How to dispose of a kitchen sink depends on what it is made of. Stainless steel and enameled cast iron sinks are metal, so scrap yards and transfer station metal piles usually take them. Composite granite, solid surface, fireclay, and porcelain sinks are not metal and go with construction debris unless a reuse store wants them. Good-condition sinks of any type can find a second home through donation.
Identify the material
| Sink material | How to tell | Best destination |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Lightweight, brushed metal | Scrap metal |
| Enameled cast iron | Very heavy, glossy enamel, magnetic underside | Scrap metal (as iron) |
| Enameled steel | Lighter than cast iron, glossy, magnetic | Scrap metal |
| Composite granite or quartz | Matte stone look, not magnetic | Debris or reuse |
| Fireclay or porcelain | Ceramic, heavy, glossy | Debris or reuse |
| Solid surface | Seamless, plastic-like | Debris or reuse |
| Copper | Reddish or patinated | Scrap; worth more |
A magnet stuck to the underside points to cast iron or steel.
Donate or sell first
Building reuse stores, such as Habitat ReStores, often accept clean sinks without cracks or major chips, especially farmhouse, cast iron, and double-bowl stainless units. Vintage cast iron sinks can sell well online. Include faucets and strainers only if they are in good shape.
Removing a sink
- Turn off the water supply valves and disconnect the faucet lines.
- Remove the drain trap, disposal, and dishwasher connection.
- Cut the caulk or sealant around the rim.
- For undermount sinks, release the clips or brackets while supporting the sink.
Cast iron sinks can weigh 100 pounds or more, so get help lifting.
Scrapping a metal sink
- Remove the faucet, strainer baskets, and any plastic parts if the yard asks.
- Separate brass faucets and copper supply lines; they are worth more than steel.
- Stainless is often accepted as its own grade.
- Cast iron goes in with heavy iron scrap.
Non-metal sinks
Composite, fireclay, porcelain, and solid surface sinks generally go in a construction debris load at a transfer station, landfill, or roll-off dumpster. Some facilities accept clean porcelain with concrete or rubble; ask locally. See how to dispose of construction debris.
Part of a kitchen remodel
Sort the old kitchen into piles: metal (sink, disposal, appliances), wood (cabinets), countertops, and general debris. Separating metal can reduce dump fees and earn a little scrap money. See kitchen cabinets and garbage disposals.
How to dispose of a kitchen sink FAQ
Can I scrap an old kitchen sink?
Stainless steel, enameled steel, cast iron, and copper sinks are usually accepted at scrap yards.
Is a cast iron sink worth anything?
It is usually accepted as heavy iron scrap, and vintage cast iron sinks may sell to collectors or reuse stores.
Where do composite granite sinks go?
Usually in construction debris, unless a reuse store accepts it.
Will Habitat ReStore take a used sink?
Many ReStores accept clean sinks in good condition. Call your local store.
How heavy is a cast iron sink?
Many weigh 100 pounds or more, so plan for help.
The bottom line
How to dispose of a kitchen sink: donate or sell good ones, scrap stainless, steel, cast iron, and copper sinks at a scrap yard, and put composite, fireclay, and porcelain sinks in remodel debris. Pull brass faucets and copper lines first, and get help lifting cast iron.
Guides and tools
Appliance disposal guide · Dump cost calculator · All material guides