How to Dispose of a Washing Machine or Tumble Dryer

If your washing machine has packed up or your tumble dryer has stopped drying properly, you might be wondering what to do with the old one. Figuring out how to dispose of a washing machine or how to dispose of a tumble dryer takes a bit of planning because they’re bulky, heavy and count as electrical waste.

Let’s break down how you can get rid of your washing machine and tumble dryer safely, legally and maybe even make a bit of money back.

Why Washing Machines & Tumble Dryers Are Special Waste

Washing machines and tumble dryers are classed as bulky WEEE waste. WEEE stands for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, which means these appliances have to be treated and recycled properly. 

Inside these appliances, you’ll find metal drums, motors, wires, plastics, heating elements and sometimes small traces of oil. Throwing them away with household rubbish or into an ordinary skip can land you with a fine and cause environmental damage.

Council Bulky Waste Collection

Most councils in the UK offer a bulky waste collection service for items like washing machines and tumble dryers. The cost varies depending on where you live, but usually ranges from £15 to £50 per item.

Here’s how it normally works:

1. Book a collection through the council’s website or phone line.
2. Place the machine outside your home by the agreed time.
3. Keep in mind, councils won’t disconnect appliances or carry them out of your property.
4. Check your local council’s website because some limit how many bulky items you can book at once.

Retailer Take-Back Schemes

If you’re buying a new machine, the simplest way to deal with the old one is to let the retailer collect it. Most large appliance stores offer a take-back service for a small extra charge, usually around £20 to £30.

This is often the easiest choice because the delivery team can:

• Remove the old appliance when delivering the new one.

• Take it away for proper recycling.

• Make sure to specify you need this service upon booking, as it’s not always included automatically.

Selling or Donating

If your machine still works, it might be worth selling it or giving it away. Many people look for second-hand appliances to save money, especially landlords or those setting up a home on a budget.

To sell or donate:

1. List the item on sites like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree or eBay.
2. Be honest about its condition.
3. Clean it thoroughly and include measurements.
4. Check if the machine has digital features that should be reset to remove personal data.

Charities like the British Heart Foundation sometimes accept working appliances like washing machines, though they’ll check the age and condition first.

Licensed Scrap Collectors

A broken washing machine or tumble dryer still has value because of the metal and components inside. Licensed scrap collectors often collect old appliances for free, then take them to an authorised treatment facility.

Always check that your collector is licensed with the Environment Agency. If someone fly-tips your machine, you could be held responsible and face fines.

Can You Put Washing Machines & Tumble Dryers in a Skip?

A lot of people wonder if hiring a skip is the answer. The short answer is no. Skips can’t take washing machines or tumble dryers because they’re WEEE waste. Skip companies face strict rules about how electrical goods are treated, and putting one in your skip without permission could lead to extra charges or refusal of collection.

If you’re hiring a skip for a house clearance or renovation, talk to your skip provider about separate arrangements for electrical items. Some companies, like us at ProSkip, can help organise a WEEE collection alongside your skip hire.

Preparing Your Appliance

Before collection, make sure to:

• Disconnect from power and water supplies.

• Drain any leftover water.

• Tape doors shut to avoid them swinging open.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to dispose of a washing machine or how to dispose of a tumble dryer properly keeps you on the right side of the law and helps the environment. Whether you use council services, retailers, scrap collectors or licensed waste companies, it pays to plan ahead and check the rules in your local area.
If in doubt, ProSkip is always here to help you handle bulky waste safely and responsibly – just give us a call.