Technology evolves fast—and printers are no exception. Whether you’re upgrading your office equipment or decluttering your home, you may find yourself wondering:“What should I do with my old printer?”
Old printers, even if outdated or non-functional, shouldn’t just end up in the trash. They contain plastic, metals, and potentially harmful components that need to be handled responsibly.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How to recycle or donate old printers
- Creative ways to reuse printer parts
- Where to find trade-in or buyback programs
- Why proper disposal is important for the environment
What Is an Old Printer?
An old printer refers to any printing device that is:
- Outdated or incompatible with new operating systems
- Slow, inefficient, or frequently malfunctioning
- No longer supported by manufacturer software or drivers
- Gathering dust due to lack of use
Examples include:
- Dot matrix printers
- Inkjet or laser printers from over 5–10 years ago
- Printers without Wi-Fi or cloud print capabilities
Even if they still power on, older printers may lack the features modern users need—such as mobile printing or wireless connectivity.
How to Recycle an Old Printer
Manufacturer Recycling Programs
Most major printer brands offer take-back or recycling programs:
BrandProgramHPHP Planet Partners return and recyclingCanonCanon Recycling ProgramEpsonRecycle via mail-in or drop-off partnershipsBrotherPrepaid shipping labels for returnsDellFree recycling via Dell ReconnectVisit the brand’s website, search “printer recycling,” and follow the steps.
Retail Drop-Off Locations
Popular stores that accept old printers for free recycling:
- Staples (offers discounts for recycling)
- Best Buy (accepts up to 3 electronics per household per day)
- Office Depot (may charge a small fee for large electronics)
Pro Tip: Call ahead to confirm they accept your specific printer model.
Local E-Waste Recycling Centers
Search for certified e-waste recyclers near you using sites like:
- Earth911.com
- Call2Recycle.org
- Municipal waste services
Look for facilities that comply with R2 (Responsible Recycling) or e-Stewards certifications for environmental safety.
Can You Sell or Trade In an Old Printer?
Yes—if your printer still works or has valuable parts.
Options to Sell:
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist
- eBay (for parts or collectors)
- OfferUp and Letgo
Trade-In Programs:
Some retailers and manufacturers offer credit or discounts for trading in old printers:
- Staples Trade-In Program
- Amazon Trade-In (limited to certain models)
- HP Upgrade Offers
Even if it’s just $10–$30, it’s better than throwing it away.
Creative Ways to Reuse an Old Printer
If you’re into DIY or tech, consider these creative uses:
Harvest Parts for Electronics Projects
Printers contain stepper motors, gears, power supplies, and sensors—great for:
- 3D printers
- Robotics projects
- Arduino builds
Convert into a Scanner (if still functional)
Some all-in-one printers still scan even if the print function is broken.
Repurpose the Shell for Storage
Turn the casing into:
- A desktop drawer organizer
- A quirky planter box
- Hidden cable storage
Use for Art Projects or Tech Sculptures
Recycle old parts for industrial art, steampunk decor, or educational models.
Why You Shouldn’t Throw Away an Old Printer
Throwing a printer in the trash is illegal in many areas and harmful to the environment.
ReasonImpactContains hazardous materialsMay leak lead, mercury, and other toxinsContributes to e-wasteOver 50 million tons of e-waste generated yearlyMissed opportunity to reuseMany components are recyclable or resellableAlways look for eco-friendly ways to dispose of or repurpose electronics.
Conclusion
If you’re asking yourself, “What should I do with my old printer?”, remember you have several responsible options:
- Recycle it through manufacturer or retail programs
- Sell or trade it in for store credit
- Repurpose it for DIY or tech projects
- Salvage parts for creative or educational use
By recycling or repurposing your old printer, you help the environment, reduce e-waste, and possibly make some cash or space back in return.
FAQs
1. Can I put an old printer in the trash?
No. Most states prohibit throwing electronics in regular trash due to hazardous components. Always recycle responsibly.
2. Where can I drop off my old printer for recycling?
Retailers like Staples and Best Buy, or local e-waste centers, often accept printers.
3. Do printer manufacturers offer recycling programs?
Yes. Brands like HP, Epson, Canon, and Brother offer mail-in or drop-off recycling.
4. Can I sell an old non-working printer?
Yes, especially for parts. Platforms like eBay or electronics forums often have buyers.
5. How do I remove personal data from an old printer?
Reset your printer to factory settings and remove any SD cards or memory storage before disposal.