How to Dispose of a Washing Machine or Oven

Large kitchen appliances such as washing machines, tumble dryers, dishwashers, ovens and cookers are classed as waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). That means they need to be recycled properly, not left on a landing or in a bin store waiting for someone else to deal with them.

Why appliances need proper recycling

Appliances are mostly steel, copper and plastic, all of which can be recovered and reused. They also contain parts that should not end up in landfill, such as circuit boards, motors and wiring. Licensed facilities strip them down so the materials go back into use.

Before it is collected

• Disconnect it safely. Gas cookers must be disconnected by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Electric cookers that are hard-wired should be disconnected by an electrician.
• Drain the washing machine. Run the drain filter and leave the door open for a day so it is not full of water when we lift it.
• Clear a path. Measure doorways and stairwells if the appliance is upstairs or in a tight space.

Your options

Retailer take-back. Many shops will take your old appliance away when they deliver a new one, often for a small fee.

Council collection or recycling centre. Fine if you have a suitable vehicle and can lift it yourself.

A licensed waste carrier. We carry it out from wherever it is, including flats and communal stairwells, and take it for recycling.

What it costs

A washing machine or oven on its own fits easily in a Mini Load at £84, with labour, disposal and VAT included. If you have more than one appliance, or other rubbish as well, move up a load size and get it all cleared in one trip. Fridges and freezers are different, because they contain refrigerant gases, and are priced as a £45 special item.

Book a collection

Pick your load in our instant calculator, choose a date, and we will take care of the rest.