Printing technology helps us to communicate and express ourselves like never before. But the constant cycle of printer innovation results in outdated hardware and exhausted supplies cluttering your home. What to do with those old cartridges and printers? Below are several options.
Donate to schools or non-profit organizations
Your child’s school could benefit from your used-yet-working printer.
If your printer is in good working order, and not too old, consider donating it. Likely candidates include:
Your kids: Let them print school projects and artistic creations on their own printer, and prevent toner cartridges “surprises” (i.e.: no ink when you need to print out that big presentation for work).
Schools: Check with your child’s teacher or the local school district to find out their policy on donated equipment.
Non-profit organizations: Churches, pet shelters, soup kitchens—almost any of your favorite charities could probably use a relatively new printer. The donation is tax deductible, so be sure to get a receipt.
Resell old hardware online
A good photo is a must for selling equipment online.
Earn a little extra cash by selling your hardware online, or at a local computer swap. You may not earn a lot, but you’ll be helping out someone who can’t afford the latest and greatest, while simplifying your life and eliminating technological clutter.
Selling online: List it on an auction site such as eBay, or a classified ad sites like Craigslist. Be sure to include photos of your equipment for the quickest sale. Learn more about taking photos for selling online.
Computer swaps: Check listings in your local paper, or look online for computer hobbiest clubs. There is bound to be someone who can, at least, make use of your printer’s components.
Recycle hardware and inkjet cartridges
HP’ many recycling programs have processed over 920 million pounds since 1987.
If you can’t reuse or resell your equipment, there are several options for recycling it.
HP offers free HP inkjet or LaserJet cartridge recycling. Check inside cartridge boxes for return materials (available for some products and countries). Simply place the empty cartridge in the postage-paid envelope provided and mail back to HP.
HP’s Planet Partners program accepts all brands of computing, printing, and multifunction hardware. Use the online ordering tool to request recycling services, order postage-paid return shipping materials, or follow the instructions provided.
Trade any product, any brand, and get a quote—instantly— with the HP Trade-in Program online tool.
Earth 911 is a comprehensive web resource for those looking for places to drop off their used cartridges and printing hardware.
More on HP recycling initiatives
HP has recycled computer and printer hardware since 1987. In addition to the millions of products that recycled, HP collects approximately 2.5 million hardware products each year that are refurbished, resold, or donated.
HP has partnered with eBay to provide resources that make it easy to sell, donate, or recycle used computers and electronics. Learn more about the Rethink Initiative.
For more information on HP’s earth-friendly programs and recycling initiatives, read the HP environment FAQ.
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