We’ve all been there—holding a bag of used batteries, light bulbs, or plastic bags, wondering where to take them. While curbside recycling handles many household items, more specialized materials require different solutions. Enter retail stores with in-store recycling programs. But which ones actually recycle? And what happens to those items after you drop them off?
In this guide, we’ll explore which stores really accept recycling, what items they take, what to watch out for, and how to recycle more effectively—without contributing to “wishcycling” or greenwashing.
Why In-Store Recycling Exists
Some items—like electronics, plastic film, cosmetics containers, or batteries—can’t be processed through regular municipal recycling. To fill the gap, many brands and retailers have launched take-back programs to recover materials and offer customers a more responsible disposal option.
In-store recycling makes it more convenient to responsibly discard hard-to-recycle items, support closed-loop systems, and reduce landfill waste.
Which Stores Actually Accept Recycling?
Here are some of the most reputable and widely available retail recycling programs in the U.S. and what they typically accept:
1. Target
Target offers in-store recycling bins (usually near the entrance) for:
- Plastic bags and bubble wrap
- Aluminum cans and glass bottles
- Ink cartridges
- Cell phones and MP3 players (some locations)
Check your local store, as services can vary.
2. Best Buy
One of the most comprehensive electronics recycling programs:
- TVs, computers, tablets, phones
- Small appliances
- Cables and cords
- Ink and toner cartridges
- Rechargeable batteries
Tip: There may be a small fee for larger items (e.g., CRT TVs) and some restrictions per day.
3. Staples
Primarily focused on office and tech recycling:
- Ink and toner cartridges
- Shredded documents
- Computers, printers, keyboards
- Rechargeable batteries
They offer rewards points for recycling ink/toner if you’re a Staples Rewards member.
4. Home Depot & Lowe’s
These home improvement giants offer drop-off bins for:
- CFL and fluorescent light bulbs
- Rechargeable batteries
- Plastic plant pots and trays
- Used tools (varies by location)
Note: Neither store accepts alkaline batteries or paint through standard drop-off.
5. Apple
Apple’s Trade In and recycling program accepts:
- iPhones, iPads, Macs, and accessories
- You can receive credit toward a new device or have old products responsibly recycled.
Mail-in options are also available.
6. Sephora & Nordstrom
Select locations partner with TerraCycle or similar programs to recycle hard-to-recycle beauty product packaging.
- Mascara tubes, compacts, pump bottles
- Empty shampoo and conditioner bottles
- Lipstick containers
7. Whole Foods
Some stores accept:
- Plastic grocery bags and film packaging
- Wine corks (partnered with Cork ReHarvest)
- Batteries (occasionally)
Always call ahead, as participation can vary by location or change over time.
What to Watch Out For: Greenwashing & Limitations
1. Not All “Recyclables” Get Recycled
Just because a store collects an item doesn’t mean it’s guaranteed to be recycled. Some materials are difficult or unprofitable to process and may end up incinerated or landfilled.
2. Contamination Can Disqualify Items
Dirty or mixed materials (e.g., lotion still inside a plastic bottle) can contaminate batches and make recycling more difficult.
3. Some Programs Are Discontinued
Brands sometimes start take-back programs for publicity, only to quietly end them later. Always check the company website or call ahead.
Best Practices for Store Drop-Off Recycling
1. Clean and Dry All Items
Remove any food, makeup, or liquids before recycling. Rinse bottles, wipe down packaging, and let them dry.
2. Sort by Material
Keep items separated (plastics with plastics, electronics together, etc.) to make processing easier for the facility.
3. Check Local Restrictions
Some states have unique recycling regulations or bans (e.g., no electronic waste in landfills in California), which may influence store participation.
4. Don’t “Wishcycle”
If you’re unsure an item is recyclable, don’t assume it is. Only drop off what’s explicitly listed—misplaced items often derail recycling efforts.
5. Ask for Transparency
Look for programs that explain what happens to your recycled items—and who processes them. Brands that disclose these details are more likely to follow through responsibly.
FAQs About In-Store Recycling
Are these programs free to use?
Yes, most drop-off recycling programs are free. However, some electronics or large appliances may incur a small fee at Best Buy.
Can I recycle old batteries anywhere?
Rechargeable batteries can be recycled at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Staples. Alkaline battery recycling is less common—check Earth911.com for local options.
Can I recycle used plastic grocery bags at the store?
Yes—Target, