As technology changes and your old tools become useless, it’s important to know how to properly get rid of them. One of these tools is an old lawn mower, which can’t just be thrown away because it might hurt the environment.
Because of this, our team of junk removal experts is here to give you some ideas on what to do with an old lawn mower that are both convenient and legal and good for the environment.
Before you get rid of your lawn mower, you should make sure you know the rules and regulations set by your local government or waste management authorities. These regulations can vary widely depending on your location. Some areas may have specific rules regarding the disposal of large appliances.
Visit the website for your city or county or call the local waste management authority to learn about how to properly dispose of trash, when it will be collected, and where to drop it off. This step ensures youre following the correct procedures according to your local laws.
Some areas might require permits or have restrictions on how you can dispose of certain items. For example, they might say that lawn mowers can’t be put in regular trash pickups or that big items can only be picked up on certain dates.
Before you throw away your old lawn mower, you need to clean and drain it properly to avoid leaks, spills, and contamination while moving and taking it apart.
Remove gasoline and oil, which are hazardous materials that can harm the environment if they leak during disposal. You can run the mower until the tank is empty to use up the remaining fuel.
Detach plug wires and take out spark plugs to prevent accidental engine ignition during the disposal process. This step is vital for your safety and for those handling the mower later.
Clear out any debris, grass clippings, and dirt from the mower. Cleaning the mower makes it safer to use and stops germs from spreading when it’s recycled or thrown away.
Lawn mowers are made of many recyclable materials, such as metals (like steel and aluminum), plastics, and maybe even other parts like rubber tires.
Contact recycling centers and find out about their lawn mower policies. Ask how to drop off lawn mowers, if they can pick them up, if they need to be taken apart, and if they accept both gas-powered and electric mowers.
If the recycling center accepts lawn mowers, they might have specific instructions for preparation. This could include draining any remaining fluids, removing the battery, and separating components such as blades.
Getting rid of an old or broken lawn mower can seem like a daunting task. However with the right preparation and knowledge disposing of a lawn mower properly doesn’t have to be difficult. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through all the steps and options for responsibly getting rid of both gas and electric mowers.
Why It’s Time for a New Lawn Mower
There are several reasons you may need to get rid of your existing lawn mower and look for a replacement:
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Your mower is constantly breaking down and needs expensive repairs At some point it becomes more cost effective to invest in a new mower
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The mower doesn’t properly cut your grass anymore, leaving an uneven and ragged lawn despite sharpening the blades. An upgrade is needed.
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You want to become more environmentally friendly and are switching to an electric mower instead of gas-powered.
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You’re downsizing to a smaller yard or apartment living and no longer need a mower.
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You simply want to upgrade to a newer model with more features.
Regardless of what’s prompting the need for a new mower, the next step is properly getting rid of the old one.
Options for Disposing of a Non-Working Lawn Mower
If your lawn mower is broken beyond repair and needs to be disposed of, you have several responsible options:
Take It to a Dump or Transfer Station
Most local dumps and transfer stations will accept old lawn mowers, especially if they are mainly metal components. However, you’ll need to remove any gasoline, oil, or batteries first since those materials aren’t accepted. This usually just involves draining the gas tank and removing an oil drain plug.
Call ahead to verify your local facility accepts mowers and if any fees apply. Expect to pay a small disposal fee. You’ll need to transport the mower yourself to the dump or transfer station.
Donate to a Mechanic or Repair Shop
Some small engine repair shops may accept donations of broken lawn mowers they can scavenge for usable parts. Call shops in your area to see if they want your old mower. If the engine itself is shot, they may not be interested, but it never hurts to ask.
Recycle the Metal Components
With some disassembly, you can separate the steel parts of a mower and take those scraps to a metal recycling center. Again, drain all fluids first. Depending on your location, some metal recyclers may even pay a small amount per pound for steel. Remove any plastic pieces first. Call metal recycling yards to ask about their policies.
Junk Removal
You can always hire a junk removal service to conveniently haul away a broken lawn mower. Look for companies that responsibly recycle as much as possible. Understand that fees will apply for their labor, gas, and disposal costs. Compare rates from at least 3 junk haulers before choosing one.
Curbside Bulk Pickup
Some municipalities offer special curbside pickup days for bulk items like appliances and lawn mowers. However, the mower cannot contain any gasoline. Check your local sanitation department’s website for schedules and policies. Fees often apply.
