Christmas often brings shiny new gadgets — phones, tablets, TVs, consoles, smart speakers, laptops, and more. But once the excitement settles, many of us are left with the same question: What should I do with the old tech I no longer need?

Before you shove it in a drawer (or worse, the bin), here’s how to responsibly — and sometimes profitably — pass on, recycle, or repurpose your old electronics in the UK.

1. First Things First: Wipe Your Data

Before doing anything, protect your personal info.

  • Smartphones & tablets: Perform a full factory reset after removing SIMs and memory cards.

  • Laptops: Wipe the drive and reinstall the OS.

  • Smart speakers & TVs: Sign out of accounts and reset them in settings.

This is crucial whether you’re donating, selling, or recycling.

2. Trade It In for Cash or Credit

Several UK retailers offer trade-in schemes that give you money or store credit for old tech — even if it’s not in perfect condition.

Popular options include:

  • Apple Trade In – for iPhones, iPads, Macs, and watches

  • Samsung Trade-In – for phones, tablets and wearables

  • CeX (http://WeBuy.com ) – pays cash or vouchers for a huge range of devices

  • Currys Trade-In – mainly phones and laptops

  • Game UK – consoles, games, and accessories

If your device is still usable, this is often the most financially rewarding option.

3. Donate to Give It a Second Life

If your tech works and is fairly up to date, consider donating it. Many charities refurbish devices and give them to people who really need them, including students, older adults, and those without digital access.

Popular UK charities accepting tech donations:

  • Barnardo’s

  • British Heart Foundation

  • The Restart Project

  • Computer Aid International

Double-check what each charity accepts, as requirements vary.

4. Sell It Online

If your device still has value, selling it can give it another life and put cash in your pocket.

UK-friendly selling platforms:

  • eBay

  • Facebook Marketplace

  • Gumtree

  • Vinted (for accessories like headphones and smart watches)

Tip: include the charger, box or case if you still have them — it increases resale value.

5. Recycle It Properly if It’s Truly Dead

If the gadget is broken, obsolete, or simply beyond saving, recycling is the environmentally responsible choice. Do not put tech in your household bins — electronics contain hazardous materials and precious metals that need specialist handling.

UK recycling options:

  • Local council recycling centres – most accept small and large electronics

  • Currys – accepts e-waste in store, no purchase needed

  • Apple & Samsung – offer take-back and recycling schemes

  • Supermarkets – many now have small electrical recycling bins

You may be surprised how much can be recycled, from cables to kettles.

6. Repurpose or Upcycle

Some items can be surprisingly useful around the house:

  • Old phones become dedicated music players

  • Tablets make great photo frames

  • Old laptops can often be given a new lease of life by installing a simpler, faster operating system

  • TVs and monitors can be repurposed for home offices or kids’ gaming setups

If you’re feeling creative, this can be a fun route.

7. Don’t Forget Accessories and Cables

We all have a drawer full of random chargers, dongles, and cables.
Most of these can be:

  • Collected at store recycling points

  • Donated to schools, charities or community groups

  • Sold in bundles on eBay

The Bottom Line

After Christmas, it’s easy for old tech to pile up — but the UK offers plenty of ways to ensure your devices are recycled, reused, or sent on to a new home. Whether you want to be sustainable, earn extra cash, or help others get connected, there’s an option for every type of gadget.

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