Free Washing Machine Collection and Removal
New machine arrived, or the old one finally gave up? Washing machines are full of steel and copper, so local scrap collectors will usually take them away for free, working or not. Tell us what you’ve got, and a licensed collector near you will pick it up.
Four ways to get rid of a washing machine
Tap a programme to compare.
Retailer take-back
- When
- Only when you buy a new one
- Where
- Often in-store or through a take-back scheme, so home collection isn’t always included
- Good for
- Swapping old for new in one go
Council bulky waste collection
- Cost
- Usually a fee, which varies by council
- Wait
- Often days or weeks for a slot
- Good for
- Mixed bulky items like sofas and mattresses
Take it to the tip yourself
- Lifting
- A heavy, awkward lift into a car or van
- Rules
- Many tips need a booking, and some need a van permit
- Good for
- If you have a van and a strong helper
Free Scrap4Free collection
- Cost
- Usually free
- Effort
- A local collector picks it up from your home
- Good for
- Working or broken machines, any time
What’s inside a washing machine
Underneath the white panels, there’s plenty of metal worth recycling.
Steel drum
Often stainless steel, the biggest bit of metal inside.
Motor
Copper windings that spin the drum.
Steel cabinet
The outer frame and panels.
Hidden weights
Heavy concrete or cast-iron blocks that keep it steady, which is why it’s so hard to lift.
Getting it ready for collection
Unplug it
Switch it off at the wall and unplug it.
Turn off the water and disconnect the hoses
Close the water valves first. If you’re not comfortable with the plumbing, ask a plumber.
Drain any water
Empty what’s left in the drum and the filter, so nothing leaks in the van.
Leave it somewhere easy to reach
A driveway or front garden is ideal. If it’s still in the kitchen, say so on the form.
Add other appliances to the collection
Getting rid of an old boiler too? See free boiler removal.
Landlords and letting agents
Clearing appliances between tenants? Request collections for washing machines, cookers and other metal items from your properties.
Frequently asked questions
Is washing machine collection really free?
Yes, in most cases. Washing machines contain steel, copper and other metals, so local scrap collectors will usually take them for free. A collector covering your postcode picks it up from your home.
Do you take broken washing machines?
Yes. It doesn’t matter if it works or not. Broken, old or leaking washing machines can all be collected.
Won’t the shop take my old one away?
When you buy a new washing machine, the retailer has to offer a free way to take your old one back, but that might be in-store or through a scheme rather than from your home. If you’ve bought elsewhere, or just want it gone, a local collector can take it.
How do I get my washing machine ready?
Unplug it, turn off the water supply and disconnect the hoses, then drain any water left in the drum and filter. If you’re not comfortable disconnecting the plumbing, ask a plumber.
Why is my washing machine so heavy?
Most washing machines have heavy concrete or cast-iron weights inside to keep the drum steady when it spins. That’s why it’s easier to let a collector with a van take it away.
Do you take tumble dryers and dishwashers too?
Yes. Tumble dryers, washer dryers, dishwashers and cookers can all be collected, usually for free. A small charge may apply to fridges and freezers.
Do I need to be home?
Not always. If you leave the washing machine on your driveway or front garden, many collectors can pick it up without you being in. Say so on the request form.
Are the collectors licensed?
Collectors on Scrap4Free must hold a valid waste carrier registration, which we check against the public register. Scrap metal collectors also need a licence from their local council, and by law scrap metal can’t be paid for in cash in England, Wales or Scotland.
Old washing machine to get rid of?
Tell us what you need collected. It takes less than 2 minutes.
Request a Collection