How to Dispose of an Electric Lawn Mower
Getting rid of an electric mower requires a different approach than a gas-powered one. Here are your options:
Recycle at an E-Waste Facility
The only way to properly dispose of an electric mower’s motor, battery, and wiring is to take it to an approved e-waste recycling facility. These special centers know how to safely handle lithium-ion batteries. Locate one near you via Earth911.com. Expect to pay a small recycling fee.
Donate to Habitat for Humanity
Some Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations accept donations of working electric lawn mowers. Call your local ReStore first to verify. Make sure the mower is in good operating condition before donating.
Sell Online
List your working electric mower for sale on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, or other sites. Take clear photos, note the model details, and disclose any existing wear or damage upfront. Set a fair asking price based on its age and condition.
Give to Friend or Neighbor
Do you know someone who could use an electric mower? Ask around among friends, family or neighbors to see if anyone is interested in taking it off your hands for free, provided they can move it themselves.
Tips for Getting Rid of a Working Gas Mower
When your lawn mower is still in good, operable condition, you have several more options for responsibly disposing of it:
Sell Online
Selling online via Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or eBay is the most profitable route. Take detailed photos of the mower from all angles and be upfront about its age, features, and any minor flaws. Research prices for comparable mower models and condition. Handle the sale locally for cash upon pickup.
Donate to Charity
Some charities like the Salvation Army and Goodwill accept donated goods they can resell, which may include gently used lawn mowers. Contact your local chapters first to verify their acceptance policies as these vary by location. Make sure to bring any needed fuel or oil.
Give to Friends or Family
Do you know anyone looking for a quality used mower? Ask around among your personal network. Offering it up for free to someone you know is an easy way to find a new home for a working mower. Just be transparent about its age and maintenance needs.
Trade In
When purchasing a new mower from a dealer, ask if they offer a trade-in program where they’ll take your old mower as credit towards a new one. This conveys convenience and some cost savings. Call dealers ahead to learn their trade-in terms.
Sell to a Mechanic
Some small engine repair shops may be interested in buying your used but operational lawn mower at a discounted price they can then resell for profit after any fixes. Call local shops to inquire if they offer this option.
Host a Garage Sale
Having a garage sale is the perfect time to get rid of a working mower along with other items. Advertise the mower model and features, have it freshly cleaned, and attach a fair asking price. Provide fuel so buyers can test it.
Dos and Don’ts of Lawn Mower Disposal
There are right and wrong ways to get rid of an old lawn mower. Here are some key dos and don’ts to keep in mind:
DON’T Throw It Away with Household Trash
It’s illegal to leave a lawn mower at the curb or toss it in your household trash bins. These items must be disposed of properly via approved methods.
DO Drain All Gasoline and Oil
Whether taking your mower to a dump or selling it privately, you must fully drain the gas tank and oil beforehand. Dispose of these hazardous fluids properly. Never transport or dispose of a gas-filled mower.
DON’T Abandon It Illegally
Illegally dumping a lawn mower alongside roads or in vacant lots can result in hefty fines. Every area has proper recycling and disposal programs to utilize.
DO Remove Batteries from Electric Mowers
The batteries inside electric mowers must be taken out and brought to a battery recycling location, not trashed whole.
DO Research Your Local Disposal Options
Rules, fees, and capabilities vary widely across dumps, recycling centers, and junk haulers. Do your homework to identify the best choices near you.
DON’T Mislead Buyers
If reselling a used mower, disclose its true condition, age, and functions. Don’t hide defects or misrepresent features.
Finding the Best Lawn Mower Disposal Method for You
Getting rid of a lawn mower doesn’t need to be a chore. With this comprehensive guide, you now understand the array of smart options at your disposal. Taking the time to dispose of your mower properly keeps hazardous materials out of landfills and gives used equipment a second life.
Think through your needs – do you want to make money back? Need maximum convenience? Prefer recycling? Then simply select the disposal method that fits your priorities. With a practical action plan, you can smoothly transition from your old mower to a brand new model. Here’s to keeping your lawn well-maintained this season!
Donate or resell lawn mower
Donating or selling your old lawn mower can be a fun way to get more use out of it and reduce waste.
Look for local charities, community organizations, or individuals who might be interested in receiving a used lawn mower. Websites, social media platforms, and community bulletin boards can be helpful resources.
Check out our guide on how to donate houseware and furniture here.
