Where can I recycle or dispose of my microwave?

In Illinois, this common kitchen appliance does not require any special disposal measures and are not included in the short list of items that are banned from disposal in Illinois landfills.  Microwave ovens are not accepted at any of SWALCO’s collection programs and most curbside recycling programs do not accept them either. However, residents do have several options for managing microwaves including the following;

1. If the unit works, please check with your local charitable outlets, including local shelters.

2. Take it to your local metal scrap yard – you can find a few in our “Where Do I Recycle This” Directory OR type out “scrap yard” followed by your zip code into your choice of search engine and see what comes up. There may be a location closer to you.

3. If you’re buying a new microwave, check with the store to see if they’ll take the old one.

4. Call your waste hauler to inquire about disposal/recycling options.

Show All Answers

1. What do I do with latex paint?
2. Can I get my gasoline container back?
3. How do I properly dispose of sharps/needles?
4. How do I establish service, add or replace a collection container or inquire about billing matters?
5. Where do I dispose of alkaline batteries?
6. Who is my garbage collection vendor?
7. How do I properly dispose of pharmaceuticals, prescriptions, medications, and supplements?
8. How can I find out about future recycling events?
9. Why can't I drop off my HCW at any time?
10. What goes in my curbside bin?
11. What can I put in SWALCO's Clothing & Textile bins?
12. Where can I get rid of empty/old propane canisters?
13. What can I bring to the household chemical waste (HCW) events?
14. Where can I recycle or dispose of my microwave?
15. Dehumidifiers. Where can I recycle these?
16. Are there any Shredding Events scheduled?
17. I live in an apartment building or townhouse, how can I recycle?
18. Does SWALCO have resources that might be helpful to teachers, PTO members, Scout Troop leaders, educators or youth group leaders looking for resources, programs and activities?
19. What happens to my electronics once I drop them off at a collection?
20. Where do I take car and sump pump (lead acid) batteries?