Getting rid of an old lawn mower can feel like a chore. These machines, built for durability, often outstay their welcome, taking up valuable space in your garage or shed long after they’ve ceased to be useful. Whether your mower has finally given up the ghost, you’ve upgraded to a newer model, or you’re simply downsizing, understanding the disposal options available to you is crucial. This guide will walk you through various methods for responsibly and efficiently getting rid of your unwanted lawn mower, ensuring you find the best solution for your specific circumstances.
Understanding Your Lawn Mower Disposal Options
Before you simply haul your mower to the curb, it’s important to consider the environmental impact and potential value of your old machine. Many components of a lawn mower, including the metal frame, engine parts, and even some plastic components, can be recycled. Properly disposing of or recycling your mower is not only environmentally responsible but can also contribute to resource conservation.
Consider these key factors when deciding how to proceed: the mower’s condition, your time constraints, your budget, and your commitment to environmentally sound practices. Each of the following options offers a different balance of these factors.
Selling Your Lawn Mower
If your lawn mower is still in working condition or requires only minor repairs, selling it is an excellent way to recoup some of your initial investment and prevent it from ending up in a landfill. Several online and offline avenues are available for selling used lawn equipment.
Online Marketplaces
Platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are popular choices for selling used items locally and nationally. These platforms offer broad reach and allow you to set your own price. Be sure to take clear, well-lit photos of your mower and write a detailed description that accurately reflects its condition, including any known issues.
Transparency is key when selling online. Highlight both the good and bad aspects of your mower to avoid disputes later on. It’s also wise to research similar models to determine a fair and competitive asking price.
When meeting with potential buyers, prioritize safety. Choose a public location for the exchange, or if meeting at your home, ensure someone else is present. Accept cash payments or use a secure online payment platform to avoid scams.
Local Classified Ads
Don’t underestimate the power of local classified ads, both online and in print. Community newspapers and online bulletin boards often attract buyers actively seeking used lawn equipment in your area. These avenues can be particularly effective for reaching buyers who prefer to shop locally and avoid the complexities of online marketplaces.
Be sure to include a clear and concise description of your mower, its condition, your asking price, and your contact information. A photo can significantly increase the appeal of your ad.
Repair and Sell
If your lawn mower needs some TLC, consider fixing it up before selling. Small repairs like replacing the spark plug, air filter, or pull cord can significantly increase its value and attract more buyers.
However, be realistic about the cost of repairs. If the repairs are extensive and expensive, it may be more cost-effective to sell the mower “as is” or explore other disposal options.
Donating Your Lawn Mower
Donating your lawn mower is a noble way to give back to your community and help those in need. Several organizations accept donations of used lawn equipment, providing valuable resources to individuals and groups who may not otherwise be able to afford them.
Charitable Organizations
Local charities, non-profit organizations, and community centers often accept donations of used lawn mowers. These organizations may use the mowers for their own landscaping needs or provide them to low-income families or individuals.
Contact local charities in your area to inquire about their donation policies and requirements. Some organizations may only accept mowers in working condition, while others may be willing to accept mowers that need minor repairs.
Vocational Schools and Training Programs
Vocational schools and training programs that focus on small engine repair may be interested in receiving your old lawn mower as a donation. These programs use donated equipment for hands-on training, providing students with valuable experience in diagnosing and repairing lawn mowers and other small engines.
Contact local vocational schools or community colleges to inquire about their donation programs. They will likely be happy to take your mower off your hands and put it to good use.
Recycling Your Lawn Mower
Recycling your lawn mower is the most environmentally responsible way to dispose of it. Most lawn mowers are made of recyclable materials, including steel, aluminum, and plastic. Recycling these materials conserves natural resources, reduces energy consumption, and minimizes landfill waste.
Metal Recycling Centers
Metal recycling centers are the most common and efficient way to recycle your lawn mower. These centers accept a wide range of metal items, including lawn mowers, and pay you for the scrap metal.
Before taking your mower to a metal recycling center, drain all fluids, including gasoline and oil. These fluids are hazardous and can contaminate the recycling process. Contact the recycling center to inquire about their specific requirements for preparing lawn mowers for recycling.
Local Recycling Programs
Many municipalities offer recycling programs that accept lawn mowers and other bulky items. Contact your local government or waste management company to inquire about recycling options in your area.
Some municipalities may offer curbside pickup for bulky items, while others may require you to transport the mower to a designated recycling center. Be sure to follow the specific instructions provided by your local recycling program to ensure proper disposal.
