Your Guide to Electronics Recycling in Madison, WI: Top 7 Options (2025)

That old laptop, the dusty monitor in the basement, and that tangled mess of cords: we all have them. In Wisconsin, it's illegal to simply toss electronics in the trash. This isn't just about compliance; it's about protecting our local environment from hazardous materials and recovering valuable resources. But navigating the rules, fees, and locations for proper electronics disposal can be confusing and time-consuming.

This guide simplifies the entire process, breaking down the seven best options for electronics recycling in Madison, WI. We've done the research so you don't have to, providing a clear, actionable roundup of the most reliable services available for both residents and local businesses.

Whether you're a resident looking for a free drop-off point, a business needing certified data destruction and a partner to meet ESG goals, or someone who prefers the convenience of a retail take-back program, this list has a solution for you. We will cover everything from official city and county programs like the City of Madison Streets Division and Dane County Clean Sweep to specialized recyclers and national retailers such as Best Buy. Each entry includes direct links and key details, ensuring you can dispose of your e-waste responsibly, securely, and with complete confidence.

1. City of Madison Streets Division — The Go-To Free Option for Residents

For residents of Madison, the most direct and budget-friendly path for responsible electronics recycling is through the official City of Madison Streets Division program. In a significant move to increase accessibility, the city suspended all fees for electronics drop-offs in 2025, making this a completely free service for households. This initiative simplifies the process, removing the cost barrier that often prevents proper disposal of old tech.

The City’s website is your primary resource for leveraging this service. It provides clear, up-to-date information on drop-off site locations, operating hours, and a comprehensive list of accepted items. The program partners with Universal Recycling Technologies (URT), an e-Stewards and R2 certified recycler, ensuring that your devices are processed according to the highest environmental and data security standards. This partnership gives residents peace of mind, knowing their sensitive information is handled securely and materials are recycled responsibly.

What You Need to Know

To use the drop-off sites, you must provide proof of residency, such as a driver's license or a recent utility bill with a City of Madison address. This service is strictly for residential e-waste; businesses are not permitted to use these facilities and must seek other commercial recycling options.

Accepted Items Include:

• TVs and computer monitors (all types)
• Computers (desktops, laptops, tablets)
• Printers, scanners, and fax machines
• Keyboards, mice, and computer speakers
• DVD players, VCRs, and gaming systems
• Cell phones, chargers, and cords

Pro Tip: Before you go, visit the Streets Division website to double-check the hours for your preferred drop-off location, as they can vary by season. It’s also wise to organize your items beforehand for a quicker and smoother drop-off experience.

While this program stands out for being free and reliable, its key limitation is the need for self-transport. If you have large or heavy items like a console TV, you will need to arrange for your own vehicle and assistance to get it to the site.

2. Dane County Clean Sweep — The One-Stop for E-Waste and Hazardous Materials

For Dane County residents living outside Madison city limits or anyone needing to dispose of both electronics and household hazardous waste in one trip, Dane County Clean Sweep is the ideal solution. Located at the Dane County Landfill campus, this year-round program provides a comprehensive service that simplifies the often complex process of responsible disposal. It’s the perfect option when you're cleaning out a garage or basement and find old electronics alongside items like lithium batteries, paint, or chemicals.

The Clean Sweep website is an essential resource, offering clear guidelines on accepted materials, fee structures, and operating hours. Unlike some programs, it accepts items from all Dane County residents, K–12 schools, and even offers an appointment-based system for Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs) from businesses. This county-run facility ensures that all collected items are managed according to strict environmental and safety regulations, giving you confidence that your e-waste and hazardous materials are handled properly.

What You Need to Know

To use the facility, you must be a Dane County resident, and proof may be required. While many electronics are accepted, it's crucial to check the website for the current fee schedule, as charges may apply to certain items like TVs and monitors. This integrated approach to waste management is a key differentiator, making it a highly practical choice for comprehensive home cleanouts.

