By Rachelle Gordon June 16, 2015
We all have one – a tote bag or cardboard box in the back of our attics or garages filled with random cords and cables. From auxiliary cables for stereos to old computer cords for technology that no longer exists, there are many lonely, unused electronic cables in this world. However, unlike typical electronic waste, which mainly consists of unwanted electronic devices themselves, cords can be slightly more difficult to process. This is due to their casing, some of which contains PVC lining with lead. Luckily, with the number of e-waste recycling centers growing, more and more locations are accepting old or broken cables.If you find out that your local e-waste drop site does not take electronic cables or cords – or least certain ones – there are other options. Remember: There’s always reusing, donating or even money-making opportunities for every item, including vintage VCR plug-ins. Here’s a few different ways to get rid of those unwanted or broken electronic cables and cords without resorting to the garbage bin.
Take inventory before you begin
It may seem tedious to unravel all of the cords and cables in that box from the attic, but it will help you in the long run if you sort out the different types of cords you have.Divide into three different piles: broken, vintage or unwanted. The piles are just what they sound like – however, if you aren’t completely sure if a cord works or not, try to test it if you can. Vintage cables may seem worthless but there actually can be a market for them, depending on what you have. The same goes for those cables and cords that do work, but you just have too many and wish to thin out the herd.
Donate vintage or working cords
There are a few different ways to pass along your unwanted cords – remember the old phrase, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure?” This could certainly be one of those opportunities.Offer your unwanted cords to friends or family via social media – or to strangers on Craigslist or FreeCycle. A simple to way to get rid of those cables – and any other unwanted stuff – is to simply put it all on your curb and make a free listing on one of the listed websites. State the address, say no knocking on the door and the items will disappear within mere hours. Many retail stores, including Best Buy, also have drop boxes for old electric items – cables accepted.
Research buyback programs
Believe it or not, you may actually be able to get money for those so-called junk cords. Some of the cords carry value if they can be fixed – not to mention the fact that stripped wires often contain copper, which is salvageable. This website has a great list of organizations that buy old electronics and cables.Don’t forget about upcycling possibilities
So this may be a bit of a stretch, but you can DIY with anything – even old power cords. For cords that you want but cannot contain, there are lots of cute ways to hide the clutter. This blogger lists 25 different ways to organize household cords, many of which are “why didn’t I think of that” ideas. And yes, you actually can do stuff with the cables that are broken too! Make a weird belt for your steam-punk loving teen or use the rubber casing as bands.Where there’s a will, there’s a way!