Once the weather starts to cool, most of the grass goes dormant and stops growing. This means less mowing. This is also a great time to assess your mower and consider if it will make it another season. If you decide your old lawn mower needs replacing, there are a few options for getting rid of it.

Assessing Your Old Lawn Mower

Before replacing any tool or appliance, consider the following:

1. Does it still work?
2. Is it worth repairing?
3. Do I know anyone who could use it?
4. Can any parts get recycled?
5. Does it contain hazardous materials?

The answers to these questions will help determine if your old mower should be sold, donated, recycled, or responsibly trashed.

Tool Disposal Options

You may have a perfectly good lawn mower you just don’t need anymore or you could have a rusting machine that’s beyond repair. The condition greatly impacts the following options.

• Selling. You’ll get a better deal if it’s still in prime condition. However, you may be able to find a buyer willing to scrap it for parts.
• Donating. Some organizations may need a working mower for a community garden or a vocational school with a small engine program. There could also be friends or family in need.
• Trading. Some home improvement stores have programs for buying, trading, or recycling old equipment.
• Recycling. If the mower doesn’t work, check with your local waste management service or recycling center to find out their policies for lawn mower disposal. You may be able to schedule a special bulk pickup.
• Scrapping. Dismantle the mower and recycle or sell the metal parts to a local scrap dealer.
• Junk Removal. If you can’t transport it or find anyone else to pick it up, hire a junk removal company to haul it away for you. JDog Junk Removal & Hauling will even do the work to donate or recycle pieces if possible.

Before you get rid of it, drain all fluids including gasoline, oil, and engine fluids. These liquids also need to be properly disposed of or taken to a hazardous waste facility. Once you responsibly dispose of your old mower, you can take the rest of the winter to assess what to do with the extra space in your garage or shed before next spring.