Old electronics tend to pile up quickly, and it’s easy to forget about them once they stop working. But holding onto outdated devices isn’t just clutter—it can harm the environment if they’re thrown away incorrectly.
You should recycle certain electronics now because they contain valuable materials that can be reused while keeping harmful substances out of landfills. Knowing which items to recycle helps you make smarter choices for both your space and the planet.
Old smartphones
You probably have a drawer full of old smartphones gathering dust. Instead of letting them sit there, recycling those phones is a smart move.
Old smartphones contain valuable materials like gold and copper, which can be recovered and reused. Plus, recycling helps keep harmful chemicals out of landfills.
If your phone still works, consider trade-in or resale options. Otherwise, take it to a certified recycler or a retailer that accepts electronics. It’s an easy way to clear clutter responsibly.
Laptops and notebooks
If you have old laptops or notebooks lying around, it’s a good idea to recycle them. These devices contain valuable materials that can be reused, plus some parts need special handling to avoid environmental harm.
Before recycling, make sure to delete all your personal data. Removing batteries separately is important since they often require special recycling because of their chemical makeup.
Many places accept laptops for recycling, including manufacturer take-back programs and local e-waste centers. Donating or upgrading may be an option too if your device still works.
Tablet devices
If you have an old tablet collecting dust, it’s a good idea to recycle it. Tablets can contain harmful materials, so tossing them in the trash isn’t the best choice.
Before you recycle, make sure to wipe your data clean to protect your privacy. You can often donate working tablets or trade them in, but broken ones should be recycled properly.
Check with local stores or manufacturers—they often have programs to take back old devices. This helps keep tech out of landfills and supports reuse.
CRT and flat-screen TVs
If you have an old CRT or flat-screen TV, it’s best not to just toss it out. These TVs contain materials that can harm the environment if not handled properly.
You can recycle them at local drop-off sites or electronics stores. Some places even offer take-back programs to make it easier for you.
Recycling helps recover valuable parts and keeps toxic substances out of landfills. So before you upgrade, find a safe way to recycle your TV.
Desktop computers
If you have an old desktop computer lying around, it’s a good idea to recycle it instead of tossing it in the trash. These machines contain valuable materials but also some hazardous components.
Before recycling, make sure to erase all your personal data. Many stores and manufacturers offer take-back programs where you can drop off your desktop safely.
Recycling desktops helps keep harmful substances out of landfills and allows valuable parts to be reused. It’s an easy way to clear space and do something good for the environment.
E-readers like Kindle
If you have an old Kindle or any e-reader gathering dust, recycling it is a smart move. These devices contain valuable materials and batteries that shouldn’t end up in the landfill.
You can trade them in, donate, or use recycling programs from retailers like Amazon or Best Buy. Dropping off your device at designated e-waste centers ensures they’re properly handled and won’t harm the environment.
It’s easy to find recycling options nearby, so do your part by responsibly disposing of your old e-reader.
Game consoles
If you have old game consoles lying around, recycling them is a smart move. These devices contain materials that can harm the environment if thrown in the trash.
You can find local e-waste drop-off sites or events to recycle your consoles safely.
Before recycling, remove any batteries and accessories. If your console still works, consider donating it to schools or charities instead. This helps reduce waste and supports others.
DVD and Blu-ray players
If you have old DVD or Blu-ray players lying around, recycling them is a smart idea. These devices contain materials that can be reused, so tossing them in the trash isn’t the best choice.
Before you recycle, make sure to remove any personal data and clean the device. You can drop them off at local e-waste centers or use mail-in programs if you prefer.
Some recycling services even offer pickup options, making it easier to get rid of your old players responsibly.
Ink and toner cartridges
If you have old ink or toner cartridges lying around, recycling them is a smart move. These cartridges contain plastic, metal, and leftover ink or toner that shouldn’t just be tossed in the trash.
Many places, like office supply stores or manufacturers, offer free recycling programs. You can even earn points or rewards by recycling through some programs. Just check online or at your local store to find convenient drop-off spots.
Avoid putting cartridges in regular recycling bins because they need special handling to prevent environmental harm.
Digital cameras
If you have old digital cameras lying around, don’t just stash them away. Recycling them helps keep harmful materials out of landfills and recovers valuable parts like metals and plastics.
Many places accept cameras for recycling, including electronic waste centers and manufacturer take-back programs. You can also donate working cameras to extend their life.
Recycling is simple and eco-friendly, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to find a recycling option near you. Your old gear can make a difference when disposed of properly.
MP3 players and iPods
If you have an old iPod or MP3 player lying around, it’s a good idea to recycle it instead of tossing it in the trash. These devices contain materials that can be reused, cutting down on waste.
You can drop them off at places like Apple stores or Best Buy, which have recycling programs for electronics. If your device still works, consider donating it to someone who might use it.
Recycling helps keep harmful materials out of landfills and supports resource recovery, so it’s a simple step that makes a difference.
Wearable tech like smartwatches
If you have old smartwatches or fitness trackers lying around, consider recycling them. These devices contain metals and chemicals that can harm the environment if thrown away improperly.
You can check if the manufacturer has a take-back program or drop them off at an e-waste collection center near you. Some electronics stores also accept wearable tech for recycling.
Keeping your old wearables out of landfills helps reduce toxic waste and supports a healthier planet. Plus, some programs even donate working devices to people who need them.
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As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
