Figuring out how to dispose of an old toilet safely and legally can feel like a headache. In today’s eco-conscious world, tossing porcelain into a landfill is bad news; it pollutes the environment and takes up massive amounts of space. Unfortunately, millions of commodes still end up there every year.
There are cleaner, smarter alternatives. We will walk you through how to recycle your old toilet, how to break it down for easier transport, and suggest greener options for disposal.
Key Takeaways
- Donate: Give the toilet to charities like Habitat for Humanity ReStore if it is in good working condition.
- Curbside pickup: Disassemble the toilet and dispose of it through bulk waste collection, following local guidelines.
- Recycle: Take the porcelain to a local recycling center where it can be crushed and reused for road base or concrete.
- Repurpose: Turn the old bowl into a quirky garden planter or bird bath to keep it out of the trash.
Can I Put a Toilet in My Garbage?
You should check with your local municipality before dragging your old toilet to the curb. In most areas, you cannot simply toss a whole toilet into a standard trash bin. There are usually strict restrictions on how the fixture is disassembled.
Most rules require the seat and tank lid to be removed, along with the bolts. You will also need to verify specific bulk collection dates to ensure you put the toilet out on the right day.
How to Dispose of an Old Toilet
So, you have ripped out the old fixture and installed the new one, but now you are stuck with an unwanted commode. Here are the best ways to dispose of it safely and legally.
Donate the Toilet
Charities exist that take old plumbing and give it a new lease on life. Habitat for Humanity ReStore is an excellent example of a non-profit organization that resells old bathroom fittings and other gently used items to fund community projects.
If your toilet is sanitary, free of cracks, and functioning well, pop it into your trunk and drive it to one of their donation centers. You will help someone in need and reduce your environmental footprint.
Curbside Pickup
Most local authorities have a waste management service that offers bulk curbside pickup. You must check with them first to gauge the rules before dragging your heavy porcelain out to the street.
Many agencies require the toilet to be taken apart, with the tank’s lid and toilet seat removed. You also need to ensure the fixing bolts are taken out and the bowl is completely water-free. Speaking to the waste collection agency ensures they won’t refuse the item and gives you accurate collection dates.
Disassemble or Break It Down
Toilets are heavy and awkward, making them difficult to move. It is often easier to dispose of the core parts separately. Do not throw the whole toilet in your standard household waste bin; it makes the bin too heavy, and the garbage operator will likely reject it.
Follow the guidelines below:
- Separate the tank and bowl: Unscrew the bolts connecting the tank to the bowl to make two lighter pieces.
- Break it up: If your local laws allow it, you can use a sledgehammer to smash the porcelain into small shards. Warning: Porcelain shards are razor-sharp. Wear heavy protective eyewear, gloves, and thick clothing.
- Box it up: Place the broken pieces into a sturdy box or heavy-duty trash bag before putting it in the bin.
Landfill or Transfer Station
This may not be the greenest solution, but it is the most common way of disposing of an old toilet. A transfer station is a holding facility that sorts through large trash items before deciding their fate.
You might find that a landfill is your only route if you lack nearby recycling options. Some transfer stations charge a fee, especially for non-residents, so keep that in mind. You may also face landfill fees because a toilet is considered construction debris. Always call ahead to confirm fees and payment methods.
Rent a Dumpster
If you are doing a full bathroom remodel, renting a dumpster makes financial sense. You can store all your waste conveniently, and it gets carted away when you are finished.
You can find dumpster companies online, read reviews, and compare prices. It is best to speak to the professionals to determine the right dumpster size and rental duration.
Take Note
If you are only removing a single toilet, renting a dumpster is likely too expensive. This option is best reserved for full renovations.
Recycle the Toilet
If you hate the idea of tossing your toilet into a landfill, try recycling it. Porcelain can be crushed and used for concrete aggregate or road base. Search for “porcelain recycling near me” to find local centers.
You can also ask for recommendations from your local garbage collection agency or water authority. Shop around, as you may still be charged a small fee when dropping off the material.
Sell or Give the Toilet Away
Selling the fixture yourself is a great way to recoup costs, provided the toilet is a high-end model or a desirable vintage color. You get the satisfaction of knowing it found a new home rather than ending up in the garbage.
