How to Dispose of Computer Monitors
As technology advances, people are looking for monitors with better resolutions, higher pixel density, and improved color quality. If you’ve recently upgraded your computer monitor, you probably don’t want to leave your old one in storage forever. However, most cities and counties consider monitors and other electronics hazardous waste, so you can’t toss them in the dumpster. That leaves recycling as the only disposal method you can choose (other than letting the monitor sit in your basement forever).
Steps to Recycle Computer Monitors
1. Disconnect the Monitor
Monitors can use many different types of connections to a PC, including:
- HDMI
- VGA
- DisplayPort
- DVI
Note that even if the monitor says it is a VGA connection, the other end of the cord may plug into an HDMI port on the computer. The best way to find out what plugs into where is to turn off the computer, locate the cord plugged into the monitor, and follow it to the PC. Then, unplug it. There should also be a second cord that goes to a power source. Unplug that as well.
2. Clean the Monitor
Clean the monitor screen with a microfiber cloth and ammonia-free glass cleaner. The screen is a little more sensitive to chemicals, so you want to ensure you don’t use any abrasive cleaners or paper towels, which could scratch it. Also, clean the back of the monitor and the foot of the stand. You can use a baby wipe or a microfiber cloth with a gentle dish soap solution.
3. Consider Storage Options
While you’re waiting to drop off your monitor or have a recycling company pick it up, store it in a cool, dry place, like a basement or, if the monitor is small enough, in a closet. If you have a large desk, you can store the old monitor underneath it. If your computer is at your workplace, ask your IT department for storage advice.
4. Transportation
You can skip this section if the electronics recycling company picks up your monitor—their team will know how to secure the monitor properly for safe transportation. However, if you’re dropping it off, follow these tips:
- Ensure the monitor is balanced on a smooth surface.
- Wrap it in a towel or blanket to minimize potential impact.
- Keep it steady by putting it in a box or in another area in your car where it won’t move around a lot.
Drop Off Old Monitors at High Tech Recycling
If you’re in the metro Detroit area, you can donate your old monitors to High Tech Recycling. You can drop off your monitor any time during our business hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday). No appointment is needed for drop-offs.
If you can’t make it during our business hours, please contact us today to schedule a pickup.
Please note that we don’t accept CRT monitors or monitors that are broken or have been exposed to bodily fluids, insects, animals, food, or chemicals.
