Disposing of old, broken lawn mowers can be a challenge, as they are often too large and heavy to throw away in the trash. Fortunately, there are several options available for those looking to get rid of their old lawn mowers.
One option is to contact local recycling centers or scrap yards. These facilities may be able to take old lawn mowers and recycle the metal components. You could contact local lawn care companies, as some may offer lawn mower removal services. Some cities and municipalities may offer special bulk waste pickup days where residents can dispose of large items such as lawn mowers.
But there are some other details you should know before getting started. The focus of this article is to help mitigate some of the challenges people face when getting rid of old mowers and help you find the best option for your area.
Options for Disposing of Old Lawn Mowers
When it comes to getting rid of an old lawn mower, there are several options available. Here are some of the most common ways to dispose of an old lawn mower:
Recycling Centers
Recycling centers are a great option for disposing of old lawn mowers. Most recycling centers accept metal and plastic parts, which make up the majority of lawn mowers. Some centers may also accept hazardous waste, such as fuel residue or carburetors. Fees may apply, so it’s best to check with the specific recycling center beforehand.
Junk Removal Services
Junk removal services are another option for disposing of an old lawn mower. These services will come to your home and pick up the lawn mower for you. They may charge a fee for this service, so it’s important to check beforehand. Junk removal services may also resell or scrap the lawn mower for parts.
Selling or Donating
Selling or donating an old lawn mower is another option. You can try selling it on websites such as Craigslist or eBay, or donate it to a charity or non-profit organization. Some manufacturers may also have a buyback program for old lawn mowers.
Curbside Pickup
Some waste management companies offer curbside pickup for old lawn mowers. Check with your local waste management company to see if this service is available in your area. It’s important to note that some companies may require the lawn mower to be disassembled before pickup.
Disposing of It Yourself
If you have the means to transport the lawn mower, you can dispose of it yourself. This may involve taking it to a recycling facility or scrap yard, or even giving it away to a neighbor or landscaping crew. It’s important to properly dispose of the lawn mower, including removing any fuel residue and disassembling any hazardous parts such as the carburator or blades.
Recycling Centers
Recycling centers are one of the best places to dispose of old lawn mowers. They are equipped to handle a wide range of materials and can recycle many of the parts that make up a lawn mower. Recycling centers typically accept metal and plastic parts, which make up the bulk of most lawn mowers.
When disposing of a lawn mower at a recycling center, it is important to separate the metal and plastic parts. This makes it easier for the center to recycle the materials and reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Some recycling centers may also accept hazardous waste, such as gasoline and oil, which should be disposed of properly.
Recycling centers often have specific guidelines for accepting lawn mowers, so it is important to check with the center before dropping off your old mower. Some centers may require the removal of certain parts, such as the battery or tires, before accepting the mower. Others may charge a fee for accepting certain types of lawn mowers.
Recycling centers are a great option for disposing of old lawn mowers. They are equipped to handle a wide range of materials and can recycle many of the parts that make up a lawn mower.
Junk Removal Services
Junk removal services are a great option for those looking to dispose of an old lawn mower. These services typically involve a team of professionals who will come to your home or business, pick up the lawn mower, and transport it to a disposal site.
One of the benefits of using a junk removal service is that they will do all the heavy lifting for you. You won’t have to worry about hauling the lawn mower to the curb or finding a truck to transport it. Junk removal services have the equipment and manpower to handle even the heaviest of items.
When choosing a junk removal service, it’s important to look for a company that is licensed and insured. This will ensure that any damage to your property or injury to the workers is covered. It’s also a good idea to check reviews and ratings from previous customers to ensure that the company is reputable.
Some junk removal services may offer curbside pickup, where they will come to your home and pick up the lawn mower from the curb. Others may require you to schedule a pickup time and have the lawn mower ready for transport.
Once the lawn mower has been transported, the junk removal service will dispose of it in an environmentally friendly manner. This may involve recycling any salvageable parts or properly disposing of hazardous materials.
Selling or Donating
When it comes to getting rid of old lawn mowers, there are several options available. One can choose to sell or donate the equipment.
