Do pass the cords on to a friend or donate them to Good Will or another thrift store if the cords are still usable. Unfortunately, there aren’t too many ways to reuse extension cords other than for their intended purpose. It’s often the case that people staying there are in need of chargers. Tip: If you have an old cell phone charger you no longer use, you can call up local shelters to see if they will take them.
Most places that accept home electronics will take your old power cords but confirm with them first. You can also search the Earth911 recycling directory to find a recycling option in your area. Check with your local recycling facility or waste department to find out if and when they offer these events. If your city or county doesn’t have a dedicated e-waste recycler or facility, they may host an e-waste recycling event when you can bring in your e-waste. This will help reduce the number of random power cords you have lying around the house. So, any time you take electronics to your local e-waste recycler, be sure to bring the cords with you. Some facilities will only them when they come attached to a device that you’re recycling, such as a desktop computer. Best Buy is another popular e-waste recycler, and power cords are just one type of item they accept.īefore you head to your local e-waste recycler, be sure to give them a call and verify they will accept power cords on their own. Many communities now have dedicated e-waste recycling facilities, either run by private companies or by the local government. To recycle your old cords, e-waste facilities are your best option. While the insulator isn’t necessarily recyclable, the metal inside is valuable, so recyclers will strip out the wire and recycle it. The wires are surrounded by an insulating layer made of plastic or rubber. Most power cords contain wires made from copper or aluminum, which are highly recyclable metals. Most electronics recycling programs will accept all power cords that came with your old electronic devices, as well as any additional electric cords and cables. To recycle extension cords and any other power cords, look for an electronics recycler in your area. But if they no longer work, can you recycle them? Now, obviously, if these cords are still usable, you can donate them so someone else can use them. Spend a few minutes cleaning out your garage or the junk drawer, and you’re bound to find one or two power or extension cords you no longer use.