How to throw away electronics (Hint: Do not throw them away)

By Whitney

by Whitney

We’ve been through more than a few digital cameras since we started using them. Oh, and there’s the film-based camera that’s still sitting around in a drawer somewhere, never to be used again. And some old cell phones. And some electronic learning toys that my kids have outgrown. The list of landfill-ready products in my house is simply growing every day.

What can you do with electronics that you don’t want or need anymore? Here are a few tips:

Pass them down to the kids for role playing. Cell phones are perfect for 3-year olds imitating Daddy. Cameras (that can be dropped) turn any 4-year old into Mommy. My son loves to use baby toys that make noise as part of his “control panel” when he’s acting out a train fantasy. When those electronics have worn out their welcome in that function, move to tactics 2-4.
Donate them. Could your product be of value to a school, non-profit, or low-income person? Seek out a service that refurbishes electronic products. Techsoup has a search by zip code. (Thanks, ksolomon!) Some charities, such as the SPCA, are willing to do the work to recycle or sell your old electronics on Ebay to raise money. If you find an opportunity like this, seize it. You may be able to drop off cell phones, printer cartridges, and cameras all in one outing.
Recycle them. Google “electronics disposal {city name}” to find an independent provider of this service. Or, take it to BestBuy. They’ll recycle electronics (minus hard drives) that you bring in, and they’ll come haul away large appliances like dryers or TVs if you are buying your new one from their store.
Check with the manufacturer. Inquire to see if they take returns of electronics for proper disposal. There are some (but not many) that will do this.
Plan ahead. Some communities have electronics “Reuse and Clean Up Days” that provide curbside pickup or drop-off service at a central location. Keep your eyes peeled for these notifications and purge your drawers and cupboards.

Stuff that should not go in the trash can at your house:

Batteries
Printer cartridges
Anything that plugs in
Anything that uses batteries
Computer peripherals
Cell phones
Radios
Your kids

3 Responses to “How to throw away electronics (Hint: Do not throw them away)”

Simon Kirwan says:

August 4, 2009 at 11:09 pm

Good post, i have jusat started selling on ebay, this will be a huge help for me reaching my ultimate goal of making a full time living online. D
Dane Sauve says:

February 3, 2010 at 6:49 am

Thanks for sharing that sound advice.
Tyson F. Gautreaux says:

February 8, 2010 at 5:31 pm

Super-Duper site! I am loving it!! Will come back again – taking you feeds also, Thanks.