What to Do With Old Electronics
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A Complete Guide to Electronics Disposal
With technology advancing at a rapid rate, electronic waste, or e-waste, is at an all-time high. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, 62 million tons of e-waste were produced in 2022. That number is sure to climb as we accumulate more devices. In 2023, U.S. households had an average of 21 devices. However, if you aren’t getting rid of your electronics properly, there are hazardous materials that could be introduced into the environment such as beryllium, lead and mercury. Additionally, e-waste contains materials that can be recycled such as nickel and zinc.
From donation to disposal, check out the choices below to see what the best e-waste disposal option is for you.
Tossing a Specific Item?
Choose an electronic below to learn how to safely and easily toss it.
 Televisions |
 Computers & Accessories |
 Cellphones & Tablets |
Electronics Disposal FAQs
Is it illegal to throw away electronics?
At least 19 states — and Washington, D.C. — have banned e-waste from landfills. In those places, it is illegal to throw away e-waste. Other states may still consider electronics to be hazardous waste and strongly caution against sending them to landfills.
Can you put electronics in a dumpster?
You typically can’t put electronics in dumpsters because many electronics are considered e-waste and harmful to the environment if disposed of improperly. Some areas may allow certain electronics in a dumpster. It’s important to check with your local municipality’s regulations on e-waste.
What electronics can be thrown away?
Any electronic device can be thrown away if your local government allows it. If e-waste is banned in your state, consider recycling your device or taking it to a hazardous waste collection event.
Can you throw an old TV in a dumpster?
No, in most areas it’s illegal to throw an old TV in a dumpster. The best way to dispose of your old TV is to recycle or donate it.
Where can I throw away old electronics?
There are many ways to dispose of electronics. Consider one of the following options: recycle, donate, hazardous waste collection events, sell, curbside pickup or rent a dumpster.
What happens to discarded electronic devices?
Electronic devices in landfills will not naturally decompose. Additionally, they may leak hazardous substances into the environment if they are not properly disposed of. When electronics are recycled, they are typically disassembled, sorted by material and then the materials are prepared to be reused. If the electronic is in good condition, it may be refurbished and resold.
1. Sell
If your devices still work, you could try selling them for some extra money. The list below is a great place to start when looking for ways to sell your electronics.
2. Donate
Donating electronics in working condition not only keeps them out of landfills, but it can make a difference for someone in need. Contact your local charity, homeless shelter or other non-profit organization to see if they are accepting donations. Otherwise, consider these national donation centers:
3. Recycle
Another way to get rid of electronics is recycling. E-waste usually contains metal and other reusable materials, so recycling electronic waste is one of the more environmentally-friendly options available. However, only 22.3% of e-waste was recycled was recycled in 2022. Many electronic stores have a recycling program that could include a store credit incentive. Check out the list below to see some of the e-waste recycling options available.
4. Collection Locations and Events
Electronics may be considered hazardous waste in your city or state because they contain materials like mercury. In fact, 19 states — as well as Washington, D.C. — already have banned e-waste from landfills. As a result, many cities have designated specific e-waste collection locations as well as special e-waste collection days throughout the year. Call or visit the website of your local government to find where to drop off electronics at upcoming collection events, and ask about these standard regulations that often apply:
- Are there fees involved?
- Is an appointment required?
- Is there a limit to how much you can drop off?
5. Curbside Collection
If your city offers bulky item pickup, electronics may be something you can toss curbside. However, keep in mind that each city has its own rules and regulations when it comes to what items are accepted. Before taking your e-waste to the curb, call or visit the website of your local government to make sure they’ll accept your old electronics and to ask if some of these common restrictions apply:
- Appointment or prior approval needed for pickup.
- Extra fees for electronics removal with regular trash.
- Limits on the number of electronic items left curbside.
6. Hire a Junk Removal Service
A junk hauling company may be a good option to get rid of your e-waste, but it really depends on the amount you have to toss. Some junk removal services will offer individual item pricing, but it is more common to find pricing based on how much space your items take up in their truck — often with a minimum price that covers 1/8th of a truck. If a junk removal service seems like the right option for you, keep in mind it typically involves:
- Presorting of items before the company arrives.
- Rates that may include paying for space you don’t use.
- Team members entering your home to remove the electronics.
Before hiring a junk removal service, check with them to make sure they can take e-waste and that they dispose of it properly.