Accepted Items Include:

• TVs, computers, and monitors
• Printers, copiers, and fax machines
• Cell phones, laptops, and tablets
• VCRs, DVD players, stereos, and gaming consoles
• Unique to this facility: Rechargeable/lithium batteries, household chemicals, pesticides, and paints

Pro Tip: Before heading out, make a complete inventory of what you’re bringing. Visit the Dane County Clean Sweep website to confirm the fees for your specific electronics and to ensure any hazardous materials you have are on their accepted list. This preparation prevents surprises and ensures a smooth drop-off process.

By combining services, Dane County Clean Sweep provides a unique value for those tackling more than just old gadgets. The main drawback is the potential for fees and the fact that it does not accept electronics from most commercial sources, which must find alternative-certified recyclers.

3. Resource Solutions Corp. (RecycleThatStuff.com) — Your Local Business Partner

For Madison residents and businesses seeking a dedicated, local recycling partner, Resource Solutions Corp. offers a versatile and accessible solution. Operating under the user-friendly name RecycleThatStuff.com, this Madison-based certified recycler provides a straightforward drop-off service, periodic collection events, and tailored options for commercial clients, making it a strong choice for those who need more flexibility than municipal programs offer. Their model is ideal for anyone looking for reliable, professional electronics recycling in Madison, WI, especially for companies aiming to meet their ESG and CSR goals.

The company’s website, RecycleThatStuff.com, serves as a hub for all essential information. It clearly lists business hours for its Madison drop-off location, including convenient Saturday hours, and maintains an updated schedule of community collection events. Unlike free municipal services, Resource Solutions Corp. can accommodate both households and businesses, providing a crucial service for companies needing to dispose of IT assets responsibly. They can provide essential documentation for sustainability reporting and offer services like corporate recycling drives, turning your e-waste disposal into an easy ESG win. While some items incur a fee, the process is transparent, with direct contact options available for quotes on specific items like large TVs or bulk disposals.

What You Need to Know

The primary service is a public drop-off site where no appointment is needed during business hours, simplifying the process for busy individuals. This makes it an excellent alternative for those who can't make the limited hours of other sites or for businesses that are ineligible for city services. Fees typically apply to items that are more costly to process, such as CRT monitors and most televisions, so it’s best to call ahead for a quote if you have these items.

Accepted Items Include:

• Computers (laptops, desktops) and servers
• Monitors and TVs (fees usually apply)
• Printers, copiers, and fax machines
• Keyboards, mice, and peripherals
• Stereos, DVD players, and VCRs
• Cell phones, cables, and chargers
• Small household appliances

Pro Tip: Check the "Recycling Events" page on their website frequently. Attending one of their local collection events can be a convenient way to recycle your electronics without having to drive to their main facility, especially if an event is happening in your neighborhood or workplace.

Their ability to serve both residential and commercial needs sets them apart. However, the key trade-off for this flexibility is the cost associated with certain items and the requirement that you must transport everything yourself. For a better understanding of what happens to your devices, you can learn more about recycling obsolete computers and laptops to see how certified recyclers handle data and materials.

4. Wisconsin DNR — E-Cycle Wisconsin (Find a Recycler)

For those looking beyond a single program or needing options for specific items, the official E-Cycle Wisconsin website, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is an indispensable statewide resource. This platform serves as a central, authoritative directory for finding registered e-waste collection sites, mail-back programs, and certified processors. It empowers residents and businesses to compare local options for electronics recycling in Madison, WI, and the surrounding areas, ensuring they find a service that meets their needs.

The site’s primary tool is its filterable directory, which allows you to locate licensed collectors near you. It provides direct links and contact information, though it's important to note that the DNR itself does not set fees or hours. Instead, it acts as a verified clearinghouse, connecting you with third-party recyclers. This is particularly useful for businesses, schools, and other non-household entities that are not eligible for municipal programs and need to find commercial-grade recycling services.

What You Need to Know

The E-Cycle Wisconsin directory is your best bet for finding specialized services or simply checking for alternatives when city drop-off sites are closed or inconvenient. Since the website links out to independent collectors, you must contact each location directly to confirm their pricing, accepted items, and operating hours. This step is crucial to avoid a wasted trip.

