How to Dispose of an Old Dishwasher? 7 Options [2026]
The easiest way to dispose of an old dishwasher is curbside junk removal starting at $79 with same-day pickup. If you are buying a new dishwasher, retailers like Best Buy offer haul-away for $199.99 (up to 2 appliances). Free options include city bulk pickup, scrap metal recycling, and appliance donation programs.
| Method | Cost | Speed | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| City bulk pickup | Free | 2–8 weeks | Must schedule in advance |
| Dropcurb | $79 | Same day | Place at curb, book online |
| Best Buy haul-away | $199.99 | With delivery | Must purchase new appliance |
| 1-800-GOT-JUNK | $150–$300+ | 2–3 days | In-person estimate required |
| LoadUp | $89–$143 | 2–5 days | Online booking |
| Scrap metal yard | Free (get paid $5–$15) | Same day | Must transport yourself |
| Donation (Habitat ReStore) | Free | 3–14 days | Dishwasher must work |
Can You Put an Old Dishwasher in the Trash?
No. Dishwashers are too large and heavy (60–80 lbs) for regular curbside trash pickup. Most municipalities classify dishwashers as bulk items or appliances that require special scheduling. Placing one in regular trash can result in fines.
Dishwashers also contain recyclable metals (stainless steel, copper wiring) that should not go to landfill. Many states have appliance recycling requirements that prohibit landfill disposal of major appliances.
Does Best Buy Take Old Dishwashers?
Yes. Best Buy offers appliance haul-away for $199.99, which covers up to 2 large appliances plus unlimited smaller items. The catch: you must purchase a new appliance and schedule delivery. Best Buy hauls away the old dishwasher when they deliver the new one.
Important: your old dishwasher must be disconnected before delivery day. Best Buy will not disconnect plumbing or electrical — if the dishwasher is still connected when they arrive, they will not take it. Plan to disconnect it yourself or hire a plumber ($50–$100) the day before.
How Much Does Dishwasher Disposal Cost?
Professional dishwasher removal ranges from $79 to $300+ depending on the service:
- •Dropcurb: $79 for curbside pickup, same-day service, book online in 60 seconds
- •LoadUp: Starts at $89, averages $143 with additional items
- •1-800-GOT-JUNK: $150–$300+ for single appliance, requires in-person estimate with no upfront pricing
- •Best Buy haul-away: $199.99 (only available when buying a new appliance)
The cheapest professional option is Dropcurb at $79 — you move the dishwasher to the curb, and a local hauler picks it up the same day.
Need your old dishwasher gone today? Dropcurb picks it up from the curb for $79 — same-day, no estimates.
Get Instant Pricing →Where Can I Recycle an Old Dishwasher?
Dishwashers are highly recyclable — they contain stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and other metals worth money. Here are your recycling options:
- •Scrap metal yards: Most will accept dishwashers for free or pay you $5–$15 based on weight and metal content. Call ahead to confirm.
- •Municipal recycling centers: Many city transfer stations have a dedicated appliance recycling area. Some are free for residents, others charge $10–$25.
- •Retailer programs: Best Buy accepts small electronics for recycling at no charge, but large appliances require the $199.99 haul-away service.
- •Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Accepts working dishwashers as donations and will recycle non-working ones in some locations.
Can I Donate an Old Dishwasher?
If your dishwasher still works, donation is the best free option. Organizations that accept working dishwashers:
- •Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Accepts working appliances and offers free pickup in many areas
- •Salvation Army: Accepts working appliances at some locations — call first
- •Local appliance resellers: Some buy used working dishwashers for $20–$50
- •Facebook Marketplace / Craigslist: List it free for pickup — working dishwashers typically get claimed within 24–48 hours
No organization will accept a dishwasher that does not run, leaks, or has visible damage. For non-working units, recycling or junk removal is the path.
How to Prepare a Dishwasher for Disposal
Before any disposal method, you need to disconnect and prep the dishwasher.
Dishwasher Disconnection Steps
- 1
Turn off power
Switch off the circuit breaker for the dishwasher. Verify power is off by trying to start a cycle.
- 2
Shut off water supply
Close the hot water shutoff valve under the sink. It connects to the dishwasher via a braided hose or copper line.
- 3
Disconnect the water line
Place a towel under the connection. Unscrew the water supply line from the dishwasher inlet valve. Let residual water drain into the towel.
- 4
Disconnect the drain hose
Remove the drain hose from the garbage disposal or sink drain connection. Expect some water to come out.
- 5
Remove mounting brackets
Unscrew the brackets holding the dishwasher to the underside of the countertop. Carefully slide the unit out.
- 6
Move to curb or pickup area
Dishwashers weigh 60–80 lbs. Use a hand truck or dolly, or get a second person to help carry it to the curb.
Dishwasher at the curb? Book removal in 60 seconds — $79, same-day pickup.
Book Dishwasher Removal →Frequently asked questions
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