We originally published this post last year in 2025, and even with all the buzz around AI since then, most of our everyday hardware realities remain the same. The guidance still feels useful, so we’re sharing it again. Below, you’ll find practical ways to reduce electronic waste and resources for where to safely recycle or drop off old devices.
Reduce Your E-Waste and Start Fresh
It’s a new year, and with it comes resolutions to be a better, more organized, and mindful version of yourself. One way to positively impact the planet and your living space is by tackling the growing pile of unused electronics sitting in your home. From outdated gadgets to old charging cables, reducing electronic waste (e-waste) can be a systematic, fulfilling practice that benefits both you and the environment. Here's how to do it and where to take those electronics for proper disposal.
Steps to Systematically Reduce Your E-Waste
Take Inventory of Your Electronics
Start by gathering all unused electronics into one place. This includes:
Old smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
• Worn-out headphones or earbuds.
• Broken cords, chargers, and adapters.
• Appliances like toasters or coffee makers no longer in use.
Pro Tip: Categorize them into three piles: Working but Unused, Broken, and Uncertain Condition to make the next steps easier.
Repurpose What You Can
Before deciding to dispose of electronics, consider ways to repurpose them:
• Turn an old smartphone into a dedicated music player, e-book reader, or security camera.
• Use outdated laptops for kids’ learning activities or donate them if still functional.
• Upcycle cords and adapters for craft or organization projects.
A Note on Data Security
Before recycling, reselling, or donating, ensure your data is wiped from all devices. Reset smartphones, laptops, and tablets to factory settings, and consider using data-erasure software for hard drives. For items that are truly at the end of their lifespan, proper recycling is crucial. Tossing electronics in the trash is hazardous, as they often contain toxic materials like lead or mercury.
Resell or Donate Functional Electronics
Functional electronics that you no longer need can find new homes. Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace are great for reselling gadgets. Alternatively, donate devices to organizations like and there’s more to the list, scroll down to view.
[UPDATED] Goodwill still accepts electronics for donation and recycling, often through the Dell Reconnect program, which partners with Goodwill locations for free e-waste recycling of computers and related equipment. A newer expansion of Dell Reconnect also adds some Salvation Army locations as drop-off points in select markets.
Computers with Causes This nonprofit continues to accept donated computers, laptops, tablets, servers, and related equipment and will refurbish what it can for individuals or organizations in need, with unusable items responsibly recycled as part of its “zero-waste” mission.
[UPDATED] Call2Recycle remains a major battery and cellphone recycling network that offers free drop-off for rechargeable batteries (up to ~11 lbs) and cell phones at participating retail and community locations. It does not accept wet-cell or automotive batteries at most drop-off points, and single-use batteries may only be accepted at some partners or via special programs.
E-Waste Drop-Off Programs and Locations [UPDATED]
Here are some nationwide programs and resources to help you responsibly dispose of your e-waste:
Best Buy Recycling Program
Best Buy still recycles a broad range of electronics at most stores. In many areas they accept electronics for recycling free of charge (with some limits on TVs/monitors and possible fees in certain states), and their trade-in program offers gift cards for items of value.
Staples Free Tech Recycling
Staples continues to accept office electronics such as printers, computers, phones, and more for free recycling, even if you didn’t buy them there.
Local Government E-Waste Drop-Off Events
Many cities organize e-waste collection events where you can drop off electronics for free. Check your local municipality’s website for schedules.
Earth911 Recycling Locator
Earth911.com remains a useful tool to search by ZIP code for nearby e-waste drop-off points, recycling events, household hazardous waste sites, and more.
Manufacturer Programs
Apple: You can trade in old Apple devices for store credit or recycle them for free via Apple’s mail-in or in-store recycling.
Samsung: Many Samsung stores or repair partners accept Samsung devices for recycling, and authorized shops like uBreakiFix also help recycle a variety of tech.
Dell Reconnect: Partners with Goodwill (and limited Salvation Army locations) to accept any brand of computers/accessories for free recycling or reuse.
Charity-Based Recycling
World Computer Exchange: This nonprofit continues to collect and redistribute tested used computers to schools and community organizations in developing countries, promoting reuse before recycling.
Recycle My Cell (Canada and US): Still active — accepts old mobile phones (and in some cases accessories) for donation, refurbishment, or recycling across both countries.
We hope this guide helps you recycle your electronics responsibly in 2026.
