How Do I Properly Dispose of a Microwave Oven?

Microwave ovens should be repaired, recycled, or given away rather than tossed.

Because of environmental concerns, tossing your old microwave in the trash is an unfavorable option for disposing of the appliance. There are a number of alternatives in getting rid of your old microwave oven, though your options generally vary depending on where you live. If the microwave is still working, you have a few more ways to dispose of the appliance than if it's broken and no longer functioning.

Things You'll Need

• Phone
• Internet access

Instructions

Still Functioning

1. Ask your friends and family members whether they need a microwave oven or if they know anyone who might.

2. Donate the microwave to a local Goodwill store or charity.

3. Post an ad in the newspaper or on a local listing website such as Craigslist to see if anyone else might want the appliance (link in Resources below).

Non-Functioning

1. Locate and contact a local appliance repair shop and ask whether they purchase or accept broken microwaves.

2. Contact your local trash bureau and ask about its policy for microwave disposal.

3. Locate a recycling center in your area using a website such as Earth911 or E-cycling Central (links in Resources below).

4. Contact the recycling centers in your area and ask them if they accept broken microwaves or know of a recycling center that does.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean up your microwave before selling as an act of common courtesy and for the chance to make a few extra bucks from the appliance.

• Certain areas may offer a curbside pick-up of old appliances and electronic devices such as microwaves.

• Your local trash bureau and certain recycling centers may charge a fee for microwave disposal.

References

• Yes Magazine: But How?--Broken Office Equipment
• Microwave Wizard: Microwave Oven Disposal: How to Do It

Resources

• Craigslist
• E-cycling Central
• Earth911