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1. What do I do with old appliances?

There are several options for dealing with your old appliances (such as washing / drying machines, stoves, and dishwashers):

• Look up a recycling option using Find a Recycler.
• Call your hauler for information about curbside pick-up (additional fees will apply).
• Haul the appliance yourself to a nearby recycling center.

Appliances containing coolant (refrigerators and air conditioners) may accrue additional fees for coolant removal.

To find a recycling facility near you, visit Metro’s Find a Recycler or call Beaverton’s Solid Waste and Recycling Program 503-526-2665 for more information.

2. How do I dispose of toasters and other small appliances?

If the appliance is in usable condition, you can donate them to a local thrift store for resale. You can receive a tax deductible receipt for your donation.

If the item is not usable, visit Metro’s Find a Recycler website to find local recycling options.

Call Beaverton’s Recycling Program 503-526-2665 if you have questions.

3. How do I get rid of unwanted mattresses?

If the mattress is in usable condition without stains or tears, consider donating it to a local thrift store. If the mattress is not in usable condition you can arrange with your hauler for curbside pickup for an additional fee. Or you can haul it to a local transfer station for disposal

4. How do I know if something is hazardous waste?

Hazardous waste is a waste with properties that make it dangerous or potentially harmful to human health or the environment. Examples of materials include cleaners, pesticides, leftover paint, solvents, automotive fluids, and propane tanks. Hazardous wastes can be liquids, solids, contained gases, or sludge.

Look for the signal words danger, warning and caution. See our Hazardous Waste page for more information about disposal options or call Metro’s Recycling Information Center at 503-234-3000 for more information.

5. What do I do with propane canisters?

Pressurized propane canisters (both 20-pound grill and 16-ounce camping sizes) need to be processed as hazardous waste due to their explosive nature. Canisters can be taken to Metro's Central Hazardous Waste Depot and at scheduled Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events in the region. Staff will empty the canister and recycle it when possible.

6. Where can I recycle electronic equipment?

Many electronic components such as computers, monitors, and stereos contain lead, heavy metals, and other toxic materials. On January 1, 2010, the State of Oregon banned computers, monitors, and televisions from landfills. All of these items must be recycled. Fortunately, we have Oregon E-Cycles which makes recycling these items easy and FREE. Visit our electronics page for more information on the Oregon E-Cycles program and what equipment is covered.

To find a recycler for your electronics visit Metro's Find a Recycler.

7. What do I do with used batteries?

According to Battery Council International, a typical new battery contains anywhere from 60-80% recycled plastic and lead, reducing the overall consumption of raw materials that would be required otherwise.

Learn more information about disposing of used batteries.

8. How do I dispose of tires?

Whole tires are banned from landfill disposal and must be disposed of properly. Tires can be picked up by your garbage hauler (for a fee) or they may be taken to a transfer station or landfill for recycling (for a fee). To find a recycler near you, visit Metro’s Find a Recycler or call Beaverton’s Solid Waste and Recycling Program at 503-526-2665.

9. What can I do with used oil filters?

Oil filters can be disposed of at Metro's Central Hazardous Waste Depot, Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events or they can be thrown away in your garbage. It is best to place them in a plastic bag to prevent leakage.

10. What can I do with fluorescent tubes / bulbs?

Due to their mercury content, residents are encouraged to recycle fluorescent lights and compact fluorescent tubes using local recyclers. Call Metro’s Recycling Information Center at 503-234-3000 for details.