Dealing with Tech Clutter
How to Responsibly Recycle or Donate Old Electronics
Technology is everywhere in our lives and homes—but it often leaves behind a mess of boxes, cords, cables, and outdated devices. When you upgrade your phone, laptop, tablet, or other gadgets, what do you do with the old ones (and all those extra accessories)?
First things first: Always wipe your personal data before getting rid of any device. Back it up, then perform a factory reset (search for model-specific instructions from the manufacturer). Avoid risky methods like magnets or hammers—proper software erasure is safer and more effective.
Here are the best, most responsible ways to dispose of or donate unwanted phones, computers, tablets, chargers, cables, and more:
1. Apple Devices (iPhones, iPads, Macs, etc.) Apple makes it super easy. Bring your old Apple products (and accessories like cables or cases) to any Apple Store for free recycling—no purchase required. They accept almost any Apple device, even if it's old or broken. You can also use their online Apple Trade In program at apple.com/shop/trade-in for credit toward a new purchase (values vary by model and condition, often $40–$650+ for recent iPhones). If it's not worth credit, they recycle it for free anyway.
2. Major Retailers for General Electronics
Best Buy and Staples offer free in-store recycling for computers, printers, monitors, cables, batteries, and much more (limits may apply per visit—check their sites or call ahead).
Amazon has a free Trade-In program where you can ship eligible devices for credit or recycling.
3. Find Local Certified Recycling Centers Search for e-waste recyclers near you using Earth911.com—just enter your ZIP code and the item type (e.g., "electronics," "cables," or "mixed e-waste"). Many municipal recycling centers accept unidentified cords and cables too.
4. Donate Working Devices (Especially Cell Phones) If the device still powers on and functions:
Drop it off at Goodwill, Salvation Army, or similar local charities—they often accept electronics (with or without chargers) and handle resale or recycling responsibly.
For cell phones specifically, great options include:
Cell Phones for Soldiers (cellphonesforsoldiers.com) — Supports military members and veterans; they have thousands of drop-off locations or mail-in options.
Other charities like ECO-CELL, Second Wave Recycling, or women's resource centers — they refurbish phones for those in need (e.g., domestic violence survivors) or recycle for proceeds to good causes.
Quick Tips for All Items
Bundle everything together (device + cords + accessories) when possible—it makes drop-offs easier.
For cables and small accessories, check local recycling centers via Earth911 if retailers don't take them.
Avoid landfills—responsible recycling recovers valuable materials and prevents environmental harm.
By choosing one of these options, you're reducing clutter and helping the planet. Got a specific device or location in mind? I can help narrow it down! ♻️
Boxes and extra paperwork can be recycled at any time. You do not have to keep the boxes forever! Especially if you no longer have the device.
As soon as you acquire new technology that is replacing another (e.g. phone, tablet, tv), gather the old and all of its cords, cables, and instructions and recycle, sell, or donate. Don’t keep it “just in case” otherwise you’ll have a collection of old electronics that you never used and can’t remember why you kept it.
Bonus points if you actually label the new cords as you unbox them! So many times we just throw them in a drawer and forget what they went to. Take a few minutes to label them so you don’t forget!
Did I forget anything? Feel free to email me with your suggestions for responsible electronics disposal.