Retailer Take-Back Programs
Some retailers that sell lawn mowers offer take-back programs, where they accept old mowers for recycling when you purchase a new one. These programs are a convenient way to dispose of your old mower and ensure it is recycled responsibly.
Check with retailers in your area to see if they offer take-back programs. These programs may have specific requirements, such as requiring you to purchase a new mower from them.
Disposing of Your Lawn Mower as Trash
Disposing of your lawn mower as trash should be considered a last resort, as it is the least environmentally friendly option. However, if other options are not available or feasible, you may need to dispose of your mower in this way.
Municipal Waste Collection
Contact your local waste management company to inquire about their policies for disposing of large items like lawn mowers. Some companies may offer curbside pickup for bulky items, while others may require you to transport the mower to a designated landfill.
Be sure to follow the specific instructions provided by your waste management company to ensure proper disposal. You may need to schedule a special pickup or pay an additional fee.
Landfills
If your local waste management company does not offer curbside pickup for bulky items, you may need to transport the mower to a landfill yourself. Contact the landfill to inquire about their disposal fees and requirements.
Be prepared to show identification and proof of residency. You may also need to unload the mower yourself.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower for Disposal
Regardless of the disposal method you choose, it’s important to properly prepare your lawn mower before getting rid of it. This involves draining all fluids, disconnecting the spark plug, and cleaning the mower.
Draining Fluids
Before selling, donating, recycling, or disposing of your lawn mower, it’s essential to drain all fluids, including gasoline and oil. These fluids are hazardous and can contaminate the environment.
To drain the gasoline, carefully siphon it into a container approved for storing gasoline. To drain the oil, remove the drain plug and allow the oil to flow into a container. Dispose of the used gasoline and oil responsibly at a designated hazardous waste collection site or auto parts store.
Disconnecting the Spark Plug
Disconnecting the spark plug is a safety precaution that prevents the mower from accidentally starting during transport or disposal. Simply remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
Cleaning the Mower
Cleaning the mower before disposal makes it more appealing to potential buyers, donation recipients, or recycling centers. Remove any grass clippings, dirt, or debris from the mower deck and engine. You can use a brush, scraper, or hose to clean the mower.
Safety Precautions
Working with lawn mowers can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed. Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and closed-toe shoes when working with lawn mowers.
Never work on a lawn mower while it is running. Disconnect the spark plug before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Be careful when handling gasoline and oil. These fluids are flammable and can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid getting these fluids on your skin or clothing.
Lift with your legs, not your back, when moving a lawn mower. Get help if the mower is too heavy to lift safely.
Special Considerations for Riding Lawn Mowers
Riding lawn mowers are larger and more complex than push mowers, requiring special considerations for disposal.
Size and Weight
Riding lawn mowers are significantly larger and heavier than push mowers, making them more difficult to transport and dispose of. You may need to rent a trailer or hire a professional hauling service to transport a riding lawn mower.
Batteries
Riding lawn mowers typically have lead-acid batteries, which require special disposal. These batteries contain hazardous materials and should not be disposed of in the trash. Take the battery to a designated battery recycling center or auto parts store.
Complexity of Disassembly
Disassembling a riding lawn mower for recycling can be more complex than disassembling a push mower. It may require specialized tools and knowledge. If you are not comfortable disassembling the mower yourself, consider hiring a professional to do it for you.
Cost Considerations
The cost of disposing of a lawn mower can vary depending on the disposal method you choose.
Selling your mower can generate income, offsetting the cost of disposal. Donating your mower is typically free.
Recycling your mower may involve a small fee, depending on the recycling center. Disposing of your mower as trash may involve a fee for curbside pickup or landfill disposal.
Finding Local Resources
Finding local resources for lawn mower disposal is essential for making the process as easy and efficient as possible.
Online Directories
Use online directories to find local metal recycling centers, charities, waste management companies, and retailers that offer take-back programs.
Local Government Websites
Your local government website is a valuable resource for finding information about recycling programs, waste disposal policies, and hazardous waste collection sites.
Community Bulletin Boards
Check community bulletin boards, both online and in print, for local businesses and organizations that may accept lawn mower donations or offer disposal services.
Finding the right way to dispose of your lawn mower depends on its condition and your priorities. Whether you choose to sell, donate, recycle, or as a last resort, dispose of it as trash, understanding your options and taking the necessary precautions will ensure a responsible and efficient outcome. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the process and reclaim your garage or shed space.
What are my options for getting rid of a working lawn mower?
