You can recycle your vacuum cleaner at local electronics recycling centers, waste management facilities, or retailers that offer recycling programs for appliances.
Got an old vacuum cleaner gathering dust? Don’t toss it in the trash. Vacuum cleaners contain valuable materials that can be recycled, plus hazardous components that shouldn’t end up in landfills. This guide covers all your options for responsible vacuum cleaner disposal.
Why Recycle Vacuum Cleaners?
Modern vacuums contain:
- Plastic housings (often recyclable)
- Metal components (motors, bearings)
- Electronic circuit boards
- Potentially hazardous materials (lead solder, lithium batteries)
Recycling prevents these materials from contaminating landfills while recovering valuable resources. Many parts can be repurposed into new products.
Where to Recycle Vacuum Cleaners
1. Retailer Take-Back Programs
Many major retailers offer recycling services:
Best Buy Recycling
Best Buy accepts vacuum cleaners for recycling at most locations. Key details:
- Limit 3 items per household per day
- Free for most small appliances
- Stores in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan may charge $29.99 but provide a $30 gift card
Other Retail Options
Check with:
- Home Depot (some locations)
- Lowe’s (select stores)
- Vacuum specialty stores (often take back their own brands)
2. Local E-Waste Recycling Centers
Most communities have dedicated e-waste facilities. Examples:
Eco-Cycle CHaRM
This Colorado facility accepts vacuum cleaners and other hard-to-recycle items. Similar centers exist nationwide.
Municipal Recycling Yards
Many cities like Fort Collins offer hard-to-recycle materials yards. Call your local waste management department.
3. Scrap Metal Recyclers
If your vacuum is at least 50% metal (most are), scrap yards may accept it. As noted by Fort Collins recycling:
“Most any item with a motor or power cord has enough metal in it to be recycled as scrap metal.”
4. Manufacturer Take-Back Programs
Many vacuum brands offer recycling:
- Dyson – Free mail-back program
- Shark – Partners with recycling facilities
- Miele – Check local dealers
How to Prepare Your Vacuum for Recycling
- Remove the bag or canister contents (dispose properly)
- Clean any obvious debris
- Detach removable parts (check if recycler wants them separated)
- For cordless models: Remove lithium batteries if possible (these often need separate recycling)
What If Your Vacuum Still Works?
Consider these alternatives before recycling:
Donation Options
- Goodwill (some locations accept working vacuums)
- Habitat for Humanity ReStores
- Local shelters or charities
Selling or Giving Away
List on:
- Facebook Marketplace
- Craigslist
- Freecycle
Special Considerations
Commercial Vacuums
Business-grade models may require different handling. Check with industrial recyclers.
Vacuums with Lithium Batteries
These require special handling. Many Best Buy locations and battery specialty stores accept them.
Very Old Vacuums
Antique vacuums might have collectible value. Check with vintage appliance dealers.
Related Cleaning Equipment Recycling
While disposing of your vacuum, you might also need to recycle:
- Vacuum filters (some are washable/reusable)
- Brushes and rollers (often contain recyclable materials)
- Attachments (check metal content)
State-Specific Resources
Recycling rules vary by location. Check your state’s environmental protection website or use tools like DC’s “What Goes Where” database.
The Environmental Impact
Recycling just one vacuum cleaner:
- Prevents 5-10 lbs of waste from landfills
- Recovers 1-2 lbs of reusable metals
- Keeps hazardous materials from leaching into groundwater
With over 20 million vacuums discarded annually in the U.S., proper recycling makes a significant difference.