If the mower is in decent condition, you could consider selling it. Platforms such as online classifieds, marketplace websites, or local buy-and-sell groups are great places to list your mower.
Disassembling the lawn mower can aid in separating its components for proper recycling and disposal. However, this step requires caution and some mechanical skills.
Refer to the manufacturers manual for guidance on disassembly. Manuals often provide step-by-step instructions and safety precautions. If you no longer have the manual, check out an online archive such as Manuals Online to find your mower.
Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and protective eyewear, when disassembling the mower. Some parts might still have sharp edges or residual fluids.
Use the right tools for disassembly to avoid damaging components. Common tools might include wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers.
Separate components such as the engine, frame, cutting blade, and plastic parts. Keep metals separate from plastics, as they will likely be recycled differently. Then, put the parts in a safe place to be organized and stored until you’re ready to take them to the right place for recycling or disposal.
Before you throw away your old lawn mower, you might want to save any parts that are still in good shape and can be used for projects like repairs or replacements.
Check the lawn mower’s different parts, like the starter motor, wheels, handles, and other working parts, very carefully. Store the salvaged parts in a safe and organized manner. Label them if necessary, so you can easily identify and use them in the future.
Get in touch with local lawn mower repair shops or do-it-yourselfers who might want to buy or use the used parts. Consider listing the parts on online marketplaces or platforms that specialize in selling used parts. This can connect you with potential buyers looking for cost-effective solutions.
If your lawn mower is electric and has a battery, it falls under electronic waste (e-waste). E-waste must be handled properly because it contains hazardous materials.
If your electric lawn mower has a removable battery, detach it according to the manufacturers instructions. Recycling these batteries helps recover these materials while preventing environmental contamination.
Locate e-waste recycling facilities in your area. These facilities are equipped to handle batteries and other electronic components safely.
Take the battery and any other electronic components to the designated e-waste collection point. Many communities have specific drop-off locations for e-waste.
Hiring a professional disposal service might be the best option in some situations, especially if you’re dealing with dangerous materials or taking apart things that are hard to put together.
Research waste disposal companies that specialize in handling hazardous materials and large appliances such as lawn mowers. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? takes care of all kinds of trash, recycling what we can and getting rid of the rest in a safe and responsible way.
Contact the disposal services to understand their offerings, including pickup, transportation, and environmentally responsible disposal methods. You can be sure that when you contact us, we will follow all local rules and environmental guidelines for proper waste management.
How to Mow a Lawn CORRECTLY
FAQ
How do I dispose of a lawn mower near me?
Who picks up old lawn mowers for free?
How do I give away a lawn mower?
Does Home Depot recycle old lawn mowers?
How do I get rid of a lawn mower?
Electric mowers can be brought straight to a household electrical recycling center. There are pretty much only two big conditions to consider when talking about getting rid of lawn mowers: either the lawn mower is still operational, or it’s broken. The way that you get rid of a lawn mower really depends on this factor.
How to dispose of a riding lawn mower?
If you find yourself wondering how to dispose of a riding lawn mower, one option to consider is selling it. Selling your riding lawn mower can be a great way to get rid of it while also making some extra cash. There are a few different ways you can go about selling your mower.
How do you recycle a lawn mower?
To recycle, drain all fluids from the mower and dispose of them as household hazardous waste. Remove all non-metal pieces of the mower so you can recycle the scrap metal, and bring it to a recycling facility. Alternatively, you can donate the mower if it still works, sell it online, give it away, or call a junk removal service if it’s broken.
What should I do if my lawn mower is not working?
If it’s still in working order, consider selling it or donating it to someone in need. There may be someone in your community who would be grateful for a free or inexpensive lawn mower. On the other hand, if the lawn mower is no longer operational, you’ll need to find a recycling center or disposal facility that accepts large machinery.
What can I do with my old lawn mower?
This could be donating the mower to a local charity organization, dropping it off at a neighbor’s house, bringing it to a local small engine mechanic’s garage, or even just leaving it at the curb with a “free” sign. Giving stuff away for free is by far the easiest means of disposal.
How do you clean a lawn mower?
You can run the mower until the tank is empty to use up the remaining fuel. Detach plug wires and take out spark plugs to prevent accidental engine ignition during the disposal process. This step is vital for your safety and for those handling the mower later. Clear out any debris, grass clippings, and dirt from the mower.