Selling on Online Platforms
Selling old lawn mowers online is a popular option for those who want to make some extra cash. Online platforms like Craigslist and eBay are great places to sell used lawn mowers. One can also use social media to sell the equipment.
When selling on online platforms, it is important to be honest about the condition of the lawn mower. Providing clear pictures and descriptions will help potential buyers make informed decisions. One can also set a fair price for the equipment by researching similar items on the market.
Donating to Charity
Donating old lawn mowers to charity is a great way to give back to the community. Many donation centers accept used lawn mowers and other outdoor equipment. These organizations will often refurbish the equipment and donate it to those in need.
Before donating, it is important to research the charity to ensure they accept lawn mowers and that they are a reputable organization. One can also check with local schools or community centers to see if they are in need of outdoor equipment.
Selling on Online Platforms
Selling old lawn mowers on online platforms is a popular option for those looking to get rid of their old equipment. There are several online platforms where individuals can sell their old lawn mowers, such as Craigslist, eBay, and social media platforms.
- Craigslist: Craigslist is a popular online platform for selling items locally. It is free to use and easy to navigate. Individuals can post an ad for their old lawn mower and wait for potential buyers to contact them. However, it is important to be cautious when selling on Craigslist and meet potential buyers in a public place.
- eBay: eBay is another online platform where individuals can sell their old lawn mowers. It is a popular option for those looking to sell items to a wider audience. eBay charges a fee for listing items and takes a percentage of the final sale price. It is important to research the value of the lawn mower before listing it on eBay to ensure a fair price.
- Facebook Marketplace: Social media platforms, such as Facebook Marketplace, are also popular options for selling old lawn mowers. These platforms allow individuals to sell items to people in their local area. It is important to be cautious when selling on social media platforms and only meet potential buyers in a public place.
Selling old lawn mowers on online platforms can be a convenient and effective way to get rid of unwanted equipment. It is important to research the value of the lawn mower and be cautious when meeting potential buyers.
Donating to Charity
When it comes to disposing of old lawn mowers, donating them to charity can be a great option. Not only does it help you get rid of the equipment, but it also benefits a good cause. Here are some things to keep in mind if you are considering donating your old lawn mower to charity:
- Find a Local Charity: Look for a charity in your area that accepts lawn mower donations. You can start by checking with local non-profits and donation centers. Make sure to call ahead to confirm that they accept lawn mowers and to inquire about any specific requirements they may have.
- Check the Condition of The Lawn Mower: Before donating your lawn mower, make sure it is in good working condition. Charities typically accept equipment that is gently used and in good working order. If your lawn mower needs repairs, it may be better to sell it or dispose of it properly.
- Prepare the Lawn Mower for Donation: Once you have found a charity that accepts lawn mower donations, make sure to prepare the equipment for donation. This may include cleaning it, removing any personal items, and draining the fuel and oil.
- Consider Tax Deductions: Donating your old lawn mower to charity may be tax-deductible. Make sure to get a receipt from the charity for your donation, and consult with a tax professional to see if you are eligible for a deduction.
Donating your old lawn mower to charity is a great way to give back to your community while getting rid of unwanted equipment. Just make sure to do your research and follow any specific guidelines provided by the charity.
Curbside Pickup
Curbside pickup is a popular option for disposing of old lawn mowers. Many cities and municipalities offer curbside pickup of bulky items, including lawn mowers, as part of their regular garbage collection service.
To take advantage of curbside pickup, residents should check with their local waste management department to find out what the guidelines are for disposing of bulky items. Some cities require that residents schedule a pickup in advance, while others allow residents to simply place the item at the curb on their regular garbage collection day.
When preparing a lawn mower for curbside pickup, it is important to remove all fuel residue and other hazardous materials. This can be done by draining the fuel tank and oil reservoir and wiping down the mower with a clean cloth. Residents should also remove any attachments or accessories that are not part of the mower itself.
Once the lawn mower is ready for pickup, residents should place it at the curb on their designated pickup day. It is important to follow any guidelines provided by the waste management department, such as placing the mower in a specific location or ensuring that it is visible from the street.
