Written By Karen Bodkin
Step-by-Step Washer and Dryer Removal Process
Getting rid of a washer and dryer can feel like a big project, especially since they can’t be tossed out like regular trash, but breaking it into stages makes the job safer and more efficient. Tackling one step at a time helps you stay organized and keeps the process from becoming overwhelming.
1. Prepare the Appliances
A little preparation really matters when moving appliances. It makes every step that follows easier, and it helps keep you and anyone helping you safer.
- Empty and clean. Run an empty wash cycle with hot water and vinegar to flush out detergent buildup. Wipe down the dryer drum and clear the lint trap.
- Disconnect safely. Start with the washer by shutting off the water supply valves, then unhooking the hoses. For an electric dryer, simply unplug the power cord. If you have a gas dryer, make sure the gas valve is turned off before you disconnect the line. Not sure how to do that safely? You should call a licensed technician. Finally, detach the dryer vent hose so it’s ready to move.
- Drain excess water. Lay hoses in a bucket or sink to catch remaining water. Make sure you keep a towel handy for drips.
- Secure loose parts. Tape power cords to the side of each unit, and place hoses, vent tubing, and small hardware in a labeled bag so they don’t get lost.
2. Assess Condition and Value
Before you decide where your washer and dryer will go, take a moment to check what kind of shape they’re in. This step matters because donation centers and recycling facilities often have rules about what they can accept. Knowing ahead of time saves you the frustration (and sometimes the cost) of hauling appliances somewhere only to be turned away.
- Working and in good shape. No major rust, damage, or missing parts, and it functions fully. Washers and dryers in this condition are good candidates for donation or resale.
- Needs minor repair. Appliances in this condition are still valuable to repair shops or DIY buyers. You could also consider selling them for parts.
- Nonfunctional or badly damaged. Recycling or junk removal is usually the best (and sometimes only) option.
3. Plan the Removal
Once you know the condition of your appliances and the best way to dispose of them, you can start prepping for removal. Taking a little time to plan ahead will save you money, prevent damage, and make the whole process easier on both you and your home.
- Measure doorways and pathways. This is to make sure the appliances will fit during removal. You don’t want to start hauling the dryer outside only to find it won’t fit around a tight corner or through the back door.
- Decide if you need equipment. Appliance dollies, moving straps, and furniture sliders are all tools that can make moving your washer and dryer easier.
- Line up help. Moving these heavy machines alone typically isn’t a good idea. Friends, family, or vetted labor through MovingPlace are all good options to tap into for assistance.
4. Decide the Best Way to Get Rid of Your Washer and Dryer
The best way to get rid of an old washer and dryer depends on their condition and how fast you need them removed. Knowing whether you prioritize convenience or environmental impact can also help you determine the most suitable disposal method for your circumstances.
Here’s how to decide what to do next:
- If your appliances are in good condition, consider selling or donating your washer and dryer. These options keep your appliances in use while earning you money or tax deductions.
- If your washer and dryer need minor repairs, then selling your appliances to a repair shop allows you to recoup some of their value while keeping them out of landfill.
- If they’re broken or very old, taking your washer and dryer to a recycling or scrap metal facility is usually the most responsible option. This way, you recover as much reusable material as possible and reduce the amount of waste going to landfill.
- If you need them gone quickly, then scheduling junk removal or municipal pickup services is often the fastest way to get rid of your washer and dryer.
- If you’re replacing them with new appliances, you can check whether your retailer provides haul-away services for old appliances during delivery.
Washer and Dryer Disposal Options
As mentioned, once you’ve cleaned and disconnected your appliances, several disposal options are available depending on their condition. Determining how to dispose of them usually comes down to how well they work, how quickly you need them gone, and what’s available where you live.
Donate Your Washer and Dryer
If your appliances work, donating them helps others and keeps them out of the landfill.
Organizations that accept washers and dryers in good condition include:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores
- Goodwill
- Salvation Army
Some charities offer free pickup, while others require drop-off. Whether you’re eligible for pickup generally depends on your location, so be sure to contact the donation centers you’re interested in to ask what their options and policies are. It’s also worth asking about donation receipts, as you may qualify for a tax deduction if you itemize.
Selling Through Online Marketplaces
If you’d rather sell, local marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp are good places to start. Include a few clear photos, and be honest about any repairs the appliance might need up front.
You should also set a price that reflects the appliance’s age, brand, and condition. Check similar local listings to help you determine a reasonable price point, and consider setting your price slightly lower if you need to sell your appliance quickly.
Whenever possible, have the buyer pick the appliance up. Buyer pickup reduces the risk of damaging your washer and dryer and means you won’t have to do the heavy lifting twice.
