If you have an old lawn mower taking up space in your shed, you might be wondering how to recycle old lawn mower equipment properly. Recycling an old lawn mower responsibly involves preparing it by removing fluids and finding a proper facility.
It’s not as simple as leaving it at the curb. These machines contain hazardous materials that can harm the environment.
This guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparation to drop-off. You’ll learn the safest methods and find the best local options.
How To Recycle Old Lawn Mower
Recycling a lawn mower is a multi-step process that requires a bit of preparation. You cannot simply take the whole unit to a standard recycling center in most cases. The key is understanding what your mower is made of and how to seperate those materials.
Most mowers consist of metal (steel and aluminum), plastic, rubber, and fluids. The fluids are the primary concern, as they are considered hazardous waste. Following the correct steps ensures you’re disposing of your mower safely and legally.
Why You Should Not Trash Your Old Lawn Mower
Throwing your mower in the regular trash is harmful and often illegal. The environmental impact is significant. Engine oil, gasoline, and other chemicals can leak into soil and groundwater.
This pollution affects local wildlife and water supplies. Landfills are not designed to handle these contaminants. Proper recycling recovers valuable metals and keeps toxins out of the ecosystem.
Many areas have strict regulations against disposing of engines with fluids. You could face fines for improper disposal. Recycling is the only responsible choice.
Preparing Your Lawn Mower For Recycling
Preparation is the most important part of the recycling journey. Taking the time to do this correctly makes the rest of the process smooth and safe. Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves and eyewear.
Gather your supplies before you start. You will need a drain pan, funnels, old rags, a wrench set, and sealed containers for fluids. Let the engine cool completely if it was recently used.
Step 1: Drain All Fluids
The first and most critical task is removing all liquids. This includes gasoline, engine oil, and sometimes hydraulic fluid or coolant. Start with the gasoline.
Siphon or drain the gas from the tank into an approved gasoline container. You can often use this fuel in another engine or take it to a hazardous waste facility. Never pour gasoline on the ground or down a drain.
Next, drain the engine oil. Place your drain pan beneath the oil drain plug. Remove the plug and let the oil flow out completely. Replace the plug once empty. Pour the used oil into a sealed, leak-proof container.
Step 2: Remove the Battery
If your mower has a battery, you must remove it. This is true for electric start gas mowers and all cordless electric models. Batteries are recycled separately.
Disconnect the terminals, usually starting with the negative (black) cable. Carefully lift the battery out. Take it to an auto parts store or a battery retailer; they almost always accept old batteries for recycling at no charge.
Step 3: Detach Non-Metal Components
While not always required, removing large plastic parts, the rubber drive belt, and the wheels can make the metal recycling easier. Some centers prefer just the metal engine block and deck.
Use basic tools to detach the plastic housing, the grass bag, and the rubber tires. Check with your local recycler to see what they accept. The plastic and rubber may need to go to a different specialized facility.
Finding A Recycling Facility Or Program
Once your mower is prepared, you need to find the right place to take it. Several types of facilities accept old lawn mowers. Your best option will depend on your location and the mower’s condition.
Do not assume your local curbside recycling will take it. You will almost always need to make a special trip. A quick online search is the best place to start.
Local Scrap Metal Yards
Scrap yards are a common destination for old mower engines and decks. They pay you by the pound for the metal. Call ahead to confirm they accept small engines and ask about their preparation requirements.
Some yards may require you to remove all non-metal parts completely. Others might take the whole unit if the fluids are drained. Be sure to bring identification, as many yards record transactions for security.
Municipal Hazardous Waste and Bulk Waste Programs
Many city or county waste management departments host hazardous waste collection days. These events are perfect for disposing of your drained mower and the containers of old fluid.
Some municipalities also have permanent drop-off locations. Others offer scheduled bulk waste pickups where they will collect large items like mowers. Check your local government’s website for details and schedules.
Retailer Take-Back Programs
Certain retailers offer recycling programs, especially around Earth Day or during spring promotions. Large home improvement stores or lawn equipment dealers may host collection events.
Some states have laws requiring retailers to take back old appliances. It’s worth calling local dealerships to ask if they have an engine recycling program. They might accept it for a small fee.
Alternative Options To Straight Recycling
If your mower still has some life in it, recycling isn’t your only option. Consider these alternatives first. They extend the product’s life and reduce waste even further.
Sell or Donate a Working Mower
A mower that still runs can be valuable to someone else. You can sell it online through community marketplaces. Be honest about its condition and age in your listing.
Consider donating it to a community garden, a local charity, or a vocational school. Schools with small engine repair programs often welcome old equipment for students to practice on. This gives the mower a second purpose.
Parting Out the Mower
If the mower doesn’t run, individual parts might. Many people look for specific components to repair their own machines. You can sell the wheels, blade, carburetor, or starter assembly online.
This option requires more time and effort but can yield some cash. Once you’ve sold the usable parts, the remaining metal frame is easier to recycle. It’s a great way to maximize reuse.
Repurpose the Metal Components
For the creatively inclined, old mower parts can be repurposed. The metal deck can become a unique yard sculpture or a shallow garden planter. The engine block, once cleaned, can be used as a heavy-duty paperweight or a base for a table.
This is not recycling in the traditional sense, but it keeps the material out of the waste stream. It’s a fun project if you have the time and tools.
Special Considerations For Different Mower Types
Not all lawn mowers are the same. The recycling process can vary slightly depending on the type of mower you have. Here’s what you need to know for each common kind.
Recycling a Gas-Powered Lawn Mower
Gas mowers are the most common and require the most preparation. Follow the fluid-draining steps outlined above meticulously. The four-stroke engine contains more oil than a two-stroke, so be prepared with a large enough container.
For two-stroke engines that use a gas-oil mixture, you still need to drain the fuel tank. The mixed fuel is especially hazardous and must be handled with care. The rest of the recycling process is the same as for a four-stroke model.
Recycling an Electric Lawn Mower
Corded and cordless electric mowers are simpler to prepare. There is no gasoline or engine oil to drain. For cordless models, remove the battery pack and recycle it separately at a battery drop-off point.
The main body of an electric mower contains an electric motor, wiring, and metal/plastic housing. You may need to take it to an e-waste recycling facility, as they handle electronic components. Call your local e-waste recycler to check.
Recycling a Riding Lawn Mower
Riding mowers follow the same principles but on a larger scale. They contain more fluids, including potentially hydraulic oil and coolant. Drain each fluid type into its own labeled container.
Due to their size and weight, you will likely need a truck or trailer to transport it. Some scrap yards may offer pick-up services for large, heavy items like riding mowers. Be sure to ask when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
You probably still have some questions about the process. Here are answers to some of the most common queries people have when figuring out how to recycle there old lawn mower.
Is It Free to Recycle a Lawn Mower?
It depends on the facility. Scrap metal yards will often pay you a small amount for the metal weight. Municipal hazardous waste events are typically free for residents.
Private recycling centers or junk removal services may charge a fee. Always call ahead to ask about costs. Some retailers offer free take-back during specific promotions.
What Happens to the Mower After I Recycle It?
At a scrap yard, the mower is crushed and shredded. Powerful magnets separate ferrous metals (like steel) from non-ferrous metals (like aluminum). These metals are then melted down and used to manufacture new products.
Plastics may be processed separately if they were not removed. The recycling process effectively turns your old mower into raw material for future industry use, which is a great outcome.
Can I Put My Old Lawn Mower at the Curb?
You should never place an unprepared mower at the curb for regular trash collection. However, many municipal bulk waste programs will collect it if you schedule a pickup.
You must still drain all fluids according to your city’s rules. Check with your waste hauler for their specific bulk item policies and scheduling procedures. They will tell you exactly what you need to do.
How Do I Find a Recycling Center Near Me?
The best method is to search online for “scrap metal yard near me” or “hazardous waste disposal [Your City Name].” Your city or county’s official government website will have the most reliable information.
You can also use Earth911’s recycling search tool. Enter “lawn mower” or “small engine” and your zip code to find local options. A few phone calls can confirm their requirements.
What If My Mower Is Rusty and Broken?
A rusty, broken mower is actually a prime candidate for metal recycling. The preparation steps are the same—drain all fluids. The scrap metal value is based purely on weight, not condition.
As long as the hazardous fluids are removed, a scrap yard will gladly accept it. In fact, it’s even more important to recycle a mower that is no longer usefull to prevent it from leaking in a landfill.
Recycling your old lawn mower is a straightforward process when you know the steps. It all starts with safetly preparing the machine by removing gasoline, oil, and the battery. Then, you can find a local scrap yard, hazardous waste facility, or retailer program to take it.
By taking the time to do this, you’re protecting your local environment and conserving valuable resources. You’re also ensuring you comply with local waste laws. With this guide, you have all the information you need to handle the task responsibly and efficiently.