If your lawn mower is still in good working condition, selling it is an excellent option to recoup some of its value and prevent unnecessary waste. Consider online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or local classified ad websites. Be sure to accurately describe the mower’s condition, including any known issues, and set a fair price based on its age, model, and condition. Provide clear photos and be prepared to answer questions from potential buyers.
Another option is to donate your working lawn mower to a charitable organization. Many organizations, such as Goodwill or Habitat for Humanity ReStore, accept donations of working appliances and equipment. This not only helps someone in need but also provides you with a tax deduction. Before donating, contact the organization to confirm they accept lawn mowers and inquire about any specific requirements or restrictions they may have.
How do I dispose of a non-working lawn mower?
Disposing of a non-working lawn mower requires careful consideration due to the presence of hazardous materials like gasoline and oil. The first step is to properly drain all fluids from the mower. Take these fluids to a local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal facility for safe and responsible disposal. Do not simply pour them down the drain or onto the ground, as this can contaminate the environment.
Once the fluids are removed, you have several options for disposal. Check with your local waste management company to see if they offer bulky waste pickup or appliance recycling programs. Some scrap metal recycling facilities also accept lawn mowers, often paying a small amount for the metal. As a last resort, you can take the mower to a landfill, but this should be avoided if possible due to the environmental impact.
Can I recycle my lawn mower?
Yes, recycling your lawn mower is a responsible and environmentally friendly option. Most lawn mowers are made primarily of metal, which is highly recyclable. The metal can be melted down and reused to create new products, reducing the need for virgin materials and conserving natural resources. Before recycling, be sure to remove any plastic components and drain all fluids from the mower.
Contact your local recycling center or scrap metal recycling facility to inquire about their lawn mower recycling program. Some facilities may require you to drop off the mower, while others may offer pickup services for a fee. When recycling, it’s important to follow the facility’s specific instructions to ensure the process is carried out safely and effectively. This helps to minimize environmental impact and maximize resource recovery.
What is involved in removing the gasoline from my lawn mower?
Removing gasoline from your lawn mower is a crucial step before disposal or recycling, as it is a flammable and hazardous substance. The safest way to remove gasoline is to use a siphon pump designed for this purpose. Place one end of the siphon hose into the gas tank and the other end into an approved gasoline container. Pump the siphon until the gasoline flows freely into the container.
Alternatively, if you don’t have a siphon pump, you can carefully tip the lawn mower over a suitable container to drain the gasoline. Exercise extreme caution to prevent spills and avoid any sources of ignition. Once the gasoline is removed, store it in a tightly sealed, approved container and label it clearly. Take the gasoline to a local hazardous waste disposal facility or recycling center for proper disposal.
How do I remove the oil from my lawn mower?
Removing the oil from your lawn mower is essential for safe disposal and recycling. Locate the oil drain plug on the engine, usually at the bottom. Place a drain pan or container underneath the plug to catch the oil. Unscrew the drain plug with a wrench and allow the oil to drain completely into the container. Be careful, as the oil may be hot, especially if the engine has recently been running.
Once the oil is drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely. Wipe up any spills with absorbent rags or paper towels. Store the used oil in a sealed container and label it clearly. Take the used oil to a local auto parts store, recycling center, or hazardous waste disposal facility for proper disposal. Many auto parts stores offer free oil recycling programs.
Are there any local programs that will pick up my old lawn mower?
Many local communities and municipalities offer programs for bulky waste pickup, which may include lawn mowers. Contact your local waste management company or check your city’s or county’s website to see if they offer this service. They may have specific guidelines for preparing the lawn mower for pickup, such as removing fluids or separating certain components. Some programs may be free, while others may charge a fee.
Additionally, some non-profit organizations or community groups may offer appliance recycling or pickup services. Check with local charities or environmental organizations to see if they have any programs that could help you dispose of your old lawn mower. These programs can be a convenient and environmentally responsible way to get rid of your unwanted appliance.
What are the potential costs associated with getting rid of a lawn mower?
The cost of getting rid of a lawn mower can vary depending on the disposal method you choose. If you are able to sell or donate your lawn mower, you may not incur any costs. However, if you need to pay for disposal, the costs can include fees for bulky waste pickup, appliance recycling, or landfill disposal. These fees can range from a few dollars to several tens of dollars, depending on your location and the specific program.
Additionally, you may incur costs for transporting the lawn mower to a disposal facility or recycling center. If you do not have a suitable vehicle, you may need to rent a truck or hire a hauling service. You may also need to purchase supplies, such as containers for draining fluids or protective gear. Before choosing a disposal method, it’s wise to compare the costs associated with each option to find the most cost-effective solution.