Where To Recycle Electronics Near Me

Knowing where to recycle electronics can save you time and energy when spring cleaning rolls around. We tend to hold onto old phones, laptops, and desktop computers longer than we have to, just in case we might need them. However, they might be broken, obsolete, or unsellable. Eventually, we need to get them out of our hair, and that’s when e-waste recycling services come onto the scene. 

Most electronics cannot be tossed in the trash. Many curbside garbage services have strict rules about picking up old computers and televisions, and for a good reason. Throwing them in landfills can result in toxic metals entering our soil and groundwater. However, much of our e-waste doesn't get handled properly. 

There is a large amount of exported e-waste that finds its way to less-developed countries like India and the Philippines. There, it is sorted through by low-wage workers, burned, or left to sit. his causes damage to the environment and health problems for the people living in these areas and isn't a sustainable solution. 

Ethical e-cycling programs exist to combat this issue, and you can do your part to pass along your used electronics responsibly.  

Considering Other Options  

Before you throw your old phone or computer out, it's important to consider whether it still works. If it is still functioning, you can try to repurpose or sell it. Old phones can be used as mp3 players or emergency cellphones or passed down to other family members. Computers and monitors can be repurposed in a number of ways, along with tablets and other devices. 

Selling gives you a chance to earn back a portion of the cost, especially if the electronic device is still in decent condition. You can list it on sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, or search for trading sites online. Many people hunt through the listings on these sites for inexpensive second-hand phones and computers, especially if they don't have the money to buy from traditional retailers. 

Donating your old devices is also an option. Smartphones are becoming a necessity in many people's lives, especially if they handle their finances and job apps online. While they might not be able to afford a laptop, a smartphone is a portable computer that they can use as their primary connection. Students also require laptops to complete schoolwork, and not all of them have the money for new devices. Many schools and libraries will also accept donations, so it's worth asking. 

Regardless of how you choose to pass along on your device, make sure that your information is adequately protected. Wipe the device and take measures to protect your identity. 

Return To Retailer or Manufacturer 

Believe it or not, many manufacturers and retailers will take back the products that you don't want anymore. While you might not be able to drive to your local Best Buy and hand back your old printer, many of them host events, mail-ins, and other take-back programs. 

• For PCs: Staples, HP, Dell, Best Buy, Samsung, Sony, and Vizio have permanent drop-off sites, in-store, and even haul-away recycling opportunities. 
• For printers: HP and Xerox will take back old printers and printer-parts. 
• For televisions: LG, Vizio, Best Buy, TCL, Samsung, and Sony will accept old LCD televisions, and offer an assortment of mail-in, drop-off, or event options. 
• For phones: Samsung, LG, HP, Sprint, Staples, and Best Buy all offer electronics recycling programs, including events and in-store drop-off.  

While these may vary depending on where you live, you can call the stores or their representatives to ask if they have recycling options. As mentioned above, these might vary between event-only, mail-in, or simple drop-off recycling services. While this might be a hassle, it gives you a chance to get your old electronics off your hands.

Electronic Recycling Programs 

If you don't want to give your devices back to the manufacturer or have concerns about what they're doing with your old phones and laptops, you can always look for electronic recycling programs in your area. While some states have official recycling programs, many don’t. 

These services are dedicated to recycling electronic waste of many different kinds, and many offer pickup services at your home or office. If you have a fair amount of junk, you can get rid of it all at once. 

However, it’s best to keep your eye out for e-waste scams. These programs will take your devices and try to steal data, or export your old electronics to developing countries. This puts you and the environment in danger and negates the point of choosing to recycle in the first place. 

If a recycling service is boasting about being free, it's a red flag. E-waste recycling is an expensive process, and your fees go towards making sure that these programs stay afloat. You're not only paying to get rid of your old junk, but you're also paying for peace of mind. 

Responsible recycling programs will make sure that your old electronics are handled properly, and all the recyclable parts are passed along to be re-used. 

When it’s Time to Call Junk King

If you don’t have the time or just don’t want to deal with the hassle of researching local trade-in and buyback programs, it’s time to call Junk King to take your old electronics off your hands. We can pick up and haul away practically any kind of electronic device, including televisions and computer monitors. 

We don’t just deal in e-waste, either. You can combine your furniture, appliances, and e-waste into one convenient haul and we’ll pick it up all on one trip. This is more cost-effective, and saves you time when clearing out your home, storage unit, or office space. You can even ask friends or neighbors if they have recyclable items, and split the bill among yourselves. 

Once you've scheduled your pickup, there’s nothing left to do but gather your junk. We’ll give you a call fifteen minutes before we arrive to let you know we’re on the way, and will provide you with a free quote after we arrive. Once you give us the thumbs up, we’ll load it up on the truck and take it back to be sorted--up to 60% of the items we haul go on to be donated or recycled. 

Ready to get rid of that junk? It’s as simple as 1, 2, 3. You can make an appointment by booking online above or by calling 1.888.888.JUNK (5865).