How to dispose of a computer monitor depends on its age and type, but the answer is almost always electronics recycling. Old tube-style CRT monitors contain several pounds of lead in their glass. Older flat-panel LCD monitors often use fluorescent backlights that contain small amounts of mercury. Many states have electronics recycling laws that ban monitors from household trash, and most offer free or low-cost drop-off options.
Identify your monitor
| Monitor type | How to tell | Concern |
|---|---|---|
| CRT | Deep, heavy box shape | Lead in glass; implosion risk if broken |
| LCD with CCFL backlight | Flat panel, usually made before around 2010 | Small amount of mercury in lamps |
| LED-backlit LCD | Thin flat panel, most newer monitors | Electronics and circuit boards |
| OLED | Very thin, newer | Electronics |
Reuse or sell working monitors
Working flat-panel monitors are easy to sell, give away, or donate to schools, nonprofits, or refurbishers. CRTs have little reuse demand today.
Where to recycle
- State or manufacturer take-back programs, which many states require for computer equipment.
- County or city e-waste drop-offs and collection events.
- Electronics retailers, some of which accept monitors, sometimes with a fee for CRTs or large screens.
- Certified electronics recyclers, look for e-Stewards or R2 certification.
CRT recycling often carries a fee because handling leaded glass is expensive.
Handling CRTs safely
- Carry CRTs carefully with the screen facing your body or down, using two people for large ones.
- Do not open or break the case. CRTs can hold a high-voltage charge and the tube can implode.
- Transport upright and padded.
If a CRT breaks, avoid touching the glass with bare hands, ventilate the area, and ask your local e-waste program how to package it.
Data concerns
Monitors do not store personal files. The computer’s hard drive or SSD is where data lives. Some smart monitors with built-in apps may store login information, so reset them to factory settings first.
Cables and accessories
Remove video cables and power cords and recycle them with electronics or other cords. See old cables and cords.
State electronics laws
About half of U.S. states have electronics recycling laws, and many cover computer monitors. In those states, manufacturers often fund free collection programs, and trash disposal of monitors may be prohibited. Your state environmental agency’s website usually lists approved drop-off locations. In states without such laws, county e-waste programs and retailers are the main options.
Monitor arms and stands
Metal monitor arms and stands are scrap metal once the plastic covers are removed. Many are reusable, so consider selling or donating them with a working monitor.
How to dispose of a computer monitor FAQ
Can I throw a computer monitor in the trash?
Many states ban monitors from household trash. Recycle them as e-waste instead.
Do old CRT monitors contain lead?
Yes. CRT glass contains several pounds of lead.
Is there a fee to recycle a monitor?
Some programs charge, especially for CRTs. Many state programs are free.
Do monitors store personal data?
Standard monitors do not. Reset smart monitors with apps before recycling.
Where can I recycle a broken monitor?
County e-waste sites, certified recyclers, and some retailers accept broken monitors.
The bottom line
How to dispose of a computer monitor: sell or donate working flat panels, and recycle the rest through state programs, county e-waste drop-offs, retailers, or certified recyclers. Handle CRTs carefully because of lead and implosion risk, and expect a fee for CRT recycling in some places.
Guides and tools
Electronics recycling guide · Dump cost calculator · All material guides