Sometimes your toilet breaks down, and you need a new one. Or maybe you’re remodeling and want a different toilet. Either way, how do you dispose of your old toilet?

The easiest way to dispose of a toilet is to take it to your yard, hose it and place it between 2 tarps or old blankets. Then, take a hammer and smash it into smaller pieces that will fit in your trash can. Now, use the blanket to transport it into the trash can.

Methods of Getting Rid of Your Old Toilet

Maybe it’s time for an update, or you’re just tired of clogs? Whatever the reason you need to get rid of that big old toilet, it won’t fit in your trash can. Don’t fret, here are a few ways to get rid of that old latrine.

Breaking it Into a Manageable Size

The reason it is so hard to get rid of your toilet is primarily its large size. Here is how to deal with that. Make sure to wear hand and eye protection and follow these steps.

  1. Remove your toilet. Toilets have one water supply in the rear. Turn this off, flush the toilet until empty, and sop up remaining water from the tank. Then, unscrew the hose attaching the water supply to the toilet, and remove the two nuts affixing the toilet to the floor. 
  2. Take your toilet outside. Now would be an excellent time to hose it down before proceeding.
  3. Cover the entire toilet. Place the toilet on a tarp or old blanket. Though not necessary, it is a good idea to cover the toilet with another tarp or blanket.
  4. Smash the toilet. Use a hammer and start hitting it from the side. Keep breaking it until it is in pieces that will fit inside your trash can.
  5. Throw it away. You can use the tarp or blanket and carry the pieces to your trash can.

Disassemble

If you want to avoid smashing anything, it is possible to separate the tank from the toilet bowl. This can allow you to fit the pieces in many more vehicles for transport. Follow these steps.

  1. Drain your toilet. Toilets have one water supply in the rear. Turn this off and flush the toilet until empty. 
  2. Dry remaining water. Use a towel or sponge to remove the remaining water from the tank. Unscrew the hose attaching the water supply to the toilet. 
  3. Remove the attaching nuts. These nuts are attached to 2 or 3 long bolts protruding from the bottom of the tank. Use an adjustable wrench and remove them.
  4. Remove the tank. Carefully lift the tank over the nuts and set it aside carefully.
  5. Finish removing the bowl. Two nuts are holding the bowl to the floor. Once you remove the toilet bowl, make sure to clean it before trying to load it in your car.

Pay for Disposal

If you are checking a DIY article, you are probably trying to avoid paying professionals. However, did you know you can typically arrange for pickup of large items with your regular trash?

This is sometimes free a certain number of times a year; otherwise, you may have to pay $50 to $100.

 

Donate Your Toilet

To you, your toilet may be trash, but to others, it may still be useful. The charity Habitat for Humanity will typically accept toilets as long as they are not cracked or chipped. These will be used to build homes for the homeless.

Salvage yards often will accept toilets as well. These places typically clean and sell them, and it is even more likely if your toilet is vintage.

When Should I Get Rid of my Toilet?

Many things could cause you to decide to replace your toilet whether or not it’s necessary. However, these symptoms may indicate it is time to update. 

  • Clogs: If your toilet frequently becomes clogged, it may be more convenient to get a new one. If the toilet clogs frequently and is located far from the main drain line consider replacing it with a macerating toilet.
  • Scratches: Scratches make a toilet harder to clean, which increases the likelihood of an unsanitary toilet.
  • Cracks: If the toilet is cracked, you should dispose of it, especially if the crack is in the tank. If there are visible cracks, it is best to be on the lookout for leaks until replacement. Because cracks may leak without visible dripping and this could damage the floor.
  • Uneconomical: If your toilet is old, you may be wasting a lot of money on water. This may make it more economical to buy a new toilet.
  • Repairs: If you find yourself paying for frequent repairs, it is probably time to get rid of your toilet. It is likely to save you money in the long run.

Recycling a Toilet

Recycling can be an environmentally friendly alternative to merely disposing of an old porcelain toilet. However, there are a few steps you should take to safely recycle your toilet.

  1. Clean and disinfect the toilet thoroughly. 
  2. Separate the porcelain and non-porcelain parts.
  3. Dispose of the non-porcelain parts.
  4. Call your city government to find out where your local recycling center is.
  5. Check to see if the recycling center accepts porcelain toilets.
  6. Drop the toilet off at the recycling center if it agrees to accept toilets.
  7. Follow the instructions for disposal above, if it does not.

Reusing an Old Toilet

If you find it difficult or inconvenient to dispose of or recycle your toilet, you could reuse your toilet. You’ll discover several ways to do this should you choose this option. However, obviously, all of the possibilities require thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the toilet.

Once you’ve disinfected the toilet, you can decide how to use it. 

  • Chair: You could turn your old toilet into a chair by adding a cushion or padding.
  • Planter: Your old toilet can be turned into a cute planter. Just add some dirt and flowers and find a nice place in your yard to place it.
  • Decor: If you’re talented at art or just enjoy crafts, you could always turn the toilet into a yard decoration.
  • Storage: The toilet could also be used for storage.

Is Replacing a Toilet Easy?

If you want to replace your old toilet, the hardest part is choosing a new one between all the options out there.

Removing your old toilet is not difficult and can be done by the average homeowner. However, installation is not that difficult though you need to make sure you install it correctly, or it could leak and cause damage.