Got an Old Dishwasher? Here’s How to Get Rid of It in Columbus
So your dishwasher has finally called it quits. Now what? These large appliances are tough to move and even harder to get rid of properly. The good news is, if you live in Columbus, OH, you’ve got several easy, eco-friendly options, and we’re walking you through all of them.
From recycling and donation to pickup services and curbside rules, this post breaks down the best ways to clear out your old dishwasher without breaking your back (or any city codes).
Ready? Let’s dive in.
First Things First: Can It Be Reused or Donated?
Not every old dishwasher needs to head straight to the dump. If your unit still works or only needs a small repair, someone else in Columbus might be happy to take it off your hands. Giving kitchen appliances a second life keeps waste out of landfills and helps local families or organizations in need.
Start by testing your dishwasher. If it runs cycles and doesn’t leak, it’s probably still usable. Give it a good cleaning, wipe down the inside, and remove any personal items like racks or utensils.
Here are a few places in Columbus that often accept working dishwashers:
- Goodwill Columbus – They accept large working appliances at select donation centers.
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore – Great option for gently used dishwashers, especially if they’re newer or Energy Star rated.
- Volunteers of America – Some locations accept appliance donations for resale or community use.
You can also try giving it away locally through Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Buy Nothing Columbus groups. Many landlords, DIY renovators, or college renters are happy to pick up a working unit.
If your dishwasher still has life left in it, donation is the most rewarding way to get rid of it, and someone else benefits too.

How to Recycle an Old Dishwasher in Columbus, OH
When your old dishwasher finally gives up, tossing it in the trash isn’t the best move. These machines are packed with metal, wiring, and plastic that don’t belong in a landfill. The good news? Most of it can be reused or recycled; you just need to know where to take it.
Here’s how to recycle your dishwasher the right way in Columbus:
1. Call a Local Scrap Yard
Dishwashers are full of valuable metals like stainless steel and copper. Scrap yards such as Columbus Scrap Materials Inc. or Sims Brothers Recycling often take old appliances for drop-off. It’s best to call ahead and ask a few quick questions:
- Do they accept dishwashers?
- Should you remove the plastic parts first?
- Can they pick it up?
Some places might even pay you a few bucks for the metal.
2. Ask Your Utility Company
Sometimes, local utility companies offer appliance recycling deals. Columbia Gas of Ohio and AEP Ohio have run programs in the past for things like old fridges and air conditioners. Dishwashers aren’t always included, but it’s still worth a quick call to see if they’ve added new options.
3. Drop It Off at a Local Recycling Site
The Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) has great recycling resources and holds drop-off events for large household items. Most of their centers handle everyday recyclables, but some accept bulky appliances too. Check their website or give them a call before you load it up.
4. Let the Pros Handle It
If you’d rather not deal with heavy lifting or hauling, just call Master Junkers. We’ll come right to your door in Columbus, pick up your old dishwasher, and drop it off at the right recycling or disposal center. No tools, no mess, no hassle, just an easy pickup and peace of mind knowing it’s handled the right way
Curbside Bulk Pickup Rules in Columbus
Handling a full appliance or major clean‑out for your home? It’s smart to know how the city’s bulk collection rules work before you rush to the curb.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- The city accepts large items like furniture and appliances without refrigerants, yes, that means dishwashers are eligible.
- You must schedule the pickup either by calling 311 at (614) 645‑3111 or using the online bulk item request form.
- Place your item at the curb on your scheduled day only, no earlier than 72 hours ahead of time.
- This service isn’t meant for large volumes of construction or renovation debris; those usually need a private hauler.
If you’d rather skip the scheduling and lifting, we at Master Junkers are right here in Columbus and ready to handle the full haul‑away for you.
Easiest Option? Schedule a Haul-Away with Master Junkers
If you’re staring at that old dishwasher and thinking, “I just want it gone,” we’ve got you. No tools, no lifting, no worrying about cords, hoses, or recycling centers. Just a quick call, and it’s out of your way.
Here’s why scheduling a pickup with Master Junkers is the easiest and most stress-free option in Columbus:
We Handle the Heavy Stuff
Dishwashers are bulky and awkward to carry. We bring the muscle and the right equipment.
