Computer Accessories Alternative ways to recycle Illegal in Garbage & Drains E-Waste Submit a Transportation Move Request to move electronic waste to B79. For items with DOE property tags, dispose through your Property Coordinator. Never Throw in the Trash Never throw away computer accessories, including power cables, mice, keyboards, thumb drives, modems or headphones. They are made of plastics and metals that can release toxic chemicals like dioxins in a landfill. Alternative Ways to Recycle Dell Reconnect Drop-Off and Mail-Back Program Dell Reconnect will accept most computer equipment from any brand for recycling at many Goodwill drop-off locations. They also have a free mail-back program if you are recycling Dell products or wish to purchase a new Dell product. Find out more. Microsoft Trade-In and Recycling Program Visit any Microsoft store location to trade in old devices, game consoles or games for Microsoft store credit. If your items no longer carry substantial value, they will be wiped of data and safely recycled. If you aren’t near a store location, you can request a prepaid postage label to mail in your items. Staples' Take Back Program Staples offers free, in-store recycling for unwanted electronics, including desktop computers and accessories, tablets, monitors, printers and other electronics. Locate your nearest Staples. Best Buy's Electronics and Appliances Recycling Program Best Buy will recycle computer accessories and many other home electronics for free. They also offer a trade-in program for more desired electronics. They accept up to three items per day from each household. Find a location. Did You Know? Computer Cables Are Toxic in Landfills A Greenpeace study showed that polyvinyl chloride (a type of plastic that’s harmful to human health) makes up about 44 percent of the plastic coating used to make cables. Laptop power cables also contain phthalates, which are harmful to the liver. For these reasons, make sure to recycle cables properly.