An old garbage disposal is mostly metal with a motor inside, so the best move is to recycle it as scrap metal or e-waste, not toss it in the trash. If it still works, you can sell or donate it. If it is dead, the metal still has value at a scrap yard.
First, get it safely disconnected, then pick the right path below.
Disconnect It Safely First
Always cut the power at the breaker before touching a disposal. If you are not comfortable unhooking it from the sink drain and wiring, have a plumber or handy friend remove it. Never work on it while it is still connected to power.
If It Still Works: Sell or Donate It
- Sell it on Facebook Marketplace. Working name-brand units like InSinkErator sell cheap but quickly to DIYers and landlords.
- Donate it to a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, which takes working home fixtures and appliances and resells them.
If It Is Dead: Recycle the Metal
A broken disposal is not curbside trash. It has a motor, copper wiring, and a steel or aluminum housing that are all recyclable.
- Scrap metal yard. They will take it for the metal inside, and the motor has real scrap value.
- E-waste or appliance recycling. Many city events and recycling centers accept small appliances like this.
This is the same idea as recycling other small motors and old computer parts rather than landfilling them.
Replacing It?
If a plumber is installing your new disposal, ask them to haul the old one away, since many will take it for scrap. While you are at it, our kitchen decluttering guide and declutter and recycle guide can help with the rest of the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you recycle a garbage disposal?
Yes. It is mostly metal with a motor, so a scrap yard or appliance recycler will take it. Do not put it in the regular trash.
Is an old garbage disposal worth anything?
A working one sells cheaply but fast to DIYers and landlords. A dead one still has scrap value for the motor and metal housing.
How do I remove an old garbage disposal?
Cut the power at the breaker first, then disconnect it from the drain and wiring. If you are unsure, have a plumber remove it. Never work on it with the power on.
Where can I donate a garbage disposal?
A Habitat for Humanity ReStore takes working units and resells them to fund home building. Make sure it works before donating.