Best ways to dispose of VHS tapes (best → last resort)
Mail-inFor recycling
VHS tapes are mixed plastic plus a magnetic tape ribbon, so they are not curbside-recyclable. Mail-in e-waste programs (GreenDisk and similar) accept tapes, cases, and cords and recycle the plastic.
Donate/ReuseIf they still play
Thrift stores, used-media shops, and some libraries take working tapes — reuse beats recycling.
Curbside trashLast resort
If you cannot mail them in, tapes go in the black trash cart — never the curbside recycling cart.
How to prepare it
Recycle the paper sleeves/inserts with mixed paper.
Erase or destroy any personal home recordings first.
Don't
Do not put VHS tapes in the curbside recycling cart — the tape ribbon tangles sorting equipment.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.
Mail-in (for recycling): VHS tapes are mixed plastic plus a magnetic tape ribbon, so they are not curbside-recyclable. Mail-in e-waste programs (GreenDisk and similar) accept tapes, cases, and cords and recycle the plastic.
Can you put VHS tapes in the trash?
In many areas yes — but recycling or a drop-off is better. Check your local program.
Where can I recycle VHS tapes near me?
Search a drop-off with the Earth911 locator or "VHS tape recycling mail-in near me." Acceptance varies by city, so confirm with your local program.