Microwaves Are Generally Considered E-Waste
As an e-waste item, microwaves cannot be placed in your garbage because they are made with toxic materials and can leach dangerous chemicals into the environment. Dispose of microwaves with e-waste.
Alternative Ways to Recycle
Manufacturer Take-Back Programs
Some manufacturers offer take-back or recycling programs for their products. LG provides free shipping labels to recycle their electronics, and GE provides free appliance recycling when you replace an existing appliance with a new GE appliance. You can also mail non-working Hamilton Beach appliances back to them, but you are responsible for paying the shipping fee.
Best Buy's Electronics and Appliances Recycling Program
Best Buy will haul away large appliances for recycling when you purchase a replacement and have it delivered by Geek Squad® or Best Buy Home Delivery (fees apply). Appliances can also be hauled away for a greater fee without a replacement purchase.
Home Depot Rebate Finder
You can find what local rebates are available for different appliances by using Home Depot’s Rebate Finder tool. Home Depot also offers removal of large appliances when you purchase a new appliance and have it delivered.
Ways to Reduce
Repair It Yourself
Does your microwave have broken pieces that need to be fixed? Order replacement parts from a website such as PartSelect or AppliancePartPros.com so you can repair it yourself.
Ways to Reuse
Still Working? Donate It
If your microwave is still working, sell it for some extra cash, donate it to an organization such as Habitat for Humanity (drop off at their ReStore locations), or give it away using a platform such as Nextdoor, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
