Toasters and toaster ovens may seem like simple appliances, but when they reach the end of their lives, it's important to dispose of them properly. These small appliances are considered e-waste, meaning they shouldn’t be thrown away with regular trash. In this article, we'll show you environmentally friendly and convenient ways to dispose of a toaster or toaster oven.
What to do with an old toaster or toaster oven
When your toaster or toaster oven is no longer working, it can’t be discarded in regular household waste. Small appliances like toasters contain materials that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Fortunately, there are several responsible ways to dispose of these small appliances.
1) Sell or donate your toaster
If your old toaster or toaster oven still works, donating or selling it is the most eco-friendly option. Giving away your toaster helps keep it out of the landfill while benefiting others. You can sell a working toaster online through platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, or donate it to charities, shelters, or thrift stores. Just ensure the appliance is still in good condition, as most organizations won't accept broken items.
To donate items with ease, consider using a junk removal service.
2) Use a retail take-back program
Many retailers offer take-back programs for used or broken appliances. This allows you to return your toaster oven for proper recycling or disposal. Retailers like Best Buy and Home Depot often accept toasters and other small appliances for recycling, even if you aren’t purchasing a new one. Be sure to check for any conditions before dropping it off.
3)Recycle your broken toaster or toaster oven
If your toaster oven is no longer working and can’t be donated or resold, it’s time to recycle it. Recycling a toaster ensures that valuable materials such as metal and plastic are reused. You can take it to a local e-waste recycling center or a scrap metal facility. Websites like Earth911 offer tools to help you find a recycling location near you.
You can also check with your local municipal programs to find out how to recycle your toaster or toaster oven responsibly.