Ensure the toilet is scrubbed clean and looks presentable. If you doubt it will sell, give it away. Join a local “Buy Nothing” group on Facebook to see if a neighbor wants it.
Freecycle is another well-known platform for giving away items. Once you connect with an interested party, arrange a safe porch pickup.
Repurpose the Toilet
Why not turn your old commode into a conversation starter? They make novelty planters for gardens, often called “potty planters.”
You can also turn the toilet bowl into a miniature pond to attract frogs and insects. We have even seen people repurpose toilet seats as photo frames, though that aesthetic certainly isn’t for everyone.
Toilet Disposal Fees
Whenever you dispose of bulky items, you usually have to pay. Whoever handles your old toilet incurs labor and transport costs, so it is only fitting that they pass those on to you.
Your local garbage collection agency will tell you their fees for bulk curbside collection. If you drive it to a landfill or transfer station, expect to pay a tipping fee, which can range from $10 to $50 depending on your location.
How to Remove a Toilet
Before you can dispose of your old toilet, you need to get it off the floor without flooding the bathroom. Here is a quick guide.
What You Will Need
Gather these tools before you start:
- Putty knife
- Pliers
- Screwdriver
- Hacksaw
- Adjustable wrench
- Penetrating oil
- Bucket
- Rags
- Rubber gloves
- Old towels
- Sponge
- Wire brush
1. Isolate Water and Drain
Turn off the water at the supply valve on the wall behind the toilet. Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank. Lay old towels around the base to catch drips, then use a sponge to soak up any remaining water in the tank and the bowl.
2. Remove the Tank
Disconnect the water supply pipe using your adjustable wrench. Locate the bolts beneath the tank that connect it to the bowl.
Use the wrench and pliers to loosen these nuts. Once free, gently lift the tank and set it aside. If you have a one-piece toilet, such as this Swiss Madison model, you only need to disconnect the water supply line.
Top Tip
After years of use, bolts often rust. Spray WD-40 on them a few minutes before you start to help loosen stuck nuts.
3. Remove the Bowl
Pop the plastic caps covering the floor bolts at the base of the toilet. Unscrew the nuts using your wrench. If they just spin or are stripped, you may need to cut them off with a hacksaw.
Use a utility knife to cut through the caulk seal around the base. Gently rock the toilet side-to-side to break the wax seal. Lift the toilet straight up and move it out of the room.
4. Clean the Flange
Use a putty knife to scrape the old wax ring off the floor flange. Remove any old caulk from the floor. This is a good time to inspect the flange; if it is cracked or broken, replace it now before installing the new toilet.
5. Plug the Drain
Immediately stuff an old rag into the open drain pipe. This prevents sewer gases from entering your home and stops tools from accidentally falling down the hole.
FAQs
Will a Plumber Dispose of a Toilet for You?
Yes, most licensed plumbers will dispose of your old toilet for you if they are installing a new one. However, this service usually costs extra. Always check if disposal fees are included in your initial quote.
Does Home Depot Take Old Toilets?
No, Home Depot generally does not accept old toilets for recycling or disposal. You will need to take the toilet to a local landfill, transfer station, or a recycling center like Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
Are Toilets Hazardous Waste?
Modern toilets are not hazardous. However, very old toilets (pre-1980s) or the flooring materials attached to them may contain asbestos. If you suspect your bathroom fixtures are from this era, consult a specialist before smashing or disturbing the materials.
Can I Smash a Toilet to Dispose of It?
Yes, breaking a toilet into smaller pieces can make it easier to fit into trash bags or bins. However, porcelain creates dangerously sharp shards when shattered. Always wear safety goggles, heavy gloves, and thick clothing, and wrap the toilet in an old blanket before striking it with a sledgehammer.
To Dump or Not to Dump
That is the big question. Recycling your old fixture is the best method if you want to reduce your environmental impact. There are plenty of ways to avoid simply tossing the toilet in the trash, from donating to ReStore to crushing it for concrete.
If all else fails, unleash your creative side and repurpose the bowl into a garden feature. The planet, and your local wildlife, will thank you.
