Best ways to dispose of CDs & DVDs (best → last resort)
Mail-inFor recycling
CDs and DVDs are #7 polycarbonate and arenʼt curbside-recyclable, but mail-in programs (CD Recycling Center of America, GreenDisk) take discs, cases, and sleeves and recycle the plastic.
Donate/ReuseIf they still play
Libraries, thrift stores, and used-media shops take working CDs/DVDs — reuse beats recycling.
Curbside trashLast resort
If you canʼt mail them in or donate them, discs go in the black trash cart — not the recycling cart.
How to prepare it
Recycle the paper inserts/booklets with mixed paper.
Jewel cases are often #6 plastic — check your program; many are trash. DVD cases (#5) may be accepted.
Don't
Donʼt put CDs/DVDs in the curbside recycling cart — the polycarbonate is the wrong plastic and contaminates the load.
Shred or destroy discs with personal data before recycling.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.
Mail-in (for recycling): CDs and DVDs are #7 polycarbonate and arenʼt curbside-recyclable, but mail-in programs (CD Recycling Center of America, GreenDisk) take discs, cases, and sleeves and recycle the plastic.
Can you put CDs & DVDs in the trash?
In many areas yes — but recycling or a drop-off is better. Check your local program.
Where can I recycle CDs & DVDs near me?
Search a drop-off with the Earth911 locator or "CD DVD recycling mail-in near me." Acceptance varies by city, so confirm with your local program.