What are White Goods and Scrap Metal?

White goods are large household appliances like refrigerators, ovens, washing machines, and dryers. These appliances were traditionally manufactured with a white finish, but today they come in many colors. Not sure if your item qualifies for recycling? Email us at recycling@baltimorecity.gov for confirmation.

Scrap metal refers to unwanted or leftover metal from various sources, including old tools, car parts, aluminum cans, and construction materials. Instead of discarding these items, they can be recycled and repurposed into new products, reducing waste and conserving valuable resources

Two workers are loading a large white refrigerator onto a moving truck filled with various household items, including furniture and boxes. The setting is an outdoor area with a fence and a residential neighborhood in the background. One worker is wearing a black jacket and mask, while the other is dressed in a dark blue polo shirt and blue pants. A traffic cone and moving equipment are visible near the truck.

Why Recycle White Goods and Scrap Metal?

Recycling these materials has important benefits:

  • Conserves valuable resources – Metals can be reused instead of mining new materials.
  • Protects the environment – Some appliances contain chemicals that can be hazardous if not disposed of properly.
  • Reduces landfill waste – Large appliances take up significant space in landfills, contributing to pollution.
A large pile of scrap metal beams and steel parts, some rusted and others painted blue, stacked haphazardly at a recycling or salvage yard. The metal pieces vary in size and shape, with hollow rectangular and I-beam structures visible. Sunlight reflects off the metallic surfaces, highlighting the worn textures and edges.

How Does Recycling Help?

When recycled, these items are processed to extract reusable materials. For example, metal from an old washing machine can be transformed into new steel products, cutting down on energy use and preserving natural resources.

How to Recycle White Goods and Scrap Metal in Baltimore

Baltimore City residents have two options for proper disposal:

  1. Drop Off at a Residential Recycling Center – Bring white goods and scrap metal to a designated recycling center near you.
  2. Schedule a Bulk Collection – Call 311 to arrange a curbside bulk pickup. Items must be placed in the same location where your regular trash and recycling are collected.

What Items Are Accepted?

  • Appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, stoves, ovens, dishwashers, air conditioners, and grills
  • Household Fixtures: Water heaters, light fixtures (without bulbs), stainless steel sinks
  • Metal Items: Metal fences, scrap metal from tools or construction

For questions about recycling eligibility, contact recycling@baltimorecity.gov.