Staples has an amazing recycling program. I have noticed that not a lot of people are aware of this program. So, I’m doing my due diligence here today and spreading the word. (If you prefer to watch video, scroll to the bottom of this post.)

Today we’re looking at all things you can recycle through Staples and then collecting the items around your home that fits that list. You can view the list here on Staples website. I have also created a convenient printable PDF for convenience, available for download here. (Note: the Staples website may be updated from time to time, where as this PDF is locked in time, so give that website a perusal just in case.) It’s quite surprising what all items they accept from ink cartridges, batteries, to all kinds of electronics and tech.

So the task today is to checkout the list and then go around your home and collect anything you’re no longer using. Then make that trip down to your local Staples store and feel great about knowing these items will be recycled and refurbished properly, protecting the environment.

For ongoing maintenance, I encourage you to have a box, basket, or bag to collect the items over time that you can then drop off there once or twice a year. Note, when you drop off to Staples, they need all the items separated – ink cartridges in one bag, batteries in another, old tech in another. I keep a small basket in my laundry room where I place all things for Staples recycling.

A bit of fine print:

A word about alkaline batteries. On this list from Staples it states that they do not take alkaline batteries. However, the location near me does. I did a little research and if you’re in Canada there is a website called https://www.call2recycle.ca/recycleyourbatteries/ where you can plug in your postal code and it will state where near by, you can recycle your batteries. My local Staples is on that list along with nine other locations near me. So this is a popular program. Please recycle your batteries, but just double check that the Staples near you takes them before dropping them off.

For items like old cell phones, tablets, laptops, etc, be sure to wipe the memory. A Google search can provide basic instructions on how to do this. (“How do I factory reset ________?” insert whatever item your reseting, if it’s a laptop, type in the version of Windows it uses.) Staples will make you sign a waiver that they are not responsible for personal information left on these items. Alternately, if you want Staples to wipe them clean, they will for a fee.

I am informing people of this program as I have experienced using it and from the information from Staples’ website. If Staples informs you differently from the information I provided here, they have the official say, it’s their program.

I welcome your ideas, thoughts, and questions in the comments below.

Remember you can share your journey with me and others by using hashtag #MarchMicroMinimizing and tag me on Facebook or Instagram using handle @suzannegouldenILC.

Here’s me talking about Staples Recycling Program!