Recycling at Local Facilities
If your washer or dryer no longer works, your best bet is to take it to a scrap metal yard or an appliance recycling center. Recycling keeps metals, plastics, and electronic components out of the landfill and puts those materials back into use. Every facility has its own policies, though. Some may charge a small fee, while others pay you for the scrap value, and many have specific drop-off times or requirements. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the website of your local center before making the trip.
Junk Removal Services
If you need your washer and dryer gone quickly, junk removal companies are often the fastest solution. Providers like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? will come to your home, load up the appliances, and haul them away for a fee. This can be especially helpful if you don’t have the time, equipment, or extra hands to move such heavy items on your own.
Junk removal costs vary by area. Most homeowners pay between $70 and $205 per appliance for washer and dryer removal.
Where your appliances end up depends on the company. Some take them directly to a landfill, while others might bring them to recycling centers. If being environmentally conscious is important to you, ask about their disposal practices in advance. In some cases, you may want to handle the recycling yourself to be sure the materials are reclaimed rather than discarded.
Curbside or Municipal Bulk Pickup
Some cities offer large-item pickup for appliances. You may need to pay a small fee, and many cities require you to prebook a collection slot by phone or online. In some areas, you’ll need to place your appliance at the curb the night before or the morning of your scheduled collection. If your appliance contains refrigerants (some washer-dryer combos), the city may require removal by a certified technician first.
To learn more about curbside pickups in your area, search for terms like “bulk item pickup” or “large appliance disposal” on your municipal waste department’s website. Alternatively, you can call your local sanitation department to confirm waste collection information.
Retailer Haul-Away Programs
Many retailers provide haul-away services for your old washer and dryer when they deliver your new appliances. These services may be free or incur a fee, depending on your retailer’s policies. Scheduling appliance removal with the same company is a convenient option if you’re planning on replacing your washer and dryer.
Comparison of Washer and Dryer Disposal Options
The best way to get rid of a washer and dryer isn’t the same for everyone. Your choice will depend on their condition and how quickly you need them removed, and whether you’d rather save money, save time, or keep them out of the landfill.
The table below makes it easy to compare the most common options side by side so you can see what fits your situation best:
| Disposal Method | Cost | Convenience | Environmental Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Donation | Free | Medium; pickup may be offered | High; extends use |
| Selling | Possible earnings | Medium; requires listing | High; extends use |
| Recycling | Low fee or free | Medium; drop-off or pickup | High; reclaims materials |
| Junk Removal Service | Mid to high fee ($70 to $205 on average) | High; full-service removal | Medium; depends on provider |
| Municipal Bulk Pickup | Low fee or free | Medium; set schedule | Medium; some recycling |
| Retailer Haul-Away | Low fee or free ($10 to $50) | High; full-service removal | Medium; depends on retailer |
Things to Consider Before Getting Rid of an Old Washer and Dryer
Considering a few practical factors can help you determine how to get rid of your washer and dryer. Safety considerations, environmental rules, and cost or convenience can all impact which option best suits your needs.
Safety
Moving a washer and dryer has to be primarily about safety. Always unplug the units before doing any work. For washers, turn off the water supply and drain the hoses completely. For electric dryers, unplug the cord from the wall. If you have a gas dryer, shut off the gas valve before disconnecting the line. And if you’re not comfortable doing that yourself, call a professional.
Environmental and Legal Impact
Washers and dryers contain metal, plastic, and electronic components that can often be reused. Recycling prevents many of these materials from ending up in landfills, while donating or selling your appliances keeps them in use, minimizing the impact on the environment. Even a broken machine can often be stripped for parts.
Many cities have rules governing the disposal of large appliances to prevent environmental damage. Some washer-dryer combos and certain heat-pump dryers contain refrigerants that need to be removed by a certified professional before disposal. Check with your local recycling center or municipal waste program to stay compliant with local guidelines.
Cost and Convenience
Your budget and schedule often play a big role in how you decide to part with your washer and dryer. Donation pickups are usually free, but you might have to wait a week or more for availability. As for recycling, some facilities accept appliances at no cost, while others charge a small handling fee.
If you’re buying a new washer or dryer, check whether the retailer offers free haul-away with delivery. Some junk removal companies will also reduce their rate if you’re removing multiple items in the same trip.
Another tip to cut costs is to coordinate appliance removal with other moving tasks. For example, if you’re already hiring help for bulky furniture, adding a washer and dryer to the same service call can be more efficient than booking two separate jobs.
The Best Way to Get Rid of Your Washer and Dryer
Think about what matters most to you when deciding how to get rid of your old washer and dryer. If you want to help someone else and keep your appliances out of the landfill, donation or recycling is the way to go. If you need them gone quickly, junk removal or your city’s bulk pickup service might be the better option.
You should also be honest about the help and equipment you have on hand. Washers and dryers are heavy and awkward to move without a dolly, straps, or extra hands. If you don’t have those things, hiring professionals can save you from injury or damage.
The best choice is the one that fits your priorities, your schedule, and the resources you have right now.
