How to recycle appliances the easy way

Out with the old, in with the new? When upgrading to new kitchen appliances, it's important to properly dispose of your old ones in an environmentally responsible way. Whether they are small, broken, or just old, here are some tips on how to recycle your kitchen appliances:

Why recycle appliances?

Kitchen appliances like fridges, ovens, and dishwashers contain valuable materials that can be reused. When you see the crossed out wheelie bin symbol on an appliance, it means it shouldn't go in your regular bin. Instead, these items need special handling to prevent environmental harm and recover useful resources.

Where to recycle appliances

1. Use in-store recycling services

Major stores such as Argos, B&Q, Currys PC World, and others offer appliance recycling services, either at no cost or for a small charge. Some even offer to pick up your old appliance when the new one is delivered, sparing you the trouble of having to transport it yourself.

2. Use online recycling services

Online retailers like Ship It Appliances and AO offer convenient recycling services for household appliances. Many offer a "Collect & Recycle" service, allowing customers to book collections for old appliances, ensuring they are either responsibly recycled or refurbished for resale. At, Ship It Appliances you can contact our customer service team to inquire about our responsible recycling options.

3. Check with local recycling centres and councils

Most local councils in the UK provide appliance collection services for a reasonable cost. Simply contact your council and schedule a pickup date and they'll ensure your old appliance is responsibly recycled or disposed of. If you prefer to handle this yourself, you can take your old appliance to a local recycling centre. Many centres accept large household items like fridges and ovens - just be sure to check their policies beforehand.

Some local authorities include small electrical items in their home recycling schemes. If your area does, there might be specific guidelines on how to set them out for collection - like placing them in a clear plastic bag tied to your recycling bin. It's always a good idea to check with your local authority first.

4. Donate or sell working appliances

If your old appliance is still in good working condition, you may be able to donate it to a local charity or sell it second-hand. This not only keeps the appliance out of landfills but also provides an affordable option for someone in need. Many charities accept donations of lightly used appliances and may even offer free pickup services. Another alternative is to list your appliance for sale online or through local community networks.

How to prepare appliances for recycling

Before you recycle your electrical appliance:

1. Remove any batteries
2. Wipe personal data from smart devices
3. Drain any water from appliances like washing machines
4. Disconnect and bundle all cords

Think about recycling other materials too!

While you're thinking about recycling, don't forget about any packaging materials that came with your new appliance. Polystyrene, plastic wrap, and cardboard boxes should also be properly recycled according to your local council's recycling guidelines.

The impact of recycling electricals

By choosing to recycle your old appliances, you're:

• Reducing landfill waste
• Conserving natural resources
• Preventing harmful substances from entering the environment
• Supporting the circular economy

Bonus tip: Properly prepare your appliances for recycling

Before recycling your old appliances, make sure they’re ready to go. This may involve draining any remaining liquids, removing any potentially hazardous items, and disconnecting any wires. Check with your local recycling centre or council for specific instructions on how to prepare your appliances for safe and responsible recycling.

By following these simple steps, you're not just getting rid of old appliances – you're contributing to a more sustainable future. Whether you use a local recycling point, take advantage of a retailer's take-back scheme, or schedule a bulky waste collection, every electrical item recycled counts towards a cleaner, greener planet.