Air fryers have become a kitchen staple, but like all small appliances, they eventually wear out. Maybe yours no longer heats properly, the nonstick coating is peeling, or you’ve upgraded to a newer model. Now you're left wondering what to do with the old one. Can you throw it in the trash? Is it recyclable? The good news is, there are responsible, eco-friendly ways to part with your old air fryer. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best disposal options, whether your appliance is still working or completely broken.
What to do with an old air fryer
Because air fryers contain electronic components, they’re considered e-waste and shouldn’t be tossed in your household trash or recycling bin. Here are five smart and sustainable options:
Recycle at a local e-waste center
Many communities offer e-waste recycling programs that accept small kitchen appliances. Check with your local waste management agency or electronics recycling facility to see if they’ll take your broken air fryer. This is a great option for people who want to ensure their old appliance gets disassembled and processed correctly.
Donate or sell if it still works
If your air fryer is still in working condition, consider donating it to a thrift store, community kitchen, or charity. Be sure to contact them first—some places don’t accept used appliances. You could also sell it through a secondhand marketplace or give it away to a friend or neighbor. This is ideal if you’re upgrading and the old unit still has life left in it.
Use a retailer’s take-back program
Some retailers, like Best Buy or Staples, offer electronics recycling or trade-in programs. They may accept small appliances, including air fryers, either for free or with a small fee. Visit the store’s website or ask in-store for details. This option works well for shoppers who are already making a trip or purchasing a replacement appliance.
Check for manufacturer recycling options
Brands like Ninja or Philips may offer recycling services for their products. Look up your air fryer’s manufacturer online to see if they offer a mail-back program or local recycling drop-off option. Manufacturer take-back programs are ideal for those who want a brand-specific solution.
Schedule a junk removal pickup
If you'd rather skip the hassle altogether, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? is happy to help. We offer full-service junk removal, including small appliance disposal. Whether your air fryer is broken, outdated, or just taking up space, we’ll take it off your hands—and we’ll do our best to handle e-waste responsibly by donating or recycling it where possible. Schedule a junk pickup online or call us anytime at 1-800-468-5865.
Why you shouldn’t throw away an air fryer
It might be tempting to toss your broken air fryer in the trash, but there are a few important reasons not to:
- Air fryers contain electrical components and metal wiring that can leach toxins into the environment if sent to a landfill.
- Many municipalities have laws prohibiting the disposal of e-waste in regular trash bins.
- Most of the materials inside an air fryer—like plastic, metal, and circuitry—can be recycled or repurposed when properly handled.
That’s why it’s worth choosing one of the responsible disposal methods above. Not every option will be right for every situation, and if you’re looking for a fast and easy solution, we’re here to help.
