How to recycle ink and toner cartridges
Recycle empty ink and toner cartridges and ink bottles through maker take-back programs, store drop-offs or local recycling, and pack used toner safely.
Used ink and toner cartridges are made of mixed plastics, metal and electronics, and they still contain some ink or toner, so they generally don't belong in household recycling bins. Many can be returned free of charge, and some are cleaned and refilled to be used again. This guide covers the main options, how to pack used supplies so they don't leak, and what to do with empty ink tank bottles.
Steps
Any printer
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Check the manufacturer's take-back program
Many printer makers run free return programs for their own cartridges, and some also accept items such as toner collection units or maintenance boxes. Some include a returns bag or prepaid label in the box. Look for a recycling or sustainability section on the manufacturer's official website, as what's accepted and which countries are covered vary.
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Use a store drop-off
Many office supply and electronics stores have collection points for used cartridges, and some give store credit or rewards points in return. Policies differ between chains and even between branches, including limits on how many they take, so check before you go.
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Try local recycling or electronics collection
Your local council or municipal recycling center may accept cartridges with electronic waste or as a separate item. Check your local authority's website for what it takes, and only put cartridges in a curbside bin if it says that is allowed.
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Consider reuse
Some schools and charities collect empty cartridges for fundraising, and some remanufacturers collect or buy back certain empties to refill. Reuse keeps a cartridge in service longer than recycling its materials.
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Pack toner cartridges safely
Put a used toner cartridge in the bag the new one came in, or another sealed plastic bag, before it goes in a box. Don't open it, try to empty it or shake out the remaining toner. Never burn toner cartridges or put them on a fire: toner is a fine powder that can ignite and flare up.
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Pack ink cartridges and waste ink boxes
Ink cartridges can still drip, so bag them or put them in the new cartridge's packaging with the outlet facing up. Maintenance boxes and waste ink containers from inkjets and ink tank printers hold used ink: seal them in the bag supplied with the replacement, or a plastic bag, and keep them level.
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Deal with empty ink tank bottles
When a bottle is empty, screw its cap back on, as a little ink always remains. The bottles are plastic but may not be accepted with ordinary recycling because of the ink residue, so check your local rules and whether the maker's take-back program accepts them. Don't rinse leftover ink into a sink or drain.
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Store empties until you have a batch
Keep used cartridges bagged in a box, away from heat and out of reach of children and pets, until you have enough to drop off or post together. It saves trips and packaging, and most take-back programs are happy to receive several at once.
Tips
- A cartridge's chip stores information such as ink levels and page counts, not copies of your documents, so there's nothing personal to wipe before you recycle it.
- If you buy remanufactured cartridges, check whether the seller takes empties back; some offer free returns.
- Laser drum units, toner collection units and fuser units are bulkier but are often accepted by the same programs. Bag them the same way as toner cartridges.
- If toner spills while you're packing, wipe it up with a dry cloth and wash skin or clothes with cold water rather than hot.
Common questions
Can I put ink cartridges in my household recycling bin?
Usually not. They contain mixed materials and leftover ink or toner that most curbside schemes can't process. Use a take-back program, a store drop-off or your local recycling center instead.
Is it safe to throw a toner cartridge in the trash?
If there's no recycling option where you live, check your local rules first. Seal the cartridge in a bag so toner can't escape, and never burn it.
Do take-back programs accept other brands?
Manufacturer programs usually accept only their own cartridges. Store and local collection points are more likely to take any brand.