How to Get Rid of an Old Push Lawn Mower: 7 Easy Ways

Last Updated on July 14, 2026 by D. Ruddy

Old push mowers clutter garages and can leak oil into the ground. This guide covers how to get rid of an old push lawn mower using seven simple methods.

In short, you can remove an old push mower by selling, donating, recycling, or using municipal pickup. Each method saves landfill space and keeps hazardous fluids out of the environment. Choose based on mower condition, local rules, and your available time.

Key Takeaways

• Getting rid of an old push lawn mower takes under two hours with municipal bulk pickup.
• Recycling your mower as scrap metal earns about $5 to $15 depending on local steel prices.
• Donating a working mower to Habitat for Humanity helps families maintain their yards.
• Improper disposal of mowers can release oil and gas that contaminate soil and water.
• Selling online through Facebook Marketplace reaches local buyers within a few days.

Quick Comparison Table

1 – Sell It Online

Overview

Selling your mower online connects you with local buyers fast. Use platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Post clear photos and list the mower’s condition honestly.

Clean the mower before shooting pictures. Remove grass clumps and wipe the deck. A neat listing sells quicker. Many neighbors search for cheap push mowers each spring.

How to List It

1. Brush off dirt and dried grass from the mower body.
2. Take bright photos from front, side, and under deck.
3. Write a title that names the brand and type.
4. Set a fair price near typical local rates.
5. Arrange meetings in a safe public space.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: You earn cash and avoid disposal fees.
• Pro: Buyers handle pickup, saving you transport effort.
• Con: Strangers visit your home, raising safety concerns.
• Con: Listings may sit for weeks if demand is low.

Tip: Meet buyers in a public parking lot to stay safe during online sales.

Best For

This method fits owners with a working or lightly used mower. It also suits people comfortable with online meetings and neighborhood apps.

2 – Donate to Charity

Overview

Many charities accept working mowers. Habitat for Humanity ReStores often take them. Call ahead to confirm acceptance and hours.

Donating helps families keep yards tidy. You may also get a tax deduction receipt. Local shelters and community gardens sometimes need mowers too.

How to Donate

1. Check the charity website for accepted items list.
2. Call the branch to verify mower pickup options.
3. Clean the mower so it is safe to handle.
4. Drop it off or schedule a charity truck.
5. Request a written donation receipt for taxes.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: Supports community members in need.
• Pro: Frees garage space with no cost.
• Con: Charity may reject rusted or broken units.
• Con: You must drop off or arrange delivery.

Best For

Choose donation when your mower starts reliably. It works well for those wanting a write-off and a community boost.

3 – Recycle as Scrap Metal

Overview

Scrap yards buy mowers for steel and aluminum. First drain all fluids to follow EPA guidelines. Then load the mower into a truck or trailer.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, millions of tons of metal from equipment like mowers get recycled each year. This keeps hazardous waste from landfills. The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries notes that recycling steel saves about 74 percent of energy versus new production.

How to Prepare for Scrap

1. Run the engine dry or siphon remaining gas.
2. Remove the oil via the drain plug into a jug.
3. Take off the blade with a socket wrench.
4. Load the frame and wheel parts securely.
5. Weigh in at the yard and collect payment.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: You earn a small payment per pound.
• Pro: Metal reuse cuts mining demand.
• Con: Dragging a heavy mower is hard work.
• Con: Prices fluctuate with market rates.

Warning: Never drain oil onto the ground. Collect it in a sealed jug for hazardous waste drop-off.

Best For

Broken mowers with metal frames suit scrap recycling. It fits owners near a yard with a vehicle and basic tools.

4 – Trade-In at Hardware Store

Overview

Some retailers offer trade-in credits during promotions. Bring your old push mower when buying a new one. Staff may haul it away for free.

Check local stores for seasonal events. Not every location runs these programs currently. Ask the garden department about current offers before you shop.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: Instant discount on new equipment.
• Pro: Store handles removal logistics.
• Con: Only available at certain times.
• Con: Credit may be modest, around $10.

Best For

This helps shoppers replacing their mower. It suits those planning a new purchase soon and who live near a participating store.

5 – Municipal Bulk Pickup

Overview

Most towns offer bulk waste collection. Schedule a pickup through your local waste authority. Place the mower at the curb on the assigned day.

