Quick answer: Drain fuel and oil, remove the battery/blade, then use one of these outlets: municipal transfer station/HHW event, scrap-metal recycler, retailer take-back/trade-in, donation/resale, curbside bulk pickup (if allowed), or a professional junk removal service that handles the heavy lifting and recycling.
Prep your mower (safe & legal)
- Drain fuel into an approved container.
- Drain used oil and keep it sealed for HHW drop-off.
- Remove the battery (cordless/electric). Tape terminals.
- Remove and wrap the blade (gloves on).
- Clean the deck so recyclers can see metal vs plastic.
Fluids & batteries: Take gas/oil/filters to HHW or auto-parts programs; recycle batteries via e-waste channels or book professional e-waste removal if you’d rather not handle it.
Where to take an old lawn mower
1) City transfer station or HHW event
Most accept prepped mowers (no fuel/oil/battery). HHW events take fluids separately. Low cost, eco-friendly.
2) Scrap-metal recycler / scrapyard
Mowers are mostly steel/aluminum. Some yards want fluids/battery removed first; call ahead. Sometimes you’ll get a small payout.
3) Retailer take-back or trade-in (seasonal)
Home-improvement stores occasionally offer take-back or discounts when you upgrade. Availability varies.
4) Donation or resale
If it’s safe and working, donate to community groups or sell locally to extend its life.
5) Curbside bulk pickup (where allowed)
Rules differ: most require no fluids/battery and blade removed. Fees may apply.
6) Full-service hauling
If it’s heavy, leaking, or you’re short on time, book junk removal—pickup crews drain safely, separate metals, and route batteries/e-waste correctly.
Local help (King County area)
Live nearby? Our Kent team serves the whole area—Renton—with fast pickup for mowers, parts, and batteries.
FAQs
Can I throw a mower in the trash?
Only where bulk pickup allows it—and after removing fuel, oil, and batteries. Always check city rules.
Do scrap yards take mowers?
Usually, yes—as mixed metal once fluids and batteries are removed. Call to confirm prep requirements.
How do I dispose of old gas and used oil?
Take them to HHW or participating auto-parts stores in sealed, labeled containers—never down drains.
Are electric mowers e-waste?
The battery is e-waste. The frame/deck are typically recyclable metal/plastic depending on the facility.