Accepted Items Include (Varies by Collector):

• Computers (desktops, laptops) and computer monitors
• Televisions
• Printers, scanners, and fax machines
• Computer peripherals (keyboards, mice, speakers)
• DVD players, VCRs, and other video devices
• Cell phones and other small electronics

Pro Tip: Use the E-Cycle Wisconsin site to create a short list of potential recyclers in the Madison area. Call two or three to compare fees for larger items like TVs, as pricing can vary significantly from one registered collector to another.

The platform is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to understand the broader landscape of electronics disposal, offering more choices than a single municipal program. For those interested in exploring various approaches to managing e-waste, you can learn about more options for sustainably disposing electronic waste to make an informed decision. While its main drawback is the need for extra research, its comprehensiveness makes it a powerful tool for responsible recycling.

5. Best Buy — In-store Recycling, Haul-away, and Recycle-by-Mail

For a versatile electronics recycling option in Madison, WI, that combines retail convenience with multiple disposal methods, Best Buy's program is a strong contender. This national retailer leverages its physical stores to offer accessible in-store drop-offs daily, making it easy to recycle while running other errands. Their program stands out by providing a multi-faceted approach, including home haul-away services for large appliances, a trade-in program for valuable items, and even a mail-in option for smaller gadgets.

The Best Buy website clearly outlines its national recycling policies, though it's important to verify specific details with the Madison locations as state laws and store policies can cause variations. The program is designed for flexibility; you can get value back for a working laptop through trade-in, pay a fee to have an old TV hauled away when a new one is delivered, or simply drop off a few old cables for free. This mix-and-match service model caters to a wide range of recycling needs, from a single item to a complete tech overhaul.

What You Need to Know

Best Buy's in-store drop-off program is generally limited to three items per household per day, and while many smaller electronics are accepted for free, larger items like TVs and monitors often have a recycling fee. Their Standalone Haul-Away service allows you to schedule a pickup for major appliances and TVs without a new purchase, providing a crucial option for those unable to transport bulky items themselves.

Accepted Items Include:

• TVs and monitors (fees typically apply)
• Laptops, desktops, and tablets
• Printers, keyboards, and mice
• Cell phones, chargers, and cords
• Video game consoles and accessories
• Vacuums, fans, and other small appliances

Pro Tip: Before heading to the store, use the trade-in calculator on Best Buy’s website. You might discover that your old device qualifies for a gift card, turning your e-waste into a discount on your next purchase.

The primary advantage of Best Buy is its accessibility and the variety of services offered under one roof. However, the potential for fees and the daily item limit for in-store drop-offs mean it may not be the most cost-effective solution for a large-scale cleanout. Always call your local Madison store to confirm fees and accepted items before you go.

6. Staples — In-store Tech Recycling and Business Solutions

For those seeking a quick and convenient option for smaller electronics, Staples offers a surprisingly robust, free in-store recycling program. As a major national retailer with locations in and around Madison, it provides an accessible drop-off point for common home and office tech without needing an appointment or special trip. This makes it an excellent choice for decluttering items like old laptops, printers, and phones during a regular shopping visit.

The Staples website details their sustainability commitment, outlining what you can bring to their service desk for free. The program is brand-agnostic, meaning they accept tech regardless of where it was purchased. Beyond just electronics, they also serve as a one-stop-shop for recycling rechargeable batteries, ink and toner cartridges, and even writing instruments, simplifying multiple recycling needs at once. For companies, Staples Business Advantage offers more comprehensive solutions, including mail-back boxes and scheduled pickups for larger quantities of e-waste.

What You Need to Know

This free service is intended for consumers and small businesses, with a daily limit of seven items per customer. While most common office electronics are accepted, there is a significant exclusion: televisions are not accepted at their retail locations. Store managers also reserve the right to refuse items that are damaged or appear unsafe. No purchase is necessary to use the recycling service.

Accepted Items Include:

• Laptops, tablets, and eReaders
• Desktop computers and all-in-ones
• Printers, scanners, and fax machines
• Monitors (excluding TVs)
• Keyboards, mice, and computer speakers
• Mobile phones, GPS devices, and digital cameras
• Shredders, routers, and external hard drives

Pro Tip: Before heading to a Madison-area Staples, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm their daily capacity and any specific store policies. Bundling smaller items like cables and mice together can make your drop-off faster and more efficient for the store associates.

