Microwaves
What Should I Do With It?
Microwave ovens are classified as electronic waste, meaning they are strictly prohibited from standard household trash cans and curbside recycling bins. Because these common kitchen appliances are manufactured with complex circuitry, heavy metals, and other potentially toxic materials, sending them to a landfill risks serious environmental hazards as chemicals leach into the surrounding soil and water table. To dispose of a broken microwave safely, check for regional bulk junk pickup programs, drop it off at a local household hazardous waste site, or utilize retailer and manufacturer appliance trade-in programs. If your microwave is still functional, you can easily extend its lifespan by selling it, donating it to a local shelter, or ordering replacement parts online to perform basic repairs yourself.
Safety First
This item contains chemicals, heavy metals, or batteries that can be dangerous. Throwing it in your regular trash can cause fires, hurt sanitation workers, or leak harmful chemicals into the environment.
Before throwing this away, see if it can be fixed up, given to a friend, or donated to a local thrift shop. Keeping items in use is the best way to stop waste before it starts!
The recycling guidelines shown here are for general reference and educational purposes. Every city and town has different rules, sorting equipment, and recycling programs.
Please check your local town website or ask your local garbage collection program to make sure you are following your neighborhood's rules.