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How to Secure Your Data Before Disposal
Whether you’re throwing out a computer, cell phone or television, you should take steps to ensure that your personal information is kept safe. If you opt to use a professional service, the EPA recommends using a company with either R2 or e-Stewards certification. If you want to secure your devices yourself, follow these steps to eliminate your data.
Create Backups
If you don’t already have your data backed up, now’s the time to do it. The most common options are to use an external hard drive or one of the various cloud storage options. However, if you already have a replacement, you can also do a direct data transfer to the new device.
Remove Memory Cards
Many smaller devices such as phones or tablets offer expandable memory via SD or PCMCIA cards. These cards often become the default saving spot for files like videos and photos. Be sure to check and remove your memory card before getting rid of your device.
Reset Settings
Nearly all electronic devices can be reset to factory settings. How to do it, though, can be different for each device. Some devices have a physical button you must hold in for a specific time, while others involve a combination of keys. Consult your user manual to see how to reset your device before disposal.
Can I Throw a TV In a Dumpster?
No, you can’t throw a TV in a dumpster. The best way to throw out an old TV is to recycle, donate or bring it to an e-waste collection site.
Did You Know: Tube televisions are one of the hardest electronic devices to throw away because they contain hazardous materials like mercury and lead. The best way to toss these TVs is a hazardous waste collection event.
Old TV Disposal Options
Curbside Trash Pickup
Electronics are usually only collected on bulk pickup day and extra fees may apply. Some cities no longer take certain items, so call to see if your e-waste is accepted.
Local Collection Events and Locations
Many states consider e-waste hazardous. If that’s your situation, you can take your television to a collection event or local collection site. Call ahead to find out details and any fees that apply.
Other Ways to Get Rid of a TV
Can I Sell My TV?
Maybe you got lucky and won a new TV in a raffle or someone gave you one as a gift. Whatever the reason, if your old one is still works, there’s no reason to pitch it if you can get something for it.
Wherever you decide to sell your old TV, make sure you present the buyer with as much information as you can to avoid any issues. Things to include are:
- Age
- Make and model
- Special features
- Issues or damage
- Photos that give a 360-degree view
Can I Donate My Television?
Donation is a great alternate option from throwing out a TV, but also a fantastic way to give back to your community and those in need. As long as your television is in good condition and not too outdated, most organizations will accept it. However, be sure to contact your local charity before bringing your TV in to make sure it meets their requirements.
What Do I Do With a Broken TV?
The best way to get rid of a broken TV is to donate or recycle it.
Can I Recycle My TV?
If you can’t donate or sell your old television, the most environmentally-friendly disposal option is often to recycle it. Some electronics recycling centers even offer cash for the metals they contain. You can use online resources like RecyclerFinder to find a recycling center near you.
If you can’t find a location in your area, many electronics companies have takeback or buyback programs. Additionally, brands like LG, Vizio, Samsung, Sony and others have drop-off locations where they ensure that your TV will be collected and properly recycled — with some even offering credit for a future purchase as added incentive.
How to Dispose of Old Computers and Accessories
You can dispose of old computers and accessories at local e-waste collection sites, a recycling facility or a donation center.
Where Can I Throw Away an Old Computer?
Curbside Trash Pickup
In most locations, electronics are only collected on bulk pickup day, and extra fees may apply. Call ahead to see if electronics are accepted.
Local Collection Events and Locations
Your state may classify e-waste as hazardous, making collection events an option for computer disposal. Many areas also have local e-waste collection sites for proper disposal. Be sure to call ahead to ask for details.
Other Ways to Get Rid of a Computer
Can I Sell My Computer?
Selling your old laptop is a great way to get rid of your device while making a bit of money, whether you're a college student looking for an affordable laptop or a parent replacing the old family computer. Be upfront about the computer’s condition, including the age of the device, operating software and any past virus issues you have had.
Keep in Mind: Always back up and delete any personal data before you sell your device to a stranger.
Can I Recycle My Computer?
While recycling is an environmentally-sound option when it comes to electronics, it all comes down to the age of the computer, which contains plenty of metals that can be salvaged and reused. However, older models contain a lot of hazardous materials that are dangerous to dispose of. Reach out to a nearby e-waste recycling facility to find out if your computer is safe to recycle.
Fun Fact: According to the EPA, recycling 1 million laptops would save energy equivalent to the electricity used by 3,500+ U.S. homes in a year.
