When a loved one no longer needs their Stair Lift — whether due to moving into assisted living or after passing — families are often left wondering what to do next. It’s a question we hear often at Access Elevator, and it’s one worth discussing, because not every stair lift needs to end up in the scrap pile.
Understanding Your Options
Before deciding what to do with your stair lift, it’s important to identify what kind you have. The most common type is a Straight Stair Lift, which runs in a single line up and down the stairs. These models are typically easier to remove, reuse, or resell. Curved Stair Lifts, on the other hand, are custom-built to fit a specific staircase — making them much harder to repurpose.
Once you know the type, here are your best options:
1. Buyback Programs
Many accessibility companies, including Access Elevator, offer buyback programs for straight stair lifts.
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If you purchased your stair lift through us, you may qualify for a higher buyback price.
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If you didn’t buy from us but your model is one we work with, we may still be able to buy it and repurpose it for another family.
If your lift was purchased through another company like Acorn, contact them directly to ask about their buyback or trade-in options.
2. Donate and Make a Difference
If your stair lift is still in good condition, donating it can make a big difference in someone’s life. Organizations such as the ALS Foundation and Habitat for Humanity often accept straight stair lifts for reuse or parts. These donations help individuals and families who otherwise couldn’t afford a new system.
3. Professional Removal and Recycling
If your lift isn’t eligible for buyback or donation, professional removal is the next step. Access works with partners like Junkluggers to ensure old stair lifts are safely removed and properly recycled — keeping heavy metal components out of landfills and ensuring safe disposal.
Avoid Selling Online
It might be tempting to list your stair lift on eBay or a local marketplace, but this can lead to serious liability issues. If someone installs the lift incorrectly and gets hurt, the original seller can be held responsible. It’s simply not worth the risk.
4. Need Help Deciding? We Can Help.
If you’re unsure what type of stair lift you have or what your best option might be, our team is happy to assist.
You can upload a photo of your stair lift directly to our website, and we’ll help identify the model and recommend the safest next step.
Get A Quote to get started.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a stair lift after it’s no longer needed can feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time. But you’re not alone — there are responsible, safe, and even charitable ways to handle the process. Whether through buyback, donation, or recycling, every stair lift has a path forward that can continue helping others and protecting the environment.