How to donate or recycle laptops and computers

Find a nearby place for laptops and computers

Set your location to search close to home. The finder only shows places linked to this item.

How to donate or recycle laptops and computers

Back up what you need, sign out of accounts and erase personal data. A reuse service can make use of working equipment.

Possible recycling routes

Charity donation pointsReuse shops and centresElectrical recycling pointsHousehold waste recycling centresRetailer take-back points

Prepare laptops and computers for donation or recycling

• Erase personal data
• Remove memory cards and discs
• Keep chargers with reusable devices

What must stay out

Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.

• Deleting files alone may not erase data
• Damaged lithium batteries need careful handling
• Business equipment needs a compliant business WEEE route

Types of site to check

These site types can list laptops and computers. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.

• Charity donation points

  Charity shops, donation banks and collection services for clean, safe and saleable goods. Each charity decides what its local shops can accept.

• Reuse shops and centres

  Sites that accept usable household items for resale or redistribution. They can be at recycling centres or run as separate community projects.

• Electrical recycling points

  Drop-off points for electrical items with a plug, battery or cable. Accepted item sizes vary by site.

• Household waste recycling centres

  Council-run sites that accept many types of household recycling and waste. Local rules can cover booking, proof of address, vehicle permits and charges for some DIY waste.

• Retailer take-back points

  Shops and delivery services that take back selected products or packaging. Rules depend on the product, the retailer and whether you are buying a replacement.

Collection and take-back services

These services may offer another route when a local site does not list the item.

• Currys electrical recycling

  Currys accepts electrical items for recycling in stores and offers take-back options with some deliveries.

• Electrical retailer take-back

  Retailers can take back old electrical products under UK waste electrical rules. The service depends on the retailer and the item size.

Related item guides

• Household batteries

  Portable batteries including AA, AAA, button cells and rechargeable battery packs.

• Electrical items

  Household products with a plug, battery, cable or crossed-out wheelie bin symbol.

• Mobile phones

  Working and broken mobile phones, smartphones and their chargers.

• Printer ink and toner cartridges

  Used inkjet cartridges, laser toner cartridges and selected printer consumables.

Browse all item guides

Questions about donating or recycling laptops and computers

Where can I donate or recycle laptops and computers?

Enter your postcode in the local finder to search charity donation points and reuse shops and centres and electrical recycling points and household waste recycling centres and retailer take-back points near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.

How should I prepare laptops and computers for recycling?

Back up what you need, sign out of accounts and erase personal data. A reuse service can make use of working equipment.