Can You Throw Away a Microwave? Disposal Guide for Boston, MA
Short answer: no, you shouldn't toss a microwave in the regular trash. Here's how to legally and safely get rid of it in Massachusetts.
If you've ever wondered "can you throw away a microwave?" — you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions Boston homeowners ask us. The short answer is **no, you shouldn't put a microwave in your regular curbside trash** in Massachusetts. Here's why, and what to do instead.
Why Microwaves Can't Go in the Trash
Microwaves contain electronic components, capacitors, and small amounts of heavy metals that classify them as e-waste. Under Massachusetts state law, many e-waste items are banned from regular landfill disposal. Most municipal trash haulers in Boston, Quincy, Brockton, and surrounding towns will refuse to pick up a microwave left at the curb.
Your Options for Microwave Disposal in Boston, MA
**1. Take it to a municipal recycling center.** Most Boston-area towns have a transfer station or recycling drop-off that accepts small appliances and e-waste. Call ahead — some charge a small fee ($5–$15) per item.
**2. Best Buy and other retailers.** Best Buy accepts microwaves for free recycling at any store location, regardless of where you bought it. Staples and some Home Depot locations also take small e-waste.
**3. Donate it (if it works).** Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat for Humanity ReStore will often accept working microwaves. Don't donate broken units — they'll just have to dispose of them.
**4. Schedule a junk removal pickup.** If you're already getting rid of other items — a [kitchen cleanout](/services/garage-cleanout), [estate cleanout](/services/estate-cleanout), or moving — having a pro haul the microwave with everything else is the easiest option. Our [appliance removal service](/services/appliance-removal) takes microwaves and ensures they're recycled at certified facilities.
What About Built-In Microwaves?
Built-in or over-the-range microwaves require uninstallation. If you're not comfortable disconnecting electrical wiring, hire a professional. Our crew can disconnect and haul built-in units as part of any [furniture removal](/services/furniture-removal) or kitchen cleanout job.
What It Costs
A standalone microwave pickup typically runs $75–$95 if it's the only item. Bundle it with other junk and the cost-per-item drops dramatically. We serve [Boston](/junk-removal-boston-ma), [Quincy](/junk-removal-quincy-ma), [Brockton](/junk-removal-brockton-ma), and 15+ surrounding towns.
Bottom Line
You can't legally throw a microwave in the regular trash in Massachusetts. Recycle it, donate it, or call a junk removal service that handles e-waste responsibly. Contact Delights Junk Removal for same-day microwave pickup across the South Shore and Metro Boston.