- 1Back up important data to external storage or cloud
- 2Deauthorize all software licenses (iTunes, Adobe, Microsoft Office)
- 3Sign out of all cloud accounts and disable device tracking
- 4Wipe hard drive completely using secure methods or remove for destruction
- 5Remove batteries from laptops if swollen or easily accessible
- 6Remove personal labels, stickers, and company inventory tags
- 7Keep all components and accessories together for recycling
- Electronics retailers (Best Buy, Staples)
- Manufacturer take-back programs (Dell, HP, Apple)
- Certified e-waste recyclers
- Municipal hazardous waste collection events
- Business IT asset disposition services
CRITICAL: Standard file deletion does NOT remove data - use proper wiping software or physical destruction. Business computers may require certificates of destruction for compliance. Contains lead, mercury, cadmium, and valuable metals requiring certified recycling.
Manufacturing a computer produces 400+ kg of CO2 and uses 1,500+ kg of raw materials. Recycling recovers gold, silver, copper, palladium, and rare earth elements worth $5-30+ per device. E-waste is the fastest growing waste stream globally. Only 20% of computers are properly recycled.
Two critical steps before recycling: properly wiping personal data and recovering valuable components that might otherwise go to waste. These aren't just good practices—they protect your privacy and maximize what you get back from old equipment.
Secure Data Wiping
Deleting files or formatting isn't enough—data remains recoverable. Professional wiping requires bootable software like DBAN that overwrites the entire drive multiple times.
Professional data destruction services charge $20-50 per device. A bootable USB costs less and works for every computer you'll ever recycle.
Component Recovery
Working RAM and CPUs have resale value far beyond their scrap worth. Ten minutes with a screwdriver can turn a $5 recycling payout into $50-100 in component sales.
Most computers need just a basic screwdriver set to open the case and remove components. Business laptops often have access panels that pop off without tools.
Store components in anti-static bags if you're collecting from multiple computers before selling—prevents damage that reduces value.
Note: If you're recycling for convenience rather than value, skip component recovery and focus solely on data wiping. But if you have 3-4 old computers, spending an hour on teardown typically returns $100-200 in sellable parts on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
- Donate working computers to schools or nonprofits
- Refurbish for family/friends
- Part out valuable components for reuse
- Back up important files to external storage or cloud service
- Deauthorize iTunes, Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Office, and other licensed software
- Sign out of all cloud accounts (iCloud, Google, OneDrive, Dropbox)
- Disable Find My Mac/Windows Device Location if enabled
- For HDDs: use DBAN, CCleaner, or built-in secure erase (3+ pass minimum)
- For SSDs: use manufacturer secure erase utility or ATA Secure Erase command
- For maximum security: encrypt drive, wipe, then physically destroy or remove storage
- Reinstall clean OS or use recovery partition to factory reset
- For business/sensitive data: consider professional data destruction services
Accepted
- Desktops, laptops, and all-in-one computers (working or not)
- Servers and workstations
- Tablets and 2-in-1 devices
- With or without chargers, mice, keyboards
- Devices with cracked screens or missing keys
Not Accepted
- Loose or damaged lithium batteries (recycle separately)
- Units contaminated with biological/chemical hazards
- Equipment with government/military classifications (requires special handling)
Estimated value: $0–$300+ depending on age, specs, and condition
Donation
- Goodwill/Dell Reconnect
- PCs for People
- Local schools and nonprofits
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Lead solder on circuit boards
- Mercury in older CCFL‑backlit LCDs
- Brominated flame retardants in plastics
What’s the safest way to wipe my computer?
Back up data, sign out of accounts, then securely erase. Use built‑in reset for Windows/macOS or manufacturer SSD tools. For highly sensitive data, remove and destroy the drive.
Can I donate an older but working computer?
Yes. Many nonprofits accept working devices. Wipe data and include the charger. Very old units may be recycled instead.
Do recyclers charge fees?
Some do for CRTs and business pickups. Many consumer e‑waste events are free.