Can I Donate My Computer?
People often upgrade their computer equipment even though their older models still work, and some non-profits would be happy to have them, provided they are not too outdated. Additionally, many schools embrace technology and integrate computer use as an essential part of education. Consider calling your local and neighboring school districts to see if they are in need of your old computer.
If your local options don’t pan out, consider some of these national nonprofits to donate your computer:
How Do I Dispose of Specific Computer Parts?
Laptops
When it’s time to get rid of your old laptop, follow these steps to make sure you protect your data and dispose of your device in the best way for you:
- Deactivate or deauthorize any subscription services that can only be used on a specific number of devices.
- Back up your info, then clear personal data by resetting your laptop to factory settings.
- Remove anything that might be in a slot, USB port, HDMI dock or any other attachment method.
- See if the laptop manufacturer offers any sort of buyback or trade-in program.
- Consider donation, selling or recycling.
- Take to a hazardous waste collection or dispose of your old laptop in an environmentally friendly way.
Monitors
When your old monitor runs its course and you’re ready to get rid of it, follow these steps:
- Remove anything that might be in a USB port, HDMI dock or any other slot.
- Check if the manufacturer has a buyback or trade-in program.
- Consider donation, selling or recycling.
- Take to a hazardous waste collection or throw out in an environmentally friendly way.
Printers
Properly disposing of your old printer is very important due to the materials contained within, which are both hazardous and reusable. When it’s time to get rid of it, follow these steps on how to dispose of an old printer:
- Remove any wires, cords or external memory cards.
- Take ink cartridges out and dispose of them at a hazardous waste collection event. Call ahead for details like potential fees.
- See if the manufacturer has a trade-in program.
- Consider donating, selling or recycling.
- Take the printer to a hazardous waste collection event.
Accessories
Items like keyboards, HDMI cables, VGA cables, fiber optics, mouses and other accessories all contain recyclable materials. Most electronics dealers will accept accessories for free, with some offering store credit. Otherwise, take them to a local hazardous waste collection event so that they can be properly disposed of.
Can You Throw Away a Phone or Tablet?
The best disposal options for tablets and cellphones are recycling, donating or bringing to a local e-waste collection site.
Tablet and Cellphone Disposal Options
Curbside Trash Pickup
Phones and tablets are not considered bulk items like other e-waste. Check with your government to see if electronics are allowed in your curbside trash.
Local Collection Events and Locations
Hazardous waste collection events or local e-waste collection sites are often the best places to get rid of your devices if your state considers e-waste hazardous. Call ahead to find out details.
Other Ways to Get Rid of Phones and Tablets
Can I Sell My Phone or Tablet?
Secondhand phone and tablet sales are more common than you might think. However, there are some factors you should know before you put your old device on the market.
- Some SIM cards are specific to a carrier. If your SIM card is carrier-specific, let the buyer know so they can either get a new SIM card or consider switching to that network.
- In addition to providing the make and model of your phone or tablet, it’s a good idea to share what generation phone you have. Newer generations sometimes have different features.
- Be honest if your device is a refurbished product. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, but some people may prefer a non-repaired phone or tablet.
Can I Donate My Phone or Tablet?
If it still works, donating your device might be the best option to keep it out of the landfill. Start by contacting charities or donation centers in your area to find out if they are currently in need of your device. Also let the nonprofit know the model of phone or tablet you’re hoping to donate, as smart devices quickly become out of date and the donation center may not accept it because it’s too old.
Pro-Tip: It’s not required, but consider donating your charger with your phone or tablet. It’s one less thing the donation center has to figure out as they try and match your device with a new home.
Can I Recycle My Phone?
Recycling your old phone is a great option to keep materials out of a landfill that could have been reused. Phones contain metals such as copper, silver, gold and palladium — all of which can be recycled. Additionally, parts of your phone, such as the screen or battery, can be removed and reused to refurbish another phone, further keeping materials out of landfills.
Many retailers like Best Buy, T-Mobile and Verizon have recycling programs and offer a store credit. Otherwise, finding a nearby ecoATM will help you get your phone to a certified e-waste recycler.
More Disposal Resources
Looking for some other tips on e-waste recycling, dumpster rentals and other disposal needs? Check out the advice in some of our blog posts, resources and disposal guides.
Disposal Guides:
Dumpster Resources: