Upgrading your kitchen often leaves you with one bulky, heavy, and grimy question mark: What do I do with the old garbage disposal?
Because these units are comprised of heavy-duty metals and electrical components, they shouldn’t simply be tossed into your kitchen trash bin. This guide covers everything from eco-friendly recycling and scrap metal value to donation and responsible disposal.
Quick Summary: Your Disposal Options at a Glance
If you’re looking for a fast answer, use this table to determine the best path for your old unit based on its condition.
| Option | Best For… | Environmental Impact | Difficulty |
| Scrap Metal Recycling | Units that are broken, rusted, or leaking. | Low (Highly Sustainable) | Moderate (Requires transport) |
| Manufacturer Take-back | Specific brands (like InSinkErator). | Low | Easy |
| Donation | Working units replaced for cosmetic reasons. | Low | Easy |
| Hazardous Waste Center | Units in cities with strict appliance laws. | Low | Moderate |
| General Trash | Non-recyclable units (Last resort). | High | Very Easy |
1. Recycling: The Best Eco-Friendly Choice
Garbage disposals are mechanical “gold mines”—not for actual gold, but for high-quality metals. A standard unit is composed of a heavy induction motor, copper wiring, and a stainless steel or galvanized steel grinding chamber.
Scrap Metal Yards
Most local scrap yards will gladly take an old garbage disposal. Because of the heavy copper windings inside the motor, these units have a small “scrap value.” While you might only get a few dollars (or nothing at all, depending on the yard), you are ensuring that the metal is melted down and reused rather than taking up space in a landfill.
E-Waste Programs
Since garbage disposals contain a power cord and a motor, many municipalities classify them as E-Waste (Electronic Waste). Check your city’s sanitation website for “Appliance Recycling” or “E-Waste Drop-off” days.
2. Donating: Give Your Unit a Second Life
If you replaced your disposal simply because you wanted a more powerful model or a quieter one—but the old one still works—don’t scrap it.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore: These centers accept used appliances that are still in good working condition to resell at a discount, with proceeds going toward building affordable housing.
- Local Charities: Small local shelters or community centers may have a “fix-it” program or a need for a functional unit.
- Online Marketplaces: Post it for free on platforms like Buy Nothing groups, Freecycle, or Facebook Marketplace. Someone moving into a fixer-upper might be thrilled to take it off your hands.
Note: Always clean the unit thoroughly with a mix of baking soda and vinegar before donating to ensure it is hygienic and presentable.
3. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs
Some leading brands are becoming more conscious of their environmental footprint. Before you head to the dump, check the manufacturer’s website.
- InSinkErator: They have historically partnered with various recycling initiatives.
- Retailer Programs: Big-box stores like Best Buy or Home Depot occasionally offer “haul-away” services when you purchase a new appliance, ensuring the old one is recycled properly.
4. Responsible Landfill Disposal
If recycling or donating isn’t an option, you may have to throw it away. However, you must follow specific steps to be a responsible “thrasher.”
- Check Local Ordinances: Many cities have “White Goods” laws that prohibit large appliances from being put in the regular trash. You may need to schedule a “Bulky Item Pickup.”
- Drain the Fluids: While disposals don’t have refrigerants like fridges, they can hold stagnant, smelly water. Tip it over a bucket to drain it completely.
- Cut the Cord: For safety, many experts recommend cutting the power cord off the unit so no one attempts to plug in a faulty, dangerous machine.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Toss It
Garbage disposals are heavy. When they end up in a landfill, the heavy metals (like the copper and steel) don’t biodegrade. Over decades, these metals can leach into the soil. Furthermore, the sheer weight of these units adds significantly to the carbon footprint of waste transport. By choosing a recycling or scrap option, you contribute to a circular economy.
Pre-Disposal Checklist
Before you say goodbye to your old unit, run through this quick list:
- Disconnection: Ensure the power is off at the breaker before removal.
- Wrenchette: Keep the small “jamming” wrench that came with the old unit; it often works on the new one too!
- Hardware: Check if the mounting ring from the old unit is compatible with the new one; sometimes keeping the old hardware can save you installation time.
- Cleanliness: If donating, run a final cycle with ice and lemon peels to deodorize.
