Ways to recycle old laptops and electronics – and how you can make money

Ways to recycle old laptops and electronics – and how you can make moneyThe average household has several old gadgets lying around the house unused but many people don't know how to dispose of them properly - and you could make some money on themCommentsTechnologyNiamh Kirk Features Writer14:11, 14 Apr 2026Updated 14:11, 14 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesYou can make money on your unused tech gadgets(Image: Julie Thurston Photography/Getty Images)You could be making some extra cash on that old iPhone you haven't turned on in years.‌We're all guilty of having that one drawer full of old, broken gadgets that are no longer used but still reluctant to throw out. But did you know you could make money on the dust collectors?‌The average Brit has around three old unused electrical items laying around the house, but recycling these things can be tricky when you don't exactly know how.‌According to the United Nations' we produced 137 billion pounds of electronic waste in 2022, and only 22% of it was recycled properly. But it has to be done properly, as putting them in landfill can harm the environment.Local councils have designated areas for electronics, while retailers such as Currys and B&Q have take back schemes where you can dispose of items. However if it's items such as a phone, laptop or iPad, always reset your phone and clear off any personal data.READ MORE: Items not allowed in food waste bins after new 2026 council rule changeView 2 ImagesMany Brits don't recycle their old technology properly (Image: Getty Images)‌While items such as kettles, toasters, cookers, games consoles, computers are steel which is 100% recyclable, and can be melted down and turned into new items without weakening the metal.According to Recycle Now, essentially, anything with a plug, battery, or cable can be recycled, such as:Tech: Phones, laptops, printers, cameras, TVs, toys.Small Appliances: Kettles, toasters, blenders, vacuum cleaners.Personal Grooming: Haird...