Wecycle makes clearing away your junk or unwanted debris quick, efficient, and convenient—on your schedule.
25 June, 2025
Dumping a broken fridge or an old washer can appear simple, just haul it on out to the curb, right? Wrong. Correctly disposing of large appliances and other bulk goods isn't convenient, it's about safety, the environment, and in a great many cases, the law.
Let's sort out how to dispose of Large Appliances responsibly, legally, and safely.
At WeCycle, we help make the process easy and stress-free. From old dishwashers to saggy sofas, we know how to clear the clutter without the hassle.
Improper disposal of large appliances and other heavy items can ravage the planet and even be illegal where you live. If you're unsure how to dispose of bulky items properly, the tips below will help you stay compliant and eco-friendly.
Dumping bulky items in alleys, parks, or empty lots is illegal in most U.S. cities.
So if you’re wondering how to dispose of large appliances, know that doing it the right way protects both your community and your wallet.
Before you can dispose of anything, it’s helpful to know what qualifies as a bulky item. In general, these are household goods that are too big to fit in a standard trash bin.
Common Bulky Items Include:
If you’re ever unsure, contact your local waste management office to verify. Not everything large is considered a bulky item (e.g., carpeting may be handled separately).
Still unsure? Reach out to your local waste authority or call WeCycle for help.
Many homeowners ask, how do you get rid of old appliances without causing legal or environmental problems? If you're wondering how you dispose of old appliances, these tested and proven steps will guide you to do it legally and safely.
Several retailers and manufacturers have take-back programs when you purchase a new appliance.
This is often the easiest and fastest option for large appliance disposal.
Most municipalities have bulky item pickup services - but often you need to schedule in advance.
Check your local city's website for "bulk trash pickup" days or collection schedules.
Some towns have free pickups once or twice a year and charge a small fee for others.
You might have to place items on the curb by a certain time or location.
Don't overlook this route - placing items on the curb without permission could result in a fine.
If your second hand appliance is still functioning, donating it is an excellent means of extending its life and putting a smile on someone's face.
Here's where you can donate it:
Habitat for Humanity ReStores
Salvation Army
Goodwill Industries
Local shelters or churches
Call first to make sure they accept appliances, and get your item clean and in good working order.
If you'd like to make a few bucks (or just get rid of it in a hurry), try selling it online:
Facebook Marketplace
Craigslist
OfferUp
Buy Nothing Groups (great for local give-aways)
Tip: If the appliance is "smart" (WiFi-enabled), don't forget to delete any personal data before donating it.
Even if your dead washer is useless, recycling may be a possibility and often the most environmentally sound.
You can also search for programs under the EPA's Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) Program - a national program to offer safe appliance handling.
Don’t forget: WeCycle partners with certified recycling facilities to make this process even easier for you.
Both have their pros and cons, and the better one for you will depend on your time needs, type of item, and city ordinance.
Either way, WeCycle has you covered. We offer both pickup and eco-friendly disposal services on your schedule.
Disposing of bulk items isn't just a matter of where you get rid of them, it's also about how to handle them safely.
These are typical errors that must be avoided:
❌ Don't dump in vacant lots, parks, or alleys – In most places, this is against the law
❌ Don't assume your regular trash service will collect it – They won't usually
❌ Don't leave it on the curb without pre-arranging pickup – You might be fined
❌ Don't smash it without being aware of its contents – Risk of harm or exposure to chemicals
Learn more: How to dispose of hot tub
Check if the store you bought the replacement from offers haul-away. If not, call WeCycle, your city waste department, or a local recycling center.
Only if you've scheduled a bulk item pickup with your local sanitation service. Spontaneous dumping will cost you a fine.
If you are unsure where to get rid of big things like old furniture, mattresses, or appliances, begin by calling your city's waste management department. Most cities offer:
Scheduled collections of bulky items (sometimes by request or on specified dates)
Drop-off locations at city-run transfer stations or recycling centers
Arrangements with independent junk removal companies for large or hazardous items
You can also hire firms such as WeCycle, which offer environmentally friendly pickup and disposal of large items, spare you time and possible fines.
Some non-profits like Habitat for Humanity or metal scrap collectors may offer free pickup. But for fast, guaranteed service, book with WeCycle.
Search your local waste management website or schedule a pickup with a junk removal service like WeCycle.
The disposal of large appliances doesn’t have to be a drag. With a little planning, you can dispose of your large items legally, safely, and even in an environmentally friendly manner.
Remember:
Let WeCycle Help You Do It the Right Way
Whether it’s a busted fridge, an old couch, or a broken stove — WeCycle makes clearing your space easy and stress-free.
