How To Properly Dispose Of Laminate Countertops During A Kitchen Reno

With an abundance of ideas for your next kitchen remodel, you might be wondering how to dispose of your dated laminate countertops. Countertops of any kind are a common item you should avoid putting in your trash can, but you do have some options. You can check with your trash company to see if they offer options for bulky pickups, contact your local dump or landfill, or rent a dumpster for removal. Additionally, if your laminate countertops are in good condition, you can contact your local Habitat For Humanity ReStore to offer a donation. You can also try to make a little bit of money by selling them on online marketplaces, but be aware that countertops in excellent condition or those with unique designs generally sell better this way.

The removal method that is best for you ultimately comes down to ease, cost, and time. For example, renting a dumpster may be the quickest way to remove the countertops from your property, but it could be the most costly; donating the countertops can help others but could pose a transportation problem. Let's explore the pros and cons of each removal method to determine which is best for you.

Depending on your vehicle access and how large your countertops are, you've got varied options. Many cities' trash services schedule periodic "large item pickups," the dates for which can usually be found on your city's website. If this isn't an option, some offer "bulk item" pickups for a fee. You can likely schedule the service online with the city's contracted waste management company; take note of how to prepare for the pickup properly and how the fee will be charged. 

You can also contact your local landfill to see if they will accept laminate countertops. You'll need to transport them to the landfill and pay the appropriate fee, then unload them in the designated spot. Alternatively, you can rent a dumpster. This isn't the most cost-effective option if you're only disposing of countertops, but it's a great way to get rid of other construction materials if you're doing a larger kitchen upgrade. The cost will vary depending on the size of the dumpster and how many days you'll need it, so make sure to budget appropriately.

If your countertops are in great condition when you remove them, you can contact your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore — which, incidentally, is a great place to find budget-friendly countertops — to donate them. While you may need to arrange transportation, many locations offer a pickup service for a small fee. Finally, if your countertops are in excellent condition with a unique pattern, consider putting them up for sale on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist to make some extra cash.