This program’s main advantage is its convenience for everyday electronics recycling in Madison, WI, especially for home-office equipment. The primary limitation is its inability to handle televisions, which are a common and bulky form of e-waste for households.

7. Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin — Dell Reconnect Partner

For those looking to combine donating household goods with recycling old electronics, Goodwill of South Central Wisconsin offers a highly convenient and free solution through its partnership with the Dell Reconnect program. This collaboration turns many local Goodwill stores into a one-stop drop-off point for both your unwanted clothing and your obsolete tech, creating a "Recycle for a Cause" opportunity. It’s a fantastic way to declutter responsibly while supporting Goodwill’s mission to provide training, employment, and supportive services for people with disabilities and other challenges—turning your e-waste into hope for the community.

The Goodwill SCWI website details what items can be donated and provides a store locator to find your nearest participating location. The Dell Reconnect partnership ensures that all electronics are handled responsibly by Dell’s certified recycling partners, who adhere to strict environmental and data security standards. This gives you confidence that your old computers and peripherals will be recycled properly, with hazardous materials managed safely and valuable resources recovered.

What You Need to Know

This service is completely free for accepted items and is available year-round during regular donation hours. While most Goodwill stores in the Madison area, including locations in Monona, Sun Prairie, and Verona, participate, it's crucial to note that the Goodwill Outlet is excluded. The program is designed for residential electronics, so it's best to call ahead if you have a large quantity of items.

Accepted Items Include:

• Computers (desktops and laptops), tablets, and e-readers
• Monitors (all types)
• Printers, scanners, and fax machines
• Keyboards, mice, and hard drives
• Cords, cables, and webcams
• Gaming systems and cell phones

Pro Tip: Before heading out, visit the Goodwill SCWI website to confirm the list of accepted electronics. Some items, like certain TVs or large appliances, are not accepted, so checking first will save you a trip. This is an ideal option for anyone already planning a donation run to Goodwill.

The primary benefit of this electronics recycling in Madison WI option is its widespread accessibility and the bonus of supporting a local charitable cause. However, the main limitation is the list of non-accepted items, particularly larger or older-style TVs. Always verify with your specific Goodwill location before loading up a heavy device.

Electronics Recycling in Madison, WI — 7-Provider Comparison

Service	🔄 Implementation Complexity	⚡ Resource Requirements	📊 Expected Outcomes	💡 Ideal Use Cases	⭐ Key Advantages
City of Madison Streets Division — Electronics Recycling	🔄 Low — year‑round drop‑off; proof of residency required	⚡ Low for residents (no fee in 2025); self‑transport needed	📊 Strong local diversion and data security (certified recycler) — ⭐⭐⭐	💡 Madison residents dropping off TVs, computers, small electronics	⭐ No charge (2025), certified recycler, clear accepted‑items lists
Dane County Clean Sweep	🔄 Medium — landfill campus operations; appointments for some users/businesses	⚡ Moderate — accepts hazardous items (lithium batteries); fees may apply	📊 High for combined hazardous + electronics disposal — ⭐⭐⭐	💡 County residents or K–12 schools bundling electronics with hazardous waste	⭐ One‑stop for hazardous materials and electronics; county guidance
Resource Solutions Corp. (RecycleThatStuff.com)	🔄 Medium — local public drop‑off and periodic events; business services available	⚡ Moderate — fees common for large items (TVs); no curbside pickup	📊 Good diversion and business support (local processor) — ⭐⭐	💡 Businesses seeking an ESG partner; residents needing flexible local drop-off	⭐ Serves households and businesses; provides CSR documentation
Wisconsin DNR — E‑Cycle Wisconsin (Find a Recycler)	🔄 Low (directory/service) — searchable statewide listings; requires contacting providers	⚡ Low for users (information service); provider fees/hours vary	📊 Variable outcomes — helps locate licensed collectors and compare options — ⭐⭐	💡 Finding licensed collectors, mail‑back programs, or business processors statewide	⭐ Authoritative, up‑to‑date statewide directory and filters
Best Buy — In‑store Recycling, Haul‑away, Recycle‑by‑Mail	🔄 Low — retail drop‑off/mail/pickup options with store limits and policies	⚡ Moderate — some items free, others fee‑based; home haul‑away available	📊 Good convenience and trade‑in opportunities; fees/limits affect volume — ⭐⭐	💡 Non‑drivers needing pickup/mail options or users seeking trade‑in value	⭐ Multiple access modes (drop‑off, pickup, mail) and trade‑in program
Staples — In‑store Tech Recycling and Business Solutions	🔄 Low — daily in‑store drop‑off; business mail‑back and pickups exist	⚡ Low for small electronics; TVs excluded and store quantity limits apply	📊 Good for small/home‑office items and consumables (batteries/ink) — ⭐⭐	💡 Quick drop‑off for small devices, batteries, and ink/toner from homes or small offices	⭐ Convenient for small items; business mail‑back and pickup options
Goodwill SCWI — Dell Reconnect Partner	🔄 Low — year‑round free drop‑off at most regional Goodwill locations	⚡ Low — generally no fees for accepted items; verify exclusions (large TVs)	📊 High accessibility and free diversion for accepted computers/peripherals — ⭐⭐⭐	💡 Residents seeking no‑fee local drop‑off and a way to give back to the community	⭐ Free recycling via Dell Reconnect; supports a local charitable mission

