If you have an old computer monitor sitting in your garage or home office, you are not alone. As technology advances, many people upgrade to newer screens and are left wondering what to do with their old ones.
Throwing a monitor into the trash might seem easy, but it is one of the worst choices for the environment. Monitors contain toxic materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium that can cause long-term harm if they end up in landfills.
The good news is that you have several responsible options. You can sell, repurpose, or recycle your old monitor, depending on its condition. Each option helps reduce waste and contributes to a cleaner planet.
Why You Should Never Throw Away a Monitor
Before you decide what to do with your old monitor, it is important to understand why proper disposal matters. Older CRT monitors often contain several pounds of lead in their glass tubes, while modern LCD and LED screens may include mercury and other hazardous materials.
When thrown away, these materials can leak into soil and water supplies, harming wildlife and nearby communities. Recycling and reuse help prevent this damage while allowing valuable materials like glass, aluminum, and copper to be recovered and reused.
By handling your old monitor responsibly, you protect the environment and conserve natural resources.
Option 1: Sell Your Old Monitor
If your monitor still works, selling it is an easy way to give it a second life and earn some extra money.
Before listing it for sale, evaluate its value based on screen size, resolution, and brand. A lightly used 24-inch monitor might sell quickly, while an outdated CRT model could still interest retro gaming enthusiasts.
Where to Sell
You can try:
- Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for quick, local sales.
- eBay for higher-end or rare models.
- Reperch for safe resale of secondhand electronics and furniture.
Take clear, well-lit photos and include model details, specs, and proof that the monitor works. Be honest about any flaws, as transparency helps build buyer trust.
Selling helps extend the monitor’s life while keeping it out of the landfill.
Option 2: Repurpose Your Monitor
If your monitor still powers on but is not ideal for everyday use, repurposing it can be both creative and sustainable. There are several ways to make it useful again.
You can use it as a second display to boost productivity when multitasking or working from home. With a few tools, you can also turn it into a digital photo frame that displays your favorite images or art.
Another practical idea is to use it as a home security monitor by connecting it to your camera system for real-time viewing. If you enjoy DIY projects, consider turning your old monitor into a smart mirror that displays the weather, time, and daily updates using a Raspberry Pi.
Repurposing is a fun way to make old technology feel new again while avoiding unnecessary waste.
Option 3: Recycle Your Monitor Responsibly
If your monitor no longer works or is too outdated to sell, recycling is the most responsible choice. Recycling ensures that harmful materials are handled safely and valuable components are reused.
How to Recycle Properly
- Find a Certified E-Waste Recycler
Look for certified facilities with R2 or e-Stewards credentials. These certifications ensure ethical recycling practices. - Check Manufacturer Take-Back Programs
Brands like Dell, HP, and Samsung often have recycling programs that allow you to return old electronics. Some may even provide store credit toward new purchases. - Use Retail Drop-Off Programs
Stores such as Best Buy and Staples accept monitors for responsible recycling through verified partners. - Avoid Unverified or Free Disposal Services
Be cautious of unverified recyclers that export electronics overseas. Always check credentials to make sure your items are handled correctly.
If you are in the Bay Area, Phoenix, or Sacramento, Remoov can help. We partner with certified recycling centers to ensure your old electronics are processed safely and sustainably.
Bonus Option: Donate Your Monitor
If your monitor still functions but you no longer need it, consider donating it. Schools, libraries, and nonprofits often welcome working electronics.
Before donating, reset the monitor, include necessary cords, and make sure it is clean and operational. Donating not only helps others but also supports sustainability by extending the lifespan of your device.
How Remoov Makes It Simple
Recycling or selling old electronics can feel overwhelming, especially when you are unsure where to start. That is where Remoov comes in.
We make it easy to clear out unwanted electronics, furniture, and clutter in one visit. Our team picks up your items and sorts them into three categories:
- Resell: Valuable items are sold through our partner marketplace, Reperch, where you earn 50 percent of the proceeds.
- Donate: Working items are given to local charities and community organizations.
- Recycle: Remaining materials are sent to certified facilities for responsible recycling.
Remoov handles the process from pickup to placement, so you can declutter confidently, knowing your items are reused or recycled properly.
Why Responsible E-Waste Disposal Matters
Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste categories in the world. More than 60 million tons of e-waste are generated globally each year, but less than 20 percent is properly recycled.
By choosing to sell, repurpose, or recycle, you help reduce pollution, conserve resources, and support a circular economy where products are reused rather than discarded. Every small decision adds up to meaningful change.
Final Thoughts
Your old computer monitor does not need to end up in a landfill. Whether you decide to sell, repurpose, or recycle, each choice helps protect the planet and make better use of existing resources.
If you are not sure where to begin, Remoov can take care of the entire process. From collection and resale to recycling and donation, we ensure every item finds its right place.
Book your pickup today and let your old electronics find a new purpose while you enjoy a cleaner, clutter-free home.