Last updated April 2026
Remove your old toilet safely with this complete guide — then book Umuve to haul it away.
Quick Answer
Toilet removal is a manageable DIY project for most homeowners. You need: an adjustable wrench, utility knife, rubber gloves, a bucket, and a helper for the lift. The process takes 30-60 minutes. Once removed, the toilet can go to the county transfer station ($30-$60), a curbside bulk pickup (schedule first), or call Umuve for $89 same-day haul-away.
Locate the shut-off valve on the wall behind the toilet and turn it clockwise until fully closed. Flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl. Use a sponge to remove any remaining water from the tank and bowl — this reduces weight and prevents spills.
The braided metal or plastic line connects the shut-off valve to the bottom of the tank. Unscrew the nut at the tank connection by hand or with pliers. Have a towel or small bucket ready for residual water.
Lift the porcelain tank lid off and set it somewhere safe. It is fragile and heavy. If it breaks it becomes a sharp hazard.
Inside the tank near the bottom are two bolts connecting the tank to the bowl. Use a screwdriver and adjustable wrench to remove them. Some are corroded — a penetrating lubricant (WD-40) helps. The tank should lift straight up once the bolts are out.
Lift the plastic caps at the rear of the seat, unscrew the bolts, and remove the seat. This is optional but makes the bowl lighter and easier to carry.
Most toilets are caulked to the floor around the base. Run a utility knife around the entire perimeter to break the caulk seal. This prevents cracking the toilet or tile when lifting.
Pop off the plastic caps at the base of the toilet. Unscrew the nuts with an adjustable wrench. The toilet is now held only by gravity and the wax ring.
Have your helper ready. Grip the bowl firmly at both sides. Rock gently forward and back to break the wax ring seal, then lift straight up. A standard toilet bowl weighs 60-100 lbs. Set it on cardboard or a tarp to avoid scratching the floor.
Immediately stuff a rag or rubber plug into the floor drain opening. Sewer gases are toxic and can fill a room quickly. This is not optional.
Use a putty knife to scrape the old wax ring off the floor flange and discard it in a plastic bag. Wax rings are single-use and must be replaced for any new toilet installation.
Once removed, your toilet can be disposed of through: (1) County curbside bulk pickup — schedule first, most cities accept porcelain fixtures; (2) County C&D transfer station drop-off ($30-$60); (3) Umuve same-day pickup starting at $89. Toilets in working condition can sometimes be donated to Habitat for Humanity ReStore.
If you would rather not deal with the disconnection, the heavy lifting, or the disposal logistics, Umuve handles everything start to finish — same-day, starting at $89. We carry from anywhere in your home, load, haul, and recycle or donate responsibly.
Service available in West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and all of South Florida.
Umuve serves all of South Florida with same-day pickup starting at $89. Licensed, insured, and 92% recycled or donated. No hidden fees.
SMS: (844) 435-6005 • Palm Beach, Broward & Miami-Dade