Making the Right Choice for Your E-Waste

Navigating the landscape of electronics recycling in Madison, WI, can seem complex, but this guide has armed you with a comprehensive toolkit. From city-run drop-off sites to convenient retail programs and specialized business solutions, Madison offers a robust framework for responsibly managing your end-of-life devices. The key is to align your specific needs with the right service provider.

Key Takeaways for Madison Residents and Businesses

Your decision-making process should be guided by a few core factors: convenience, cost, data security, and the types of items you need to recycle.

• For Ultimate Convenience: Retailers like Best Buy and Staples offer easily accessible, no-appointment-needed drop-off points for common household electronics. They are perfect for quickly offloading old laptops, phones, and peripherals during a regular shopping trip.
• For Cost-Effective Residential Recycling: The City of Madison Streets Division provides an invaluable, free service for its residents, making it the go-to choice for televisions, computers, and other covered electronics without any out-of-pocket expense.
• For Broader Waste Needs: If you're dealing with a mix of e-waste and other household hazardous materials, Dane County Clean Sweep is your one-stop solution. It's the ideal choice for residents and businesses looking to safely dispose of items that can't go into regular trash or recycling.
• For Business and Bulk Recycling: Resource Solutions Corp. stands out as the premier partner for businesses, schools, and organizations. Their services, including certified data destruction and CSR documentation, are tailored to meet corporate and institutional requirements, turning recycling into an ESG win.
• For Charitable Impact: Donating through Goodwill's Dell Reconnect program not only keeps electronics out of landfills but also supports local community programs, turning your old tech into a force for good.

Actionable Next Steps: A Quick Checklist

Before you head out, run through these final steps to ensure a smooth and secure recycling experience:

1. Prioritize Data Security: Always perform a factory reset or use data-wiping software to erase personal information from your devices. For sensitive corporate data, use a certified service like Resource Solutions Corp.
2. Check for Fees and Accepted Items: Visit the recycler’s website or call ahead. Policies on fees, accepted electronics, and operating hours can change.
3. Handle Batteries with Care: Remove batteries from devices whenever possible. Damaged or mishandled batteries pose a significant fire risk. When making decisions about e-waste, it's critical to be aware of the inherent dangers; for example, gaining insights into understanding why lithium-ion batteries explode and how to be safe is crucial for preventing accidents at home and at recycling facilities.

By choosing one of the trusted options detailed in this guide for electronics recycling in Madison, WI, you are making a powerful commitment. You are protecting our local environment from hazardous materials, conserving valuable resources, and ensuring your personal data remains secure. Your small act contributes to a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable Dane County for everyone.