How to get rid of your old vacuum cleaner in 4 sustainable ways – and the last one waste management pros love may surprise you

Once you know when it's time to replace your vacuum cleaner, you're then tasked with having to dispose of your old one. And it's not as if you can simply throw it in the trash.

All of the best vacuum cleaners will reach the end of their life one day, but when that day comes, it doesn't have to be much of a task. Fortunately, there are options available to dispose of your vacuum cleaner that are sustainable and demand minimal effort.

I caught up with waste management specialists and professional contractors to find out the four best ways to dispose of your old vacuum, that not only protect the planet, but make the most out of the electrical parts.

1. Donate or sell

This is a great option if your vacuum still works or just needs some fixing, like if the vacuum's lost suction power. 'There are a lot of non-profit organizations, social services, or secondhand stores that would be more than happy to use these vacuums,' explains Josh Miller, CEO of Clean Carpets.

If there aren't any reputable spots nearby or you don't have easy access to any, consider posting online to see if anybody is happy to pick it up. Even if your vacuum might be smelling or broken, savvy people will be happy to save some money by fixing it up themselves.

Learn when it's time to replace your vacuum cleaner in our dedicated guide.

2. Check your manufacturer

If your vacuum no longer works, consult your manufacturer to see if they offer any trade-in services. Often, they'll facilitate pickup of your old vacuum, whether you're simply returning the parts or upgrading to a new one of theirs. This is also a great opportunity to check your warranty info, to find out if you're eligible for any replacement for faulty goods.

'Some electronic manufacturers like Dyson, Eufy, and Electrolux offer trade-in programs. In this case, you can trade-in your old vacuum cleaners to these manufacturers when you buy a new unit. They will gladly take your old vacuum cleaners for either disposal or recycling,' says Michael Feazal, CEO of Roof Maxx.

Even if you're not upgrading to a new machine, many brands and online stores will arrange pickups of old vacuums to aid their sustainability programs. Contact brands like Shark, iRobot, Tineco, Bissell and Dreame or, if you bought yours from a retailer like Home Depot, Kohl's, Walmart or QVC, be sure to contact them there instead.

3. Recycling centers and programs

'One effective avenue in my practice as an environmental consultant involves specialized e-waste recycling programs that dismantle or recycle electronic components more efficiently than most recycling centers,' explains Daniel Anderson, electronic waste specialist and CEO of Gorubbishgo.

'These services are very convenient and include pickup options, even for the largest appliances. This ensures that every part of your vacuum cleaner is recycled correctly with minimal environmental impact,' he adds.

Similarly to returning it to the manufacturer, disposing your old vacuum cleaner in this way is one of the most sustainable options available, as you'll be helping those who know how, to recycle as much of the appliance as possible. A quick Google search will reveal local vacuum recycling schemes.

'In my opinion, the most environmentally sound way to dispose of your old vacuum cleaner would be to look for local recycling centers that accept these equipment. This approach ensures that your old pre-loved vacuum cleaner's components, especially the valuable and harmful materials, are meticulously retrieved and recycled rather than carelessly discarded into landfills,' Michael adds.

4. Repurpose or reuse its parts

'If your vacuum cleaner still works, then think creatively: upcycle,' Daniel recommends. 'Instead of sending it to the dump, make something out of it.'

'You might turn the motor in your vacuum into a strong blower for yard work or use parts to build a homemade air purifier. There are many DIY tutorials online that can both inspire and instruct you in re-purposing household appliances into either practical or decorative items.'

Up cycling would take a lot more time (not to mention technical prowess), but the results would be rewarding, and you could recycle any parts you don't use to still be as sustainable as possible.

Next, avoid these vacuum cleaner mistakes for a cleaner home, or consider one of the best vacuums for pet hair.