Recycling & Disposal Guide: Tablets and Phones
✅ Best Recycling & Disposal Methods:
Electronics Recycling Centers
Many municipalities have e-waste recycling programs that accept old tablets and phones. Check with your local waste management services.
Retailers like Best Buy, Staples, and Office Depot offer drop-off recycling for small electronics.
Manufacturer & Carrier Trade-In Programs
Apple Trade-In – Apple accepts old iPhones and iPads for recycling or credit toward a new device.
Samsung Recycle & Trade-In – Samsung has a similar program for phones and tablets.
Google, Microsoft, and Amazon also offer trade-in programs for eligible devices.
Mobile carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint) may provide trade-in deals or recycling options.
Donate for a Good Cause
Cell Phones for Soldiers – Provides free communication services to active military members and veterans.
Secure the Call – Collects used phones to distribute as emergency devices for at-risk individuals.
Medic Mobile – Accepts old smartphones for repurposing in global health programs.
Local shelters, schools, or nonprofits may accept working devices.
🚫 Not Accepted in Curbside Recycling:
Phones and tablets contain lithium-ion batteries, which must be recycled properly to avoid environmental hazards.
🗑 Trash Disposal (If No Other Option)
Never throw phones or tablets in regular trash—they contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium, which can leach into the environment.
Important Notes & Warnings:
⚠ Factory Reset Your Device – Before recycling or donating, erase personal data by doing a factory reset.⚠ Remove SIM & Memory Cards – Take out your SIM card and external storage to protect sensitive information.⚠ Beware of Lithium Battery Risks – Devices with built-in batteries must not be thrown in the trash due to fire hazards.
