If your toaster is on its last legs, or if you’ve simply upgraded to a newer model, you might be wondering how to dispose of the toaster that you have used for many years and is now outdated.
While it might seem like a daunting task, there are a few different options for getting rid of an old toaster like donating, trashing, or selling it and so on.
The EPA’s 2018 report revealed that nearly 2.2 million tons of small electronic appliances, including toasters, were thrown away that year. So keeping that in mind whichever method you adopt, make sure to keep this planet clean from this wastage.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a few of those options for discarding a toaster, so that you can choose the best one for you. So keep reading for more information on this topic!
How To Dispose Of Toaster?
To properly discard a toaster, you can’t just toss it in the trash. So, how do you get rid of it?
Here are some options you can consider while doing it:
Give The Store Or Retailer A Call:
Some stores offer a recycling program for old appliances. You might get lucky and find a toaster that’s on trade-in, so you can save money on a new one. The store might not have an appliance recycling program, but they may be able to suggest somewhere to take them.
Send it to your local household hazardous waste facility:
Your local household hazardous waste disposal facility is a great place to get rid of your old, small electronic devices safely. The growing issue of electronic waste is especially prevalent in the United States.
In 2018, toasters were one of the most popular retail items in the US only (just think how much it would be around the globe), with approximately 17.4 million sales. Most of which are disposed of after a year or two of use. So discarding this gadget at your area’s HHW facility would be the best thing you could do for the environment.
Donate it to Non-Profit Organizations:
If your toaster is no longer functional, don’t toss it in the landfill! Community organizations such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army will often take donations of appliances like these. They’ll either fix them up and sell them at a reduced price or use them for parts.
All of their sales go towards donations, so when anyone purchases from Goodwill, you’re not only helping the person who bought the toaster–you’re helping all of the causes that Goodwill supports.
Donate To Local Charity:
If your toaster still works, you can upgrade to a better model by giving it away. There are endless opportunities to donate your goods. If you have any old toasters that you no longer need or want, consider giving them to your area’s charity or group. Most community centers, senior facilities, and churches are always in need of donations.
Get In Touch With The Certified Recycler:
You can find a list of certified recyclers of electronic waste online or by calling your local government office’s hotline. Some states in the US, like California, have a certification process for these types of businesses.
If you’re unsure of how to properly recycle appliances, contact your city’s trash collection service for more information. They know the best way to get rid of large items like refrigerators as well as smaller objects such as toasters.
Seek Out The Local Repairman Or Junk Shop:
You have the option to either sell your old appliance or give it away to a local store that specializes in fixing them. They could either repair the toaster and sell it as or take it apart for parts. If the repairman in your hometown is unable or unwilling to fix it, you can take it to the nearest junk shop.
Sell It Online:
Post it on Craigslist or Freecycle to give it away for free or sell your toaster. that rusty old toaster you have taking up space in your garage? Someone out there might want to buy it for parts, or an artist who likes to use found objects in their work.
When Should You Dispose Of Your Toaster?
Some of you may think that toasters are one of those appliances that last for many years. But what many don’t realize is that toasters have a few key parts that can wear out easily, making your toaster not work as well or even start a fire.
To be on the safe side, it’s best to know when to get rid of your toaster. Given below are some signs that indicate it’s time to say goodbye to your toaster.
The metal components on the inside are rusting:
Although it may seem harmless, Rust can be more dangerous than you think. Corroded bits of metal could fall into your food and create a choking hazard. Or cut your mouth. It’s best to get rid of rust at the first sign before it causes any further damage.
The toaster is smoking or smells like it’s burning:
This is a sign that something is wrong with your toaster. It could be that the bread is jammed in the toaster or that the coils are defective. In any case, unplug your toaster immediately and don’t use it until you figure out the problem.
The toaster isn’t working as well as it used to:
A frequent issue is that older models may have damaged heating components. If your toaster isn’t toasting bread evenly anymore, it might be time for a new one. Uneven toasting can be caused by many things, such as a build-up of bread crumbs or grease, but it could also be a sign that the coils are wearing out.
The cord is frayed or damaged:
If the cord is detaching from the appliance or if there are cracks or frays in the plastic, it’s time to say goodbye. Improperly cords can lead to dangerous electric shocks and kitchen fires. Simply wrapping the cord in the tape is not an adequate fix. If your toaster’s cords are faulty, it means the appliance is past its expiration date.
It is no longer sufficient for you:
Perhaps your toaster was ideal when you were flying solo, but now that you have a family, it’s time to get a larger model. Or if you find yourself cooking for bigger groups more often, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
It’s suggested that you get a new toaster every 3-5 years. But if you notice any of the signs above, it’s best to get a new one sooner rather than later. After all, as the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Upcycling of old Toasters
Toasters are one of the many appliances we use daily. They only last for 3-4 years. Therefore, you can recycle them into something new and useful.
If you’re bored with your current toaster and are looking for interesting ways to change it up, here are some ideas:
1. Make a toaster oven:
Attach an oven-safe pan to the top of your toaster using metal screws. Then use it to bake individual pizzas, quesadillas, or even cookies.
2. Use it as a planter:
Poke holes in the bottom of your toaster and fill it with dirt. Then plant succulents, cacti, or other small plants inside.
3. Create art:
Turn your toaster into a work of art by painting it, adding decals, or even covering it in fabric.
4. Make a jewelry holder:
Glue metal hooks to the inside of your toaster. Then hang necklaces, bracelets, and other jewelry from them.
The internet is overflowing with inspiration for how to upcycle old appliances. If you want to do this, know that you’ll have to remove all the electric parts first. If you don’t feel comfortable or lack the necessary skills and tools for the job, ask a professional to gut it out for you so that all you’re left with is an empty case.
FAQs
Can you recycle a toaster?
Yes, you can recycle your toaster. Toasters are made of steel and other metals, which can be recycled. However, toasters also have electrical components, which must be disposed of properly. You can either recycle your toaster through a local recycling center or by taking it to an electronics store.
Can You Put a Toaster in the Recycling Bin?
Yes, you can do it. Please ensure the toaster is clean and dry before placing it in the bin. Remember to put your toaster in the recycling bin made specifically for electronic waste. As if you simply throw it in the normal garbage bin it will likely end up in the landfill and also could cause a small fire.
Are Toasters considered e-waste?
Toasters, like many other electronic materials and appliances, become e-waste when they are no longer functional according to EPA. If an item needs electricity or batteries to work, it is considered e-waste once it reaches the end of its lifespan.
Conclusion
When you unplug your old toaster for the last time, you might think that getting rid of it would be easy. However, that’s not always the case. Many toasters end up in landfills, where they take up valuable space and release harmful toxins into the environment.
There are rules for disposing of appliances like toasters, and breaking these regulations could result in costly penalties. Play it safe and choose one of the methods mentioned above to dispose of your toaster and also check the rules and regulations in your jurisdiction.
Did you know that one of the easiest ways to help the environment is by properly recycling your old appliances, like toasters, instead of just tossing them in the trash? You can help make the world a more eco-friendly place by doing your part!
Thank you for reading!
My name is Ella Vicedomine and I’m the founder of this blog. The aim is to start this informational blog to guide people on how to dispose of waste things around in the house but in the right way.