Return small electrical appliances
Small electrical appliances are devices that you can easily lift and carry. These include phones, chargers, keyboards, laptops, mice, coffee makers, kettles and shavers. You can often turn these appliances in at:
- Your municipality’s environmental district
- Electronics stores with a collection point
- Supermarkets or hardware stores with a special e-waste bin
Many stores are required by law to take in small electrical appliances for free, even if you’re not buying anything new. Be sure to check the terms and conditions for each store.
Return large electrical appliances
Large electrical appliances require a different approach. These include appliances such as washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers and large monitors. For these appliances, you can go to:
- The municipal waste disposal site
- A pick-up service when purchasing a new appliance
- Specialized collectors of electronic waste, such as IT Recycling.
Large appliances often contain refrigerants, metals and electronics that do not belong in ordinary waste. Proper disposal prevents environmental damage and makes recycling possible.
Collection point and drop-off points
There are thousands of collection points for electrical appliances in the Netherlands. Almost every municipality has an environmental street and many stores offer a drop-off point. You can quickly find a collection point near you on your municipality’s website or at Wecycle. Note that batteries and accumulators often have to be handed in separately. If you can, take them out of the device before you turn it in.
Discarding old or broken products just like that? Not a good idea
In many countries, including the Netherlands, it is illegal to dispose of electrical appliances with residual waste. They fall under the category of e-waste and must be collected separately and recycled according to the WEEE directive. When you recycle broken appliances, any harmful substances are removed. This is not without reason. Electrical appliances may contain batteries or other components that can cause fire hazards or explosions in waste treatment facilities if handled improperly.
In addition, valuable materials are lost. Think copper, aluminum and even small amounts of precious metals. By returning appliances separately, these raw materials can be reused.
What happens to my electronic waste after I turn it in?
After return, the recycling process begins. Appliances are first sorted and disassembled. Reusable parts are given a second life and materials such as metals, plastics and glass are separated. Harmful materials are safely disposed of and destroyed. This keeps the impact on the environment as low as possible and reuses raw materials in new products.
Return large and small appliances as a business? We are happy to help!
As a business, you often deal with larger quantities of electronic devices. Think of old laptops, phones, peripherals or servers. You want those processed safely, responsibly and according to the rules. IT Recycling helps companies collect, recycle and, if necessary, data destroy electronic equipment. We think with you, arrange transportation and ensure proper processing. That way, you can be sure that your e-waste will end up well.
Want to learn more about turning in electrical appliances as a business? Then click the button below to make an appointment or request a quote.