Curbside pickup is a convenient and easy way to dispose of old lawn mowers. By following the guidelines provided by their local waste management department, residents can ensure that their old lawn mower is disposed of safely and responsibly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient | May require scheduling in advance |
| Part of regular garbage collection service | May have restrictions on size or weight |
| Easy to prepare for pickup | May require removal of hazardous materials |
| Free (in most cases) | May not be available in all areas |
Disposing of It Yourself
Preparing the Lawn Mower
Before disposing of an old lawn mower, it is important to prepare it properly. This will help ensure that it is safe to transport and dispose of, and that any hazardous materials are handled correctly. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Remove the Blades: The blades of the lawn mower are sharp and can cause injury. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the blades in place. Keep the blades in a safe place until you are ready to dispose of them.
- Drain the Fuel: Gasoline is a hazardous material that can be dangerous to transport and dispose of. Use a fuel siphon to drain the gas tank and dispose of the fuel properly.
- Remove the Hood: The hood of the lawn mower can be removed to make it easier to transport. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the hood in place.
- Remove the Carburetor: The carburetor is another hazardous material that should be removed before disposing of the lawn mower. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the carburetor in place.
- Remove the Foam: Some lawn mowers have foam filters that should be removed before disposing of the mower. This will help prevent any hazardous materials from escaping during transport.
Disposing of the Lawn Mower
Once the lawn mower has been properly prepared, it is time to dispose of it. Here are a few options to consider:
- Home Improvement Stores: Many home improvement stores accept old lawn mowers for recycling. Check with your local store to see if they offer this service.
- Manufacturer: Some lawn mower manufacturers offer recycling programs for their products. Check with the manufacturer of your lawn mower to see if they offer this service.
- Landscaping Crew: If you have a landscaping crew that takes care of your lawn, they may be able to dispose of the old lawn mower for you.
- Trailer: If you have a trailer, you can transport the lawn mower to a recycling center yourself. Be sure to follow all local regulations for transporting hazardous materials.
- Wheelbarrows: If you do not have a trailer, you can use a wheelbarrow to transport the lawn mower to a recycling center.
Preparing the Lawn Mower
When it comes to disposing of old lawn mowers, it is important to prepare the machine carefully. This ensures that it is safe for the crew and easy to transport. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Drain the Fuel: Before transporting the lawn mower, it is important to remove any fuel that may be left in the tank. This can be done by running the engine until it runs out of fuel or by using a siphon to remove the fuel manually.
- Remove the Blades: The blades of the lawn mower can be dangerous if they are not handled properly. Use a wrench to remove the bolts that hold the blades in place. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection while doing this.
- Remove the Hood: Depending on the type of lawn mower, the hood may need to be removed before it can be transported. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on how to do this.
- Disconnect the Carburetor: The carburetor should be disconnected to prevent any fuel from leaking during transport. Again, consult the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance on how to do this.
- Secure Loose Parts: Check the lawn mower for any loose parts that may fall off during transport. Use foam or wheelbarrows to secure these parts and prevent damage to the machine.
Disposing of the Lawn Mower
When it comes to disposing of an old lawn mower, there are a few options available. It is important to dispose of the lawn mower properly to avoid any hazardous waste and to ensure that the machine is recycled or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.
One option for disposing of an old lawn mower is to take it to a local recycling center or scrap metal yard. These facilities will often accept old lawn mowers and other small engines for recycling. It is important to call ahead to confirm that they accept lawn mowers and to check if there are any fees associated with disposal.
Another option is to contact the manufacturer of the lawn mower. Many manufacturers have take-back programs or recycling programs in place for their products. They will often accept old lawn mowers and recycle them or dispose of them properly.
If neither of these options is available, it may be necessary to dispose of the lawn mower as hazardous waste. This should only be done as a last resort and should be done in accordance with local regulations. It is important to check with local authorities to determine the proper way to dispose of hazardous waste in your area.
Overall, it is important to take the time to properly dispose of an old lawn mower. By doing so, you can help protect the environment and avoid any potential hazards associated with improper disposal. Most cities or counties will have a website detailing what they will and won’t take, here is my local facility in Denton, TX.