Wondering What to Do With an Old TV? Here Are the Best Disposal Options
Got a big, old TV taking up space? Instead of putting it on the curb or tossing it in the trash, consider eco-friendly ways to dispose of your old television the right way.
Old TVs contain hazardous materials like lead and mercury that can harm the environment. In many areas, it’s even illegal to throw them out. If you’re wondering how to get rid of an old TV, there are safe and legal options available.
Whether you recycle it, donate it, or use a junk removal service, here’s how to dispose of your TV without sending it to the landfill.
How to Dispose of an Old TV:
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Recycling an Old TV
Throwing an old TV in the trash or leaving it on the curb usually sends it straight to a landfill. That’s a big problem due those hazardous materials we talked about before.
CRT TVs and even some flat screens contain toxic components that can pollute the soil, water, and air if not properly handled.
Recycling your old TV is a safer and more sustainable choice. It helps prevent harmful waste and allows valuable materials like copper, plastic, and steel to be reused in new products.
Many cities and retailers offer drop-off locations or host e-waste recycling events, making it easier than ever to get rid of your old television responsibly.
Recycling your TV helps recover valuable materials and supports job growth in the recycling industry. It’s a win-win for the planet and the economy.
Where Do I Recycle My TV?
1. Contact your waste management service.
Many waste disposal companies allow customers to drop off TVs at local recycling centers or through special recycling programs. Bring your ID, proof of residence, and a recent utility bill to access the site.
2. Ask your recycling company.
Your old TV might qualify for curbside pickup during your regular recycling schedule. If available, call ahead to request a TV pickup.
3. Visit a local recycling event.
Can’t get curbside pickup? Look for nearby e-waste or electronics recycling events. These are usually free and held a few times a year, but you’ll need to drop the TV off yourself.
4. Return it to the manufacturer.
Some manufacturers offer recycling or buy-back programs. Contact them directly to see if they’ll take back your old TV and recycle it responsibly.
Donate Your Old TV
Donating your TV helps keep it out of the landfill and supports others in your community. If your tube or OLED TV still works, most local charities will gladly accept it.
If your TV is over 10 years old, call ahead to make sure the donation center will take it before dropping it off.
Some charities offer pickup for donated items like TVs and other electronics. However, they often charge a fee and require you to schedule a pickup in advance, sometimes with a waitlist of a month or more.
It’s best to call or email national charities like Goodwill or the Salvation Army to see if they’ll pick up your old TV, household electronics, or other items. You may also have luck with smaller, local charities in your area.
Be sure to ask about any pickup requirements or fees for donated TVs and other items, especially if you live in a limited-service area.
Donating or Recycling a Large TV
If you’re donating a particularly large TV or other bulky items, the charity may need to provide specific documents first.
Apartments, condos, and hotels often require a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from any organization picking up large items. Contact your building manager or super at least a week before your scheduled pickup to allow time for the COI to be filed.
How To Dispose of a TV: Pickup & Removal
Dealing with junk and bulky items like an old TV can be one of the biggest headaches when moving or decluttering.
These aren’t things your regular trash service will take—but junk removal pros will. They handle the pickup and proper disposal of large, awkward items your city won’t touch.
Whether it’s a bulky TV, furniture, appliances, electronics, mattresses, or exercise equipment, a junk removal company makes it easy to clear it out responsibly.
Choosing the right company ensures your junk doesn’t just end up in a landfill—and gives you a cleaner home with less hassle.
Say Goodbye to Your Old TV the Easy Way
If you’re ready to get rid of an old TV, LoadUp makes it easy. We offer quick, reliable pickup services for TVs and other electronics, whether you need help bringing it downstairs or prefer a discounted curbside pickup option.
With upfront pricing, background-checked Loaders, and eco-friendly disposal practices, you can skip the long donation waitlists and high pickup fees. Just book online, choose a time that works for you, and we’ll handle the rest.
Join thousands of customers who trust LoadUp to haul away unwanted TVs and bulky items the smart, stress-free way.
Ready to clean your space with LoadUp? BOOK NOW ❯
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