Replacing or upgrading a toilet is one of those home projects most of us don’t think about until it’s absolutely necessary. Maybe you’re remodeling your bathroom, maybe the old one cracked, or maybe it just isn’t working the way it should anymore. Either way, you’re left with one big question: what do you do with an old toilet once it’s out?
A lot of people wonder if they can just put a toilet out on the curb with their regular trash. It feels like the easiest solution, but in most cases, it’s not that simple. Toilets are considered bulky waste, and depending on where you live, your trash service might not even take them.
The good news is that there are several safe, legal, and eco-friendly ways to dispose of a toilet. From recycling and donation to professional junk removal, you’ve got options that can save you time and keep waste out of landfills.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — answering the most common questions, highlighting disposal methods, and helping you choose the best option for your situation.
Can You Throw a Toilet in the Trash?
The short answer: probably not. Most cities won’t let you toss a toilet into your curbside trash bin. For one, toilets are heavy and bulky, making them tough for regular collection crews to handle. They also contain materials like porcelain, plastic, and metal that need to be separated for proper disposal.
Many municipalities classify toilets as “bulky waste”, which means they require a special pickup or drop-off. In some places, you can schedule a bulky item collection with your local waste provider, but you may need to remove the tank lid or separate parts before they’ll take it. Other areas require you to haul it yourself to a designated landfill or recycling facility.
Here are a few common rules you might run into:
- Curbside bins don’t allow toilets – too large and not recyclable in standard systems.
- Bulky item pickup may be available – but it often comes with a fee.
- Drop-off facilities – many cities direct residents to local recycling or construction waste centers.
Disposal rules vary depending on your city or county. Before you put that old toilet out on the curb, it’s always a good idea to call your waste management provider and check what’s allowed.
Recycling Options for Old Toilets
One of the best things you can do with an old toilet is recycle it. While it might not seem like the kind of thing that can be reused, the materials inside your toilet actually have a second life. For example, the porcelain can be crushed down and repurposed for things like road construction fill, concrete aggregate, or even landscaping material. Instead of sitting in a landfill, it gets a new purpose.
It’s not just the porcelain that can be reused. Toilets often contain multiple recyclable parts:
- Metal components like handles, bolts, and hinges can be melted down.
- Plastic parts (such as seats or lids) can sometimes be recycled separately, depending on your local facility.
- Wax rings and seals typically can’t be recycled, but they should be safely discarded.
The biggest benefit of recycling your toilet is simple: it keeps bulky, heavy waste out of landfills. Toilets are awkward, they take up a lot of space, and once they’re dumped, they don’t break down easily. By recycling, you’re helping reduce waste and making sure valuable materials are put back into use.
Many municipalities or recycling centers have specific programs for construction and demolition (C&D) waste, which is where toilets usually fall. A quick call to your local recycling facility or junk removal company can point you in the right direction.
DIY Disposal – How to Remove and Haul a Toilet Yourself
If you’re handy and don’t mind a little heavy lifting, you can remove and dispose of a toilet yourself. Just be prepared — toilets are heavier and more awkward than they look, especially if you’re working in a small bathroom space. Taking the right precautions will save you from injury and a big mess.
Steps for Safe Removal
- Shut off the water supply – Turn the valve near the base of the toilet until the water is off.
- Drain the tank and bowl – Flush to remove most of the water, then use a sponge or towel to soak up the rest.
- Disconnect the water line – Carefully unscrew the supply line from the bottom of the tank.
- Unbolt the toilet – Remove the nuts from the bolts at the base. These may be rusted, so a wrench or penetrating oil may help.
- Lift carefully – Toilets can weigh between 60–120 lbs, so get a second pair of hands if possible. Lift straight up to break the wax seal.
Where to Take It
Once you’ve removed the toilet, you’ll need to figure out disposal. Some options include:
- Local landfill – Check if they accept toilets and whether there’s a fee.
- Recycling center – Some accept porcelain and metal parts.
- Bulky item drop-off programs – Many municipalities hold scheduled collection events.
DIY disposal can save money, but it’s not always the easiest option. Between the heavy lifting, transportation, and possible disposal fees, some homeowners prefer professional help.
How Much Does Toilet Disposal Cost?
One of the first questions people ask when replacing a toilet is, “How much will it cost to get rid of the old one?” The answer depends on the method you choose — from DIY drop-offs to full-service junk removal.
Landfill or Recycling Center Fees
If you’re hauling the toilet yourself, expect to pay a small disposal fee. Local landfills or recycling centers often charge $10–$50 per item, depending on size and material. Some facilities charge by weight, so a heavy porcelain toilet may cost more.
City Bulky Pickup Services
Some municipalities offer bulky waste pickup, which may include toilets. Fees vary widely, but you can expect around $30–$75 per pickup, depending on your location and the number of items. The downside: you usually have to schedule weeks in advance, and they may limit how many items they’ll collect.
Junk Removal Service Pricing
Hiring a junk removal service is the most convenient option. Pricing is usually based on volume — meaning how much space your toilet (and any other junk you’re tossing) takes up in their truck. For a single toilet, expect anywhere from $150–$300, often including pickup, labor, and eco-friendly disposal.
DIY vs. Professional Costs
- DIY disposal: Lower cost, but requires heavy lifting, transportation, and your time.
- Professional disposal: Higher cost, but everything is handled for you, from pickup to recycling.
if you value convenience and speed, professional services are worth the price. If you don’t mind the work, DIY can save you some money.
Eco-Friendly Benefits of Professional Disposal
When you hire a professional junk removal or hauling service, you’re not just paying for convenience — you’re also making a smarter choice for the environment. Old toilets may look like simple porcelain and metal, but improper disposal can lead to wasted materials and added pressure on already crowded landfills.
Recycling Valuable Materials
Professional services often separate parts of the toilet for recycling.
- Porcelain can be crushed and reused as aggregate in road construction.
- Metal fixtures and hardware can be melted down and reused in manufacturing.
- Plastic components like seats and lids can also find new life through recycling streams.
Prioritizing Green Disposal
Many junk removal companies now have a green-first policy. Instead of dumping everything at a landfill, they partner with recycling facilities and donation centers. This means your old toilet could contribute to sustainable projects instead of simply taking up space in a dump.
Supporting Sustainability Goals
By choosing eco-friendly disposal, you’re doing more than just clearing out your bathroom — you’re helping support zero-waste initiatives and reducing your household’s environmental footprint. It’s a small step that adds up when more people make the same choice.
FAQs About Toilet Disposal
Can I leave my toilet on the curb for trash pickup?
In most areas, the answer is no. Toilets are usually considered bulky waste, which means they won’t be picked up with your regular trash. Some cities offer bulky-item pickup, but you’ll need to schedule it in advance and pay a small fee.
Do I have to remove the tank from the bowl before disposal?
Not always, but it often makes disposal easier. Many facilities prefer toilets to be separated into two pieces for handling. It also makes the load lighter and safer for transport.
Are toilet seats recyclable?
Most toilet seats are made of plastic, wood composite, or padded materials, which usually aren’t recyclable through curbside programs. The seat is often discarded, while the porcelain bowl can be recycled.
Can broken toilets be recycled?
Yes — even if cracked or damaged, the porcelain can be crushed and reused in construction projects, like road base or aggregate. Just make sure to take it to a facility that accepts these materials.
Is it cheaper to take a toilet to the dump myself?
Usually, yes. A landfill or recycling center will charge $10–$50 per item, which is cheaper than hiring a junk removal company. However, keep in mind that you’ll need the right vehicle, strength to haul it, and time to make the trip.
