How to dispose of old computers

Do you know how to recycle an old computer correctly? Older computers quickly become obsolete as technology advances, leaving many people wondering what to do with their outdated devices. Simply throwing an old computer in the trash isn’t just wasteful—it can also pose serious risks to both data security and the environment. 

Disposing of an old PC may seem straightforward, but improper disposal can lead to data theft and environmental harm. Old computers often contain lead, mercury, and cadmium, all materials that have negative health effects if they get into groundwater or are incinerated. In general, we want to reduce the amount of material in the waste stream. By following our guidelines, you can ensure your old computer is handled carefully and contributes to a sustainable future.      

Are you sure you need to get rid of your old computer? Just because you are ready for a new computer doesn’t mean the only option is to dispose of your old one. You may be able to repair your existing computer and replace the components to get it working again. Our guide can help determine whether you need to upgrade or replace your computer. Oftentimes, an upgrade will speed up and modernize your system and your once old computer may surprise you with a new lease of life. You can even give the computer a whole new role, such as building a Network Attached Storage device for your home.     

Determining the condition of your computer will help you decide what to do with it. If the computer is in good working condition and you do not want to keep it, you could donate it to a charity, school, or library, or sell it to earn some money for a new PC if the computer is not in working condition. If your computer is not working, you may still be able to use some of the parts and components including the RAM or storage drives in a new PC you purchase. Be sure to check these components are compatible with the motherboard in your new PC, otherwise, they won’t work. If you do not want the components, you could donate them to a repair shop or charity if they are still functional for someone else to repurpose. If neither the computer system nor components are working, recycling it at a reputable recycling center is far more environmentally friendly than throwing it in the trash. 

Taking the time to prepare your computer for disposal reduces waste and protects your data. Before you do anything with your computer, you need to ensure that all confidential or personally identifying information has been permanently removed from your storage drive to protect your information. You will need to take some time to review the files on your computer to determine what you are happy to permanently delete and what and where you would like to save your files to transfer them to a new computer.

It is important to back up your computer data before disposal to ensure you don’t lose valuable data. This includes documents, photos, and videos that are saved and stored on your computer. Once you have permanently deleted a file and disposed of the computer it will be nearly impossible to recover the files. Following our helpful backup tips can reduce the risk of losing files by sharing them across multiple devices and systems but it is important to carefully review all your files before factory resetting the computer.

There are several options on where you can back up your files. Cloud-based services such as Google Drive and Dropbox mean your files are safely stored online and can be accessed across several devices and computers rather than being stored on the computer's internal hard drive. Another option is to store and back up your files on an external hard drive. They can store large amounts of files and are portable making it easier for you to move documents between devices. A final option is to use a Network Attached Storage device, which is recommended if you have large data volumes as they store files for multiple devices on one network.

To learn how to back up your files read our article How to Back Up Your Files on an External Drive.

Once you have backed up all your files you then need to erase all the data from the hard drive and factory reset the computer to its original settings. To reset your Windows computer within the Settings there is a “reset this PC” option which will factory reset the computer. To erase data on a Mac you can use the “Disk Utility” section in the Settings to erase and reformat all the drives. You can also purchase, or find for free, software that will overwrite all the information on your storage drive and clear it for you. Be careful that the software does what you need it to do by independently verifying the company and the software. Software should meet the Department of Defense 5220.22-M standard. See our article on how to securely erase data from your hard drive for more information.

 As an additional layer of security, we would recommend physically removing and destroying the storage devices. Carefully unscrew the case to remove the drives and then destroy them using a hammer, leaving it in water, or using a specialized shredder. For hard disk drives, finding a facility that will shred the drive can be difficult, but it ensures that no data can be recovered. For solid-state drives, it's easier to find machinery that will shred it or you can use a document shredding company who can shred the storage drive for you. 

You can also purchase, or find for free, software that will overwrite all the information on your storage drive. Be very sure that the software does what you need it to do by independently verifying the company and the software. Software should meet the Department of Defense 5220.22-M standard. To learn more about wiping a hard drive, read here.

