RecycleFind Logo
RecycleFind

How to Recycle Electronics

Americans dump 300-400 million electronics yearly. Less than 20% recycled. E-waste is 2% of trash but 70% of toxic waste. Find e-waste recycling centers and safe disposal methods.

15 electronics materials found

Smartphones
Mobile phones containing valuable metals and potentially hazardous materials. Smartphones contain over 60 different elements, including precious metals worth $10+ per device, making them highly valuable for recycling.
Learn more
Computers
Desktop and laptop computers with valuable components and hazardous materials. Computers contain over 60 different materials including precious metals, rare earth elements, and toxic substances requiring proper recycling.
Learn more
CRT Monitors/TVs
Old tube-style monitors and televisions containing lead and other hazardous materials.
Learn more
Flat Screen TVs
LCD, LED, and plasma televisions.
Learn more
Printers
Inkjet, laser, and other computer printers.
Learn more
Gaming Consoles
Video game consoles and handheld gaming devices.
Learn more
Tablets
iPad, Android tablets, and other touchscreen devices.
Learn more
Keyboards and Mice
Computer keyboards, mice, and other input devices.
Learn more
Cables and Cords
Power cords, USB cables, HDMI cables, and other electronic cables.
Learn more
Speakers
Computer speakers, home stereo speakers, and portable speakers.
Learn more
DVD/Blu-ray Players
DVD players, Blu-ray players, and other disc-based media players.
Learn more
Digital Cameras
Digital cameras, camcorders, and photography equipment.
Learn more
Headphones
Wired and wireless headphones, earbuds, and audio accessories.
Learn more
Power Adapters
AC adapters, chargers, and power supplies for electronic devices.
Learn more
Hard Drives
Internal and external hard disk drives from computers.
Learn more

Find Electronics Recycling Centers Near You

Ready to recycle your electronics materials? Use our search tool to find nearby recycling centers that accept these items.

Find Centers Near MeSearch Electronics Centers

Electronics Recycling FAQ

Can I throw electronics in the regular trash?

No! Electronics contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium that can contaminate soil and groundwater. Most states have laws prohibiting e-waste in landfills. Always take electronics to certified e-waste recyclers or manufacturer take-back programs.

How do I protect my data before recycling electronics?

Always perform a factory reset and remove all personal data before recycling. For computers and phones, use data wiping software that meets DOD standards. Remove SIM cards and memory cards. For extra security, physically destroy hard drives or use certified data destruction services.

Are old electronics worth money?

Yes! Electronics contain valuable materials including gold, silver, copper, and rare earth metals. Smartphones can contain $1-2 of recoverable materials. Computer circuit boards have even more. Many recyclers pay for large quantities, and some manufacturers offer trade-in credits.

What happens to recycled electronics?

Certified e-waste recyclers manually dismantle devices to separate plastics, metals, glass, and circuit boards. Valuable materials are extracted and refined for reuse in new products. Hazardous components like batteries and mercury switches are safely disposed of. About 95% of electronics by weight can be recovered and reused.

Can I recycle broken or damaged electronics?

Absolutely! Recyclers accept electronics in any condition - broken screens, water damage, or non-functional devices. The recycling process focuses on material recovery, not functionality. Even completely broken electronics contain valuable recoverable materials.

Where can I recycle small electronics like cables and chargers?

Many electronics retailers (Best Buy, Staples) have drop-off bins for cables, chargers, and small electronics. Municipal e-waste collection events also accept these items. Check if your local recycling center has an e-waste drop-off area. Never throw cables in regular recycling - they contain copper and should go to e-waste facilities.