Recycling is not only great for the environment, but it can also be a lucrative side hustle. Many household items, electronics, and even everyday waste can be turned into cash with the right recycling programs. Whether you're looking to clean out your home or make some extra money, here are the best items to recycle for cash.
1. Scrap Metal
Scrap metal is one of the most profitable materials to recycle. Common metals like aluminum, copper, steel, and brass are always in demand. You can find scrap metal in old appliances, pipes, wires, and even soda cans. Check with local scrapyards or metal recycling centers to get the best prices.
Where to Recycle:
- Local scrap yards
- Metal recycling facilities
- Community recycling events
2. Aluminum Cans
Aluminum cans are one of the easiest and most common items to recycle for cash. Many states have bottle deposit programs where you can return cans for money. Even if your state doesn’t have a deposit program, scrap yards and recycling centers pay by weight for aluminum cans.
Tips for Maximizing Profit:
- Crush cans to save space
- Separate aluminum from other recyclables
- Collect in bulk for higher payouts
3. Electronics
Old electronics contain valuable metals like gold, silver, and copper. Many companies and retailers offer buyback or trade-in programs for used electronics, including phones, laptops, and tablets.
Where to Recycle:
- Electronic recycling programs
- Manufacturer trade-in programs (Apple, Samsung, etc.)
- Online marketplaces (Gazelle, Decluttr, eBay)
4. Ink Cartridges
Printer ink cartridges are another recyclable item that can earn you cash. Many office supply stores, including Staples and Office Depot, have buyback programs where they offer store credit or cash for used cartridges.
Where to Recycle:
- Office supply stores
- Manufacturer return programs
- Online cartridge recyclers
5. Used Car Batteries
Car batteries contain lead and acid, making them highly recyclable. Many auto parts stores and scrap yards will pay you for returning old car batteries.
Where to Recycle:
- Auto parts stores (AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts)
- Scrap metal recycling centers
- Battery recycling programs
6. Glass Bottles
Some states have bottle redemption programs where you can return glass bottles for a small cash refund. Even without a deposit program, some recycling centers pay for glass by weight.
Where to Recycle:
- State bottle return centers
- Local recycling centers
- Breweries and beverage distributors
7. Plastic Bottles
Like glass bottles and aluminum cans, plastic bottles can also be recycled for cash in states with bottle deposit programs. Collecting large amounts can add up over time.
Where to Recycle:
- State bottle return centers
- Supermarket redemption machines
- Local recycling facilities
8. Junk Cars
If you have an old or broken-down car sitting around, you can recycle it for cash. Many junkyards and auto recyclers will pay for your car based on its weight and usable parts.
Where to Recycle:
- Junkyards
- Auto salvage yards
- Online car buying services (Pick-n-Pull, Cash for Cars, Peddle)
9. Wine Corks
Wine corks may not seem valuable, but some companies collect and recycle them into new products. Programs like CorkClub and Recork offer incentives for recycling wine corks.
Where to Recycle:
- Cork recycling programs (Recork, CorkClub)
- Art and craft supply stores
- DIY upcycling projects
10. Clothing and Shoes
Certain brands and retailers offer trade-in programs for gently used clothing and shoes. You can also sell name-brand items to thrift stores, consignment shops, or online platforms.
Where to Recycle:
- Thrift stores (Goodwill, The Salvation Army, Plato’s Closet)
- Clothing recycling programs (Patagonia, H&M, Nike)
- Online resale platforms (Poshmark, ThredUp, eBay)
Recycling for cash is a great way to earn extra money while helping the environment. From metals and electronics to everyday household items, there are many opportunities to turn trash into treasure. Start collecting, find local recycling centers, and maximize your earnings today!