Once you have removed all your sensitive information the last step in preparing your computer for disposal is to clean and tidy it. This is especially important if you are looking to donate or resell your computer. Wipe down the exterior and remove the case and any stickers you may have. Detach all accessories, including keyboards, mice, and cables, as these can often be reused or donated separately. This step is especially important if you are donating or selling your computer with the intended purpose of someone else using it in its current condition.

Donating your old computer is a great way to give it a second life while helping others; providing it is still functional and in fair condition. Many organizations accept older computers in working conditions and distribute them to individuals or communities in need. Alternatively, charities can refurbish your old computer or donate the parts to someone in need or sell them to help raise funds. Schools, libraries, and non-profit organizations also often welcome donated computers. Before donating, ensure the computer is fully functional and that all personal data has been securely erased. This not only supports a good cause but also reduces electronic waste by extending the PC’s lifespan.

Goodwill accepts a variety of donations including computers, laptops, tablets, TVs, and smartphones which can be donated to those who may not be able to afford a brand-new device. Goodwill recommends donating at a donation center but in some cities, you may see a Goodwill-branded donation bin where they can also be donated if they are packaged securely. 

You can also donate good-condition electronics to The Salvation Army. They have drop-off locations throughout the US as well as offering a free pickup service if you have larger or several items to donate. Each donation center has its own policies and opening hours so be sure to check your local branch before visiting.

Recycling your old computer is one of the most environmentally responsible ways to dispose of it. Certified e-waste recyclers ensure that your computer is dismantled safely, recovering usable components and preventing harmful chemicals from polluting the environment. Many manufacturers and retailers offer recycling programs, making it easy to drop off your old computer. Local recycling facilities and organizations certified by e-Stewards or R2 (Responsible Recycling) are also excellent options for ensuring your computer is recycled sustainably. Organizations will occasionally run recycling drives to get a truckload of electronics. This is a great way to safely recycle all your devices at once. Several retail stores also accept electronic donations.

Best Buy allows you to donate three electronic items per household per day. This includes computers, desktops, laptops, tablets, netbooks, memory, accessories, printers, and many more. Be sure to check if there are any fees for donating to a Best Buy in your State as they are not all free.

Staples recycling service allows you to donate electronics either in-store or by mail. You can earn points by using this service to unlock exclusive offers. If you recycle in-store you may also receive an e-gift card on selected items.

Many brands offer a trade-in program including Dell, Lenovo, and Apple. Depending on the brand you can often be paid for trading in an item or use it to get money off a new product from your chosen brand.

Many areas also have a place where you can take electronic equipment for safe disposal. This will often be connected to the municipal sanitary landfill, garbage collection, or recycling organizations. There might be limited hours or collection points, so you'll need to do some research.

Reselling your old computer is a great way to give it a second life and earn some money to put towards your next PC. Online marketplaces such as eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace make it easy to connect with potential buyers locally or globally. There are also refurbishing companies that buy used computers for repair and resale. Before listing your device, take the time to clean it thoroughly, erase all personal data securely, and take high-quality photos to showcase its condition. When selling online, write a compelling description that includes key details like the computer’s specifications, age, and accessories. 

Take some time to look at other sellers and their prices to get a better idea of how much your computer is worth. Pricing your device competitively based on its condition and market value can help attract buyers. Additionally, some platforms offer features like seller protection and shipping assistance to streamline the process.

Transporting and dropping off your computer requires careful planning to ensure it arrives safely at its destination whether you are selling or recycling it. Begin by securely packaging the computer to protect it from damage during transit. Use bubble wrap, foam padding, or the original packaging if available; and package it securely in a sealed box.

If you are disposing of your PC at a recycling center, donation facility, or charity check their opening hours and any specific drop-off instructions before traveling. Some facilities may require appointments or charge a small recycling fee, while others offer free drop-offs. Knowing these details in advance can save you time and effort. For large electronics recycling events, check if there are weight or item limits. Disposing of an old computer requires careful planning to ensure data security and environmental responsibility. Whether you choose to recycle, donate, or sell your PC, following these steps will protect your personal information and help you decide how to dispose of your computer.