Same-Day and Next-Day Availability
Need it gone fast? In many cases, we can get to you within 24 hours, sometimes even the same day.
Responsible Disposal Every Time
We don’t just dump it. We haul it to licensed recycling centers or transfer stations near Columbus for proper dishwasher disposal, keeping it out of landfills whenever possible.
Affordable, Upfront Pricing
No guesswork. You’ll get a clear quote upfront with zero surprise fees.
Local and Reliable
Based right here in Columbus, our crew knows the area, shows up on time, and gets the job done right.
So if you’re done with your old dishwasher, let Master Junkers make it disappear quickly, clean, and without the hassle.
📞 Call or text now to schedule: 1-866-614-5865
🗓️ Book online anytime: www.masterjunkers.com
What NOT to Do When Disposing of a Dishwasher
A few quick don’ts to keep things safe, legal, and eco-friendly.
Some disposal methods might seem like a quick fix, but they can cause big problems.
Don’t dump your dishwasher anywhere illegally. The City of Columbus can issue fines for this, and it’s a major environmental hazard.
Don’t leave it in an alley, on the curb, or in a parking lot. Even if you think someone might pick it up, this is considered illegal dumping.
Don’t throw it in a regular dumpster. Most municipal waste rules don’t allow appliances in standard trash bins.
Don’t let it sit around. A dishwasher sitting outside (or in your garage) can start leaking water or grow mold inside, which just makes things worse.
When in doubt, a proper haul-away service like Master Junkers can help you get rid of it the right way, no stress, no surprises.
Final Thoughts: Make It Quick, Clean, and Eco-Friendly
No matter which route you take, getting rid of an old dishwasher in Columbus doesn’t have to be a hassle.
If it still works, give it a second life by donating it. If it’s broken or beyond repair, look into local recycling options or skip the stress and let Master Junkers take care of everything for you.
We’ll pick it up, handle the heavy lifting, and make sure it’s disposed of properly. It’s the easiest way to clear up space and do right by the environment. Ready to ditch that old dishwasher? You know who to call.
Ready to Say Goodbye to That Old Dishwasher?
Skip the hassle and let Master Junkers handle it for you. We’ll come to your home in Columbus, haul it away safely, and make sure it gets proper disposal or recycling, no stress, no mess.
📞 Call/Text: 1-866-614-5865
📅 Book Online: masterjunkers.com
Fast Pickup. Fair Price. Local Team.
Let’s clear out that space today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have a few questions? We’ve got you covered.
Do junk removal companies take old dishwashers in Columbus?
Yes, most junk removal companies, including Master Junkers, will haul away old dishwashers and other appliances. We handle pickup, loading, and proper disposal so you don’t have to lift a thing.
Can I put a dishwasher out with my curbside trash in Columbus?
No. The City of Columbus does not allow appliances like dishwashers to be placed with regular trash. They require special disposal through scheduled bulk pickup or a junk removal service.
Is it illegal to dump a dishwasher in an alley or empty lot?
Yes. Illegal dumping in Columbus can result in fines or penalties. Always dispose of your dishwasher properly, either by donating, recycling, or scheduling a professional pickup.
Are there fees to recycle dishwashers at Columbus scrap yards?
Some scrap yards may offer free drop-off, while others might charge a small fee depending on the appliance. Always call ahead to places like Sims Brothers Recycling or Columbus Scrap Metals are good starting points.
Can you help with appliance removal if I have more than just a dishwasher?
Absolutely! While dishwasher removal is a common request, we also handle other appliances like washers, microwaves, freezers, cooktops, and more. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or clearing out your laundry room, we’ve got the muscle and the truck space to take it all.
Can I leave a new dishwasher outside for pickup if I haven’t installed it yet?
If it’s a new dishwasher that you no longer need, we recommend keeping it indoors until pickup. That way, it’s protected from the weather and less likely to be mistaken for trash. Some local donation centers might even accept unopened or like-new appliances if you’d prefer to donate.
Do old dishwashers contain hazardous materials?
They can. While most dishwashers are safe to remove, some older models may have small parts or components that require hazardous materials handling. We always check before disposal and follow proper recycling rules to keep things safe and eco-friendly.



