How to dispose of a microwave
Find your nearest microwave drop-off
Type your ZIP at /check for the verified nearest scrap-metal recycler, county e-waste site, or Best Buy.
Donation (if it works)
A working microwave under 10 years old is donatable at most thrift stores. Salvation Army, Goodwill, and Habitat for Humanity ReStore all accept countertop and over-the-range microwaves. Some thrift stores test the unit on intake — bring the turntable and the manual if you still have them. Donation receipts are tax-deductible.
Best Buy free e-waste
Best Buy is the largest U.S. consumer e-waste recycler and accepts countertop microwaves free at every store. Larger built-in or commercial models cost $30-50 for in-home haul-away through Best Buy's service. The store wipes any circuit boards and recycles the metal through its certified partner network.
Scrap-metal recycler
Microwaves are ~70% recoverable metal. Scrap-metal recyclers (search "scrap metal yard near me") accept microwaves free and sometimes pay $2-5 for the metal value, especially if you bring multiple appliances. You may need to remove the electrical cord; ask before you go.
County e-waste / HHW
All Hennepin + Ramsey county HHW facilities accept microwaves free for residents. They go to the universal-waste stream alongside computers, TVs, and other small electronics. Bring photo ID with a county address. The drop-off site handles the circuit-board recycling for you.
Built-in / over-the-range models
If you're replacing a built-in or over-the-range microwave with a new unit, the installer (Home Depot, Lowe's, or the appliance retailer) typically hauls away the old one free as part of the installation service. Confirm at purchase — not all installers include haul-away by default.
Frequently asked
Can I throw a microwave in the trash?
In most states, no. 25+ U.S. states classify microwaves as e-waste because of the printed-circuit board, magnetron, and capacitor. Trashing one violates state e-waste law. Use Best Buy, county HHW, or a scrap-metal recycler — all free for residents.
Where can I recycle a microwave for free?
Best Buy is the largest free e-waste recycler in the U.S. and takes countertop microwaves free at every store. County HHW or e-waste sites in Hennepin, Ramsey, and most counties also accept them free for residents with photo ID. Scrap-metal yards usually take them free too.
Does Goodwill take microwaves?
Most Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Habitat ReStore locations accept working microwaves under 10 years old. Call ahead — store-by-store policies vary. Bring the turntable and any accessories. Donation receipts are tax-deductible.
How do I dispose of an over-the-range microwave?
Easiest: the installer of your new microwave hauls the old one away free as part of installation (confirm at purchase). Otherwise: take it to county HHW, a scrap-metal recycler, or a Best Buy if it's still under 50 lbs. Over-the-range models are heavier than countertop — bring help.
Is there mercury in a microwave?
No. Microwaves do not contain mercury. The e-waste classification comes from the printed-circuit board (lead solder), the magnetron (iron + ceramic), and the high-voltage capacitor (which can store a dangerous charge even when unplugged — recyclers discharge it safely). Don't take one apart at home.
Can I scrap a microwave for money?
Sometimes. Scrap-metal yards pay by weight ($2-5 per microwave) if you bring multiple appliances. The transformer copper is the most valuable part. Don't disassemble at home — the high-voltage capacitor is dangerous even unplugged.