Remove gas and oil first. Many cities ban fluids in bulk trash for safety. If you search for how to get rid of an old push lawn mower without effort, this method works best.

Steps to Schedule

1. Visit your town website or call the public works line.
2. Ask about bulk metal collection dates.
3. Drain all fluids into proper containers.
4. Set the mower at the curb by 7 a.m.
5. Confirm it was tagged for removal after pickup.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: Low effort for the resident.
• Pro: Fee is often included in taxes.
• Con: Wait times can reach two weeks.
• Con: Some areas limit item size.

Tip: Call your town hall before placing a mower curbside to avoid a citation.

Best For

Use this for any condition mower. It fits those without transport or extra cash who can wait for the truck.

6 – Repurpose or Upcycle

Overview

Turn the mower into garden art or a cart. Remove the blade and engine first. Then weld or bolt parts to planters.

DIY blogs show mowers become tidy tool carriers. This avoids disposal entirely. Common projects include a wheelbarrow frame, a flower planter, or a yard sculpture.

Ideas to Try

• Build a garden cart from the deck and wheels.
• Make a succulent planter from the mower body.
• Use the handle as a trellis for vines.
• Create a bird bath base from the frame.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: Sparks creativity and saves money.
• Pro: Keeps metal out of waste stream.
• Con: Requires tools and workshop skill.
• Con: Takes several weekend hours.

Best For

Handy owners with time enjoy this route. It fits those wanting unique yard features and who own a welder.

7 – Hire a Junk Removal Service

Overview

Companies like 1-800-Got-Junk haul mowers for a fee. Book online and point to the item. Crews lift it without your strain.

They sort items for donation or recycling after pickup. You pay for convenience. Many firms accept credit cards and give upfront quotes.

Pros and Cons

• Pro: Zero physical labor for you.
• Pro: Same-day slots often available.
• Con: Costs $50 to $100 per load.
• Con: Less eco-control than scrap yard.

Best For

Busy homeowners with heavy mowers choose this. It fits those prioritizing speed over small savings.

How to Choose the Right Disposal Method

If you search for how to get rid of an old push lawn mower, start by checking condition. Match the method to your mower’s state and your schedule. Follow these steps to decide.

1. Check if the mower starts and cuts grass.
2. Estimate your available time this week.
3. Call your local waste office for rules.
4. Compare potential earnings versus fees.
5. Pick the option that fits your comfort.

Important: Always drain fuel and oil before any disposal. This prevents fires and soil contamination.

What Are the Risks of Improper Disposal?

Throwing a mower in a ditch or regular bin harms nature. Learn the main dangers below.

• Oil leaks poison soil and reach drinking water.
• Gas vapors can ignite in compacted trash trucks.
• Steel waste wastes resources that recycling recovers.

According to Earth911 data, about 75 percent of scrap metal gets recycled currently, but leftover equipment still fills dumps. Proper steps keep communities safe. The OSHA safety rules require handling fuels with care to avoid burns.

Common Myths vs Facts

Myth 1: You can toss a mower with regular trash

Fact: Most municipalities ban bulky metal items in standard bins. They require bulk pickup or scrap drop-off at a designated site.

Myth 2: Leftover gas evaporates safely

Fact: Gasoline fumes stay flammable and pollute air. Drain it into a certified container for disposal at a hazard facility.

Myth 3: Recycling pays almost nothing

Fact: Steel prices vary, but a typical push mower yields $5 to $15 at many yards. That covers fuel for the trip and helps the planet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I leave my old mower on the curb anytime?

No. Most towns set specific bulk collection days. Contact your local waste management to schedule pickup and avoid fines for illegal dumping.

Do I need to remove the blade before recycling?

Yes. Scrap yards prefer blades separated for safety. Use a wrench to take it off, then recycle both the steel deck and the blade.

Will charities pick up a broken mower?

Usually no. Groups like Habitat for Humanity need working items. Broken units go to scrap yards or junk removal services instead.

How much does junk removal cost for one mower?

Services typically charge $50 to $100 per load. Price depends on region and whether they take other items such as furniture or branches.

Is it legal to burn an old mower?

No. Burning releases toxic fumes from paint and oil. The EPA prohibits open burning of such waste. Use approved disposal instead to protect air.

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of an old push mower is simple with seven clear paths. Sell, donate, or recycle to protect the environment and free your space. Pick the method that matches your mower’s condition and your schedule today.