Why Electronics Require Special Handling
Electronics contain materials that cannot go in standard landfills: lead, mercury, cadmium, and other hazardous components. Most states have e-waste disposal regulations. Beyond environmental compliance, old electronics that contain personal data require secure wiping before disposal.
Your Electronics Disposal Options
- Certified e-waste recyclers: The most responsible option. Certified recyclers (R2 or e-Stewards certified) process electronics properly and provide documentation. Earth911.com has a search tool for certified facilities near you.
- Retailer take-back programs: Best Buy, Staples, and some other retailers accept a range of electronics for recycling -- typically free for items under a certain size. Best Buy accepts TVs, computers, phones, and most small electronics.
- Manufacturer take-back: Apple, Dell, HP, and most major manufacturers have take-back or recycling programs, sometimes free when purchasing a replacement.
- Junk removal: Full-service junk removal companies accept most electronics. Reputable companies route e-waste to certified recyclers. Expect a small recycling fee for items like TVs. Convenient for bulk electronics cleanouts.
- Donation: Working computers, phones, and tablets can be donated to nonprofits like World Computer Exchange or local schools and community organizations. Wipe data before donating.
Data Security Before Disposal
Before getting rid of any device that stored personal information -- computers, phones, tablets, printers with memory -- wipe the data. Factory reset phones and tablets. For computers, use a secure data wiping tool (DBAN is free) or physically destroy the hard drive. Do not assume a factory reset fully wipes a computer's drive without additional steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of old electronics for free?
Best Buy accepts most electronics for free recycling in-store. Many manufacturer take-back programs are also free. Municipal HHW events often include electronics. Retailer take-back is usually the most convenient free option.
Can junk removal take old TVs?
Yes. Most junk removal companies accept TVs and other electronics. Expect a small recycling fee -- typically $25-$50 for a TV -- since e-waste has disposal costs that standard landfills do not accept.
What should I do with an old computer before throwing it away?
Wipe the hard drive before disposal. For Windows computers, use DBAN (free) to securely erase the drive. For Macs, use the built-in Erase feature in Recovery Mode. For older computers you cannot wipe, physically remove and destroy the hard drive before recycling the rest.