If you want to dispose of your old laptop, there are a number of options available to you. Before doing so, you should delete all personal data from the device.
Disposing of an old laptop: The preparations
Before you dispose of your laptop in a safe and environmentally friendly way, you should delete all data from the hard drive for your own protection. In particular, stored passwords should no longer be accessible.
- If the laptop is still working, the hard disk can be formatted. This will remove all data. Alternatively, you can clear your hard disk using the free CCleaner tool.
- If the device no longer turns on, remove the storage medium. You can then destroy the hard drive.
Dispose of your old notebook: How to get rid of electronic waste
Old televisions and other electronic devices are considered electronic waste. Since 2005, it has been illegal in Germany to dispose of electronic devices in normal household waste. Electronic waste includes all items that have a power cable, batteries or rechargeable batteries, are powered by electricity or generate electricity themselves. This also includes laptops, which you can dispose of as follows:
- Bulky waste: You can have electronic waste collected as bulky waste. The number of devices must not exceed what is considered normal for a household, usually no more than three devices of any one type. In most cases, the collection of bulky waste is free of charge, but this is regulated differently in the municipalities. You can get detailed information from your city administration or the local waste disposal company.
- Drop-off at the recycling center: Another option is to take your old computer to your local recycling center. Drop-off in typical household quantities is usually free of charge, but this may be handled differently in different municipalities. It’s best to check with your city government in advance.
- Return to the manufacturer: Many manufacturers offer take-back programs for old devices. It is therefore worth checking the manufacturer’s website to see if there is such a program and how you can participate.
- Give away: If your laptop is still working but no longer meets your needs, you could donate it. There are many organizations that accept used laptops. Labdoo.org, for example, provides used computers to schoolchildren around the world for educational purposes.
