When most people think of e-waste, they picture old laptops, dead desktops, or tangled cords in a junk drawer. But the truth is this: over 60% of the tech waste Tulsa households generate each year comes from items people don’t realize are recyclable.
UpcycleTech accepts far more than the standard computers. Recycling these overlooked items keeps toxic materials out of landfills, protects your data, and gives usable parts a second life.
Before you toss anything in the trash, check out these 12 surprising tech items you can recycle today with UpcycleTech.
1. WiFi Routers & Modems
Most people think these have “no value,” but the components inside can be harvested for reuse.
2. Smart Home Devices (Alexa, smart plugs, cameras)
Even broken smart devices contain circuit boards, sensors, and plastics that shouldn’t go to landfill.
3. Office Phones, VoIP Phones & Desk Handsets
Still sitting in a box from that last office upgrade? We take them — cords and all.
4. Keyboards, Mice & Small Peripherals
Mechanical keyboards can be stripped for valuable components.
5. Gaming Consoles & Controllers
Even if they’re fried or outdated — Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, Steam Deck, controllers, chargers.
6. External Hard Drives & USB Drives
We securely destroy your data.
7. Cable Boxes, DVRs & Streaming Devices
Old Roku? Broken Apple TV? Yes, all accepted!
8. Fitness Watches & Wearable Tech
Fitbits, Garmin, Apple Watches — even if cracked.
9. Printers & Scanners
Anything from office printers to compact tiny photo printers.
10. Old Chargers, Brick Adapters & Random Cables
Cables contain copper and materials that can be reused.
11. Bluetooth Speakers & Portable Audio Gear
From your home surround system to the tiniest of speakers.
12. Household Tech You Forgot Was “Tech”
This is the category that shocks people. UpcycleTech can recycle:
- Digital picture frames
- Old thermostats
- Baby monitors
- Car GPS units
- Electric toothbrush bases
- Battery powered tools
Why Recycling These Items Matters
Most of these overlooked devices contain:
- Heavy metals
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Plastics that never break down
- Recoverable parts that reduce new manufacturing waste
Recycling through UpcycleTech helps NorthEastern OK reduce landfill pollution, keeps data safe, and supports the circular tech economy.
How to Drop Them Off (Or Schedule a Pickup)
UpcycleTech makes it crazy simple:
✔️ Simplified drop offs — quick & easy
✔️ Business pickup — scheduled at your convenience
✔️ Secure data destruction for anything that stores information
✔️ Responsible recycling & reuse — nothing ends up overseas or in landfills