Here’s a rephrased version of the text, preserving its original content and HTML structure:

—

Let’s be honest: life is an ongoing routine of acquiring new possessions while figuring out how to handle the old ones. When there’s no straightforward method for disposing of unwanted items, clutter inevitably accumulates.

We’ve been educated to recycle fundamental items such as paper, metals, glass, and select plastics. However, even then, only a tiny fraction of those materials ends up being recycled. With more challenging items—such as electronics, clothing, or beauty products—many individuals find themselves asking: Is this recyclable, or should I just throw it away?

The response isn’t always clear-cut, but it isn’t as complex as it appears. With some effort, you can responsibly recycle an impressive range of household goods. Here’s how to address the clutter sustainably, focusing on one category at a time.

How to Recycle Electronics

Electronic waste (e-waste) is an escalating issue. The U.S. produces approximately 7 million tons of it each year, with less than 18% being adequately recycled. Disposing of electronics in the trash wastes precious materials like rare earth metals and poses a risk of releasing toxic substances into the environment.

Sadly, many people remain unaware of how or where to recycle their outdated technology. A CNET survey indicated that over 30% of U.S. adults hold onto old phones and chargers simply due to uncertainty about what else to do.

Cell Phones, Laptops, TVs, and More

Most mobile carriers provide trade-in programs for phones and tablets. But even if your device is not in optimal condition, options are still available:

– Best Buy allows drop-offs of up to three electronics per household each day in-store, welcoming items like TVs, laptops, routers, headphones, cameras, and gaming controllers. They also provide a paid pickup service for larger items, such as treadmills or refrigerators.
– Samsung users can locate nearby e-cycling drop-off centers, often situated at Best Buy, Staples, or local waste management facilities.
– Apple features its own recycling initiative and offers prepaid shipping labels for returns.

Chargers, Cables, and Dongles

You can recycle outdated cords and connectors through Best Buy or Apple’s recycling programs. Don’t let that cluttered drawer of tech accessories keep multiplying.

Batteries

Call2Recycle provides free battery recycling at retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Staples. Visit their website to discover a nearby drop-off site. They also offer mail-in kits, although these start at $80.

How to Recycle Clothes and Shoes

Donating to Goodwill isn’t your only avenue—especially for items that are too worn to sell.

– For gently used apparel, consider selling on platforms like Depop, Poshmark, or Mercari. You don’t need a large audience—just some appealing photos and accurate descriptions.
– Give Back Box collaborates with charities to accept donations via mail. You pay $20 for a shipping label and send your items in any box you have at home.
– For clothes that are no longer wearable, Girlfriend Collective’s ReGirlfriend initiative (operated by SuperCircle) accepts garments from all brands. Shipping is free, and you’ll receive store credit in exchange.

How to Recycle Household Items

Certain everyday products—like Swiffer pads—aren’t recyclable through curbside pickup. However, that doesn’t imply they’re destined for the trash heap.

– Think about transitioning to a robot vacuum and mop combination to reduce the use of throwaway cleaning supplies.
– TerraCycle collaborates with brands like Swiffer, Tide, Brita, and Febreze to facilitate free mail-in recycling for household products that are difficult to recycle.

Coffee Pods

– Nespresso provides free recycling bags and drop-off locations for utilized pods.
– Keurig has a comparable program, but it is tailored primarily for workplaces and is not free.

How to Recycle Beauty and Bathroom Products

Makeup and Skincare

Beauty packaging may appear recyclable, but often it is not. Many containers are composed of mixed materials or plastics that local recycling systems do not accept.

– Ulta and Sephora have teamed up with Pact Collective to provide in-store recycling bins for beauty empties.
– Nordstrom also supplies TerraCycle drop-off bins for beauty packaging.
– Project Beauty Share welcomes gently used skincare and makeup products (provided they aren’t expired).

Hair Tools

Mane, in collaboration with Pact Collective, accepts old hair tools—whether functional or not. Working devices are cleaned and donated to Project Glimmer, while non-working items are responsibly recycled. Simply print a prepaid shipping label and use your own box.

Razors

Disposable razors consist of mixed materials, which complicates recycling. TerraCycle has a free program for Gillette and Venus razors, including blades, handles, and their packaging.

Toothbrushes

Approximately one billion plastic toothbrushes end up in landfills each year. TerraCycle offers free recycling initiatives for brands like Colgate, Tom’s of Maine, and Arm & Hammer. Oral-B also has a direct