Washing Machine Disposal Guide
Washing machines are primarily made of recyclable materials including steel, aluminum, copper, and plastic. They contain electrical components and motors that can be salvaged and recycled.
Environmental Considerations
Washing machines contain various metals and electronic components that should be recycled rather than sent to landfill. While they don't contain the same hazardous refrigerants as cooling appliances, they do have electrical components and sometimes lead-containing parts that require proper handling.
Important Handling Precautions
- Secure or remove the door to prevent entrapment risks
- Drain all water from the machine completely
- Disconnect from water and power supplies
- Secure any loose parts for transport
- Use proper lifting techniques as washing machines are heavy
Preparation Steps
Before disposing of your washing machine, follow these steps:
Disconnect from water supply and power
Remove any clothing or items from inside
Drain all water from hoses and internal components
Secure the drum to prevent movement during transport
Consider removing easily detachable hoses
Consider Repair First: Before disposing of your washing machine, consider whether it could be repaired. Contact us for an assessment.
How Washing Machines Are Recycled
When a washing machine is recycled, it goes through a systematic disassembly process to recover valuable materials and safely dispose of any hazardous components. Here's what happens when you recycle your washing machine:
Materials Recovered
A typical washing machine can be broken down into these recyclable components:
- Metal drum and outer casing (highly recyclable)
- Electric motor and pump
- Concrete weight blocks
- Circuit boards and electronic components
- Plastic components (control panel, soap dispensers, etc)
- Hoses and seals
Disposal Facility Requirements
Most recycling centers and waste transfer stations accept washing machines. They don't require the specialized handling needed for refrigerants, but should still be processed at proper e-waste or appliance recycling facilities.
Always call ahead to confirm a facility accepts your specific appliance type and to ask about any preparation requirements.
Where to Dispose of Your Washing Machine in Perth
The following facilities in Perth accept washing machines for proper disposal and recycling. Always call ahead to confirm operating hours and any special requirements.
Balcatta Recycling Centre
Address: 238 Balcatta Road, Balcatta WA 6021
Phone: (08) 9345 8555
Note: Accepts all types of whitegoods. Proof of City of Stirling residency required.
Henderson Waste Recovery Park
Address: 920 Rockingham Road, Henderson WA 6166
Phone: (08) 9411 3444
Note: Includes reuse shop for working appliances. Accepts all major whitegoods.
Tamala Park Waste Management Facility
Address: 1700 Marmion Avenue, Tamala Park WA 6030
Phone: (08) 9306 6303
Note: Serves multiple council areas. Accepts all types of whitegoods.
Red Hill Waste Management Facility
Address: 1094 Toodyay Road, Red Hill WA 6056
Phone: (08) 9574 6235
Note: Services multiple shires in eastern region. Accepts all whitegoods.
Armadale Landfill and Recycling Facility
Address: Hopkinson Road, Hilbert WA 6112
Phone: (08) 9399 6645
Note: Accepts all major whitegoods. Proof of City of Armadale residency may be required.
Cockburn Resource Recovery Centre
Address: 685 Cockburn Road, Henderson WA 6166
Phone: (08) 9411 3444
Note: Accepts all types of whitegoods. Electronic waste and large appliances are recycled through their dedicated facility.
Canning Waste Transfer Station
Address: 81 Ranford Road, Canning Vale WA 6155
Phone: (08) 9256 0555
Note: Accepts whitegoods from City of Canning residents. Electronic waste is processed separately.
Western Metropolitan Regional Council Recycling Centre
Address: Brockway Road, Shenton Park WA 6008
Phone: (08) 9384 4003
Note: Accepts whitegoods and prioritizes recycling components. Serves western suburbs of Perth.
JFR (Jim) McGeough Resource Recovery Facility
Address: 39 Kenhelm Street, Baldivis WA 6171
Phone: (08) 9528 8550
Note: Accepts all whitegoods and large electrical appliances. Operated by the City of Rockingham.
Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council Red Hill Facility
Address: 1094 Toodyay Road, Red Hill WA 6056
Phone: (08) 9424 2222
Note: Comprehensive facility accepting all whitegoods. Services multiple eastern metropolitan councils.
Mandurah Waste Management Centre
Address: 80 Corsican Way, Parklands WA 6210
Phone: (08) 9550 3777
Note: Accepts all household whitegoods. Located south of Perth metro area but serves many southern communities.
Mindarie Regional Council Recycling Centre
Address: 100 Pederick Road, Neerabup WA 6031
Phone: (08) 9306 6303
Note: Specialized in resource recovery and recycling of all appliance types. Serves northern Perth suburbs.
Alternative Disposal Options
Reuse & Donation
Working washing machines are in high demand for second-hand use. If your machine is still operational, consider selling or donating it. Some repair shops may also accept non-working machines for parts.
Donation Options:
- Salvos Stores (Salvation Army)
- Good Sammy
- Local community groups
Council Collection
Many Perth councils offer bulk waste collections that accept whitegoods. These services are typically offered 1-2 times per year or may be available on-demand for a small fee.
Steps to use this service:
- Contact your local council to confirm collection dates or schedule a pickup
- Prepare your washing machine according to council guidelines
- Place the appliance on your verge at the specified time
Need Help With Your Appliance?
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