Getting rid of an old bath, basin or toilet
Plan disposal of bathroom fixtures separately from tiles, glass, packaging and contractor waste.
Agree disposal before the work starts
Ask your installer whether the quote includes all fixtures, tiles, packaging and waste transport. If you are doing the work yourself, check your council’s DIY policy, booking system and accepted materials first.
List the different materials
A ceramic basin, metal bath, plastic shower tray and glass shower screen may need different containers. Do not put broken ceramics or mirrors into bottle-and-jar recycling. Keep any reusable fixture intact until a recipient has agreed to take it.
Do not assume every DIY load is free
England has rules allowing qualifying household DIY waste without a charge within defined limits. That does not mean unlimited renovation waste, contractor waste or every specialist material is accepted free. Other nations and individual sites have different arrangements.
Prepare a safe handover
Discuss heavy lifting and safe disconnection with a competent installer. Tell the collector about broken edges. Do not smash fixtures to make them fit into a household bin.
See DIY quantities and materials and glass and mirrors.
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More guides
DIY waste: rubble, tiles and plasterboard
Plan disposal before a small renovation: what to ask about DIY waste limits, separate materials and waste produced by a tradesperson.
Leftover paint and household chemicals: finding a disposal route
What to ask your council about leftover paint, solvents and other chemicals without assuming every tin belongs in the bin or at the tip.
Suspected asbestos at home: stop before a clearance
What to do when an old shed, roof panel or other building material may contain asbestos, before booking demolition or rubbish removal.
Getting rid of old carpet, underlay and flooring
What to ask before taking carpet, underlay, laminate or vinyl to a recycling centre or booking a collection.