If you have an old, broken, or unwanted washing machine taking up space, selling it for scrap can be a practical way to clear your home while allowing valuable materials to be recycled. Washing machines are considered white goods and contain recoverable materials such as steel, copper, aluminium, and plastics.
1. Sell Your Washing Machine to a Scrap Metal Recycler
A local scrap metal recycler is one of the most common places to take an unwanted washing machine. Many recycling businesses accept washing machines and other white goods from households and businesses.
Some scrap recyclers purchase white goods based on their weight and the type of recoverable metal. For example, recycling facilities may process washing machines for steel, copper, aluminium, and other materials.
Before visiting a scrap yard, contact the business and ask:
- Do you accept washing machines?
- Do you buy washing machines for scrap?
- What is the current scrap rate?
- Do you offer pickup?
- Is there a minimum quantity?
- Do I need to bring identification or other documentation?
2. Find a Local White Goods Recycling Service
Specialist white goods recyclers can collect and process large household appliances, including washing machines, dryers, dishwashers and other appliances.
Recycling services may offer either drop-off or pickup, depending on your location and the quantity of material. Recycling Near You, for example, lists recycling facilities that accept white goods and provides location-specific information.
For a heavy washing machine, a pickup service can be particularly convenient because you may not have a suitable vehicle to transport it.
3. Contact a Scrap Metal Yard
Traditional scrap metal yards may also accept washing machines. Some facilities purchase different types of scrap metal and separate the appliances into recyclable materials.
For example, some Australian scrap businesses specifically list washing machines and white goods among the materials they accept.
The amount you receive can depend on factors such as:
- Weight of the appliance
- Current scrap metal prices
- Amount and type of recoverable metal
- Appliance condition
- Local recycling rates
- Transportation or pickup costs
Because scrap prices change, it’s a good idea to request a current quote before transporting the appliance.
4. Consider Selling It for Reuse Instead
Not every unwanted washing machine should immediately go to scrap.
If the washing machine is still working, selling it as a used appliance may be an alternative to scrapping it. Reuse and refurbishment can keep an appliance in service for longer and preserve more of its value.
You could advertise a working appliance through:
- Local classified websites
- Community marketplaces
- Second-hand appliance dealers
- Local reuse centres
- Social media marketplace groups
If the washing machine is completely broken or uneconomical to repair, scrap recycling may make more sense.
5. Ask About Washing Machine Pickup
Washing machines are heavy and difficult to transport. Some scrap metal businesses offer collection services, although availability can depend on location, quantity, and distance.
When calling a recycler, ask whether they provide free scrap washing machine pickup or whether a collection fee applies.
For businesses with several old appliances, arranging a scheduled collection can be more convenient than transporting each appliance individually.
What Happens to a Washing Machine After You Sell It for Scrap?
Once a washing machine reaches a suitable recycling facility, it can be dismantled and processed to recover useful materials.
Typical recycling processes may involve:
- Receiving the washing machine
- Inspecting and sorting the appliance
- Removing components and potentially hazardous materials
- Separating metals and other materials
- Crushing or shredding suitable components
- Recovering steel, copper, plastics and other materials
- Sending recovered materials for further processing
Recycling facilities can recover significant quantities of materials from white goods rather than sending the entire appliance to landfill.
How to Get the Best Price for Your Scrap Washing Machine
Before selling your appliance, consider these simple steps:
Compare Local Scrap Buyers
Call several scrap metal recyclers and ask for their current rates. Prices can vary between businesses.
Ask About Pickup
If transportation is difficult, compare the price offered with any pickup or transportation charges.
Don’t Assume All Scrap Is Valued the Same
A washing machine is primarily a ferrous-metal item, but it can contain other recoverable materials. The recycler will determine how it is classified and processed.
Check Whether the Machine Is Still Working
If it works properly, compare the potential second-hand selling price with the scrap value before making a decision.
Keep the Appliance Intact
Unless the recycler specifically asks you to dismantle it, it is generally better to ask them how they want the appliance prepared for recycling.