Dmytro Angelovskyi / Shutterstock.com Tablets Alternative ways to recycle Illegal in Garbage/Recycling & Drains Recycle with E-Waste Dmytro Angelovskyi / Shutterstock.com Tablets require special handling. Most electronic tablets are known to contain one or more of the following hazardous chemicals: lead, brominated flame retardants, and chlorine. Although these chemicals are only present in small amounts, hazardous chemicals do leach out of electronics sitting in landfills. ⚠ PLEASE NOTE: Physically broken e-waste items (with broken physical parts / screens) should be treated and disposed as hazardous waste, as these items may contain dangerous substances such as mercury. SSF Scavenger does not accept mixed/broken e-waste as part of their e-waste collection / recycling program. Remove Personal Information Before donating or recycling a tablet, remove all sensitive and personal information from the device. Deleting saved items won’t erase this information completely. Visit a local software store to pick up software to wipe the device entirely. Alternative Ways to Recycle Apple Store Gift Card Apple runs a reuse and recycling program for unwanted iPhones, iPads, Mac or PC computers and displays. Depending on the condition of your electronics, Apple will give you credit if they have monetary value. Find out more. Microsoft Trade-In and Recycling Program Microsoft accepts old devices, game consoles or games for Microsoft store credit. If your items no longer carry substantial value, they also have a recycling program. HP Hardware Recycling HP accepts tablets and electronics hardware from various manufacturers for free mail-in recycling. Request a mail-back label here. Best Buy Recycling Program Best Buy will recycle tablets and other home electronics for free. They accept up to three items per day from each household. They also offer a trade-in program for more desired electronics. Find a location here. Staples' Take Back Program Staples offers free, in-store recycling for unwanted electronics, including desktop computers, tablets, monitors, printers and other electronics. Locate the nearest Staples. Gazelle Trade-In Program Gazelle refurbishes and resells electronics, including cell phones, iPads, and Macbooks. Get a quote for your item, ship it free of charge and receive payment as soon as they’ve inspected it.