Old microwaves are a challenge to dispose of, but this article offers you several options you can consider.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your microwave, or already have a new one, it’s also time to start thinking about what to do with your old microwave. As with most electronics, they shouldn’t just be thrown in the trash due to the toxicity they can cause.
You do have a few options when it comes to disposing of an old microwave, but first, let’s cover why the trash is the last place you should place your microwave.
Why Can’t I Just Throw It In The Garbage?
Microwaves are part of what is called e-waste. E-waste is a term used to describe electronic products that are at the end of their useful life or that no longer work and need to be disposed of.
The problem with e-waste is that just dumping these items in the garbage results in it being sent to a landfill which can then leak toxic materials into the ground if buried. This is why it is so important to discard microwaves safely.
While the toxic materials and harmful environmental issues are the main reason to not just throw them away, they are also too bulky for the garbageman to have to deal with.
To dispose of a microwave the right way, you should take it to a garbage center, sell it or donate it.
There are tons of places that take microwaves, or you can search for something like “Electronic recycling programs” on Google to find recycling opportunities in your area.
Below are more details on options for getting rid of that old microwave.
6 Ways To Discard Old Microwaves
Below are several options for discarding your old microwaves so you can make room for that new one!
Recycling
If your microwave no longer works, the best option is to recycle it.
But how and where exactly?
The easiest way to recycle your microwave is to bring it somewhere local that offers electronic recycling. Sometimes your local garbage company may offer drop-off locations or pickup services, so it is worth calling them first.
Your local community may also host recycling days where you can drop your items off, so that is worth checking out too. You can also look at this great Recycling Search tool from Keep America Beautiful.
Big Box Retail Stores
Some places like Best Buy will accept old electronics and dispose of them for you properly. If you order a new microwave from a store, whether a mom-and-pop shop or a big one like Lowe’s they may take your old microwave out when they deliver the new one.
Selling An Old Microwave
You might be surprised just how much you can sell online! Try eBay or Facebook Marketplace and see if anyone is interested in taking it for free from you. Some people buy them to fix and resell, while others may use it for parts.
Appliance Repair Shops
Call around to your local small repair shops as they may also look for old microwaves to repair and sell. I used a small appliance repair shop to install my new microwave that we brought home ourselves, and they were nice enough to take our old one for a few dollars. So, you definitely want to ask!
Manufacturer Recycling Programs
Some manufacturers may have their own take-back programs as well. Some will have an internal program, while others may pair ip with a big box retailer to make it happen. Calling the manufacturer of your microwave will be another highly recommended option.
I would suggest calling them before you purchase a new one, you never know what kind of deal you might get for being a loyal customer too!
Donate Your Microwave
If your microwave still actually works you can also donate it. There are so many people out there who may not be able to easily afford a microwave and you might just make some family really happy by donating it. You can donate it to a local charity, or a woman’s shelter, or reach out on Facebook and see if a local family can use it.
If your microwave still works and you’re just upgrading, your best bet is to either sell it or donate it.
Not only are you either making a little bit of money or helping someone in need, but you’re also going above and beyond recycling – you’re reusing.
If word of mouth can’t get your microwave sold, try online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook. There’s a huge market for buying and selling used electronics, and decently priced microwave ovens won’t be on the market for long.