once it’s been paid, it’s worth making sure that this is the option you want before booking a collection time.

It’s a good idea to check your council’s website to make sure washing machines are listed as collectable. You should also be able to find out when they can collect. Sometimes be waiting up to two weeks. Councils only pick up from the kerbside, so if you need your washing machine collected sooner rather than later, you may want to consider a private recycling company.

It’s worth getting a quote on recycling collection as there are some free or cheap options out there. AO.com, for example, offer to collect and recycle your washing machine for £20 and at a convenient time for you. If you’re in the London area, companies like Clearabee will collect for free. You’ll want to make sure the company you choose has the right licence to handle hazardous waste and can dispose of it responsibly. You can quickly check whether a company has a waste disposal licence via the official registers for England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

If you’re purchasing a brand new washing machine, it might be beneficial to add the collection of your old appliance to your order. Many companies will allow you to opt for washing machine removal and will happily take your old appliance away when they deliver the new one. It’s important that you make sure they offer this service before finalising your purchase.

When it comes to your old washing machine, you have several options for disposal. But if your machine is still in working order, two of the most sustainable options to consider are selling it or donating it.

There often comes a time when we need to upgrade our washing machine. Perhaps you need more space or the weekly wash has suddenly grown. If this is the case and your old machine still works, donating it to a local charity is a great way to make sure it’ll be put to good use. It’s important to research what charities take large appliances. If they don’t, they may be able to recommend a charity that does. You may also want to check if the charity can collect your appliance if transporting it is an issue. Another option is to ask friends and neighbours. They might know someone in need of a washing machine.

Fancy making a bit of cash? Selling your old washing machine is also a good way to recycle it. Selling it on sites such as Gumtree is hassle and cost free. You can also decide if you want to offer delivery or collection only and negotiate the price with the right buyer. Another option is simply contacting local electrical shops that might be interested in buying it off you or putting you in contact with other companies who would.

Most tips are now authorised waste recycle centres that are able to break down appliances in a responsible way. If your washing machine no longer works and you have the means to transport it to the local tip, then this is an easy option. But it’s always worthwhile checking beforehand that your local tip is equipped for recycling washing machines. If you can transport it yourself, it’s also important to know how to remove the machine correctly and have help lifting it to prevent injury.

As we’ve mentioned, your main choices include recycling centres, selling it on Gumtree or taking it to the local tip. Assuming it still works, you could also try donating your old appliance to charity or giving it to a friend or neighbour who needs one. With various options available, it’s now even easier to dispose of your washing machine without sending it straight to a landfill. Most waste collection services, including your local waste recycling centre, will break down the machine and recycle the materials where possible.

It’s important to understand the negative impact on the environment if your washing machine is disposed of incorrectly. Washing machines are one of many household and kitchen appliances that, when sent to landfills, will produce greenhouse gases. These increase carbon dioxide emissions, resulting in global warming. That’s why it’s so important to dispose of your washing machine responsibly. Some older machines can also contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which can further erode the Earth’s ozone layer (the barrier in the Earth’s atmosphere that protects us from solar radiation).

That said, there’s no need to worry about washing machine disposal. Recycling a washing machine responsibly has never been easier and needn’t cost the Earth. Check out our ultimate guide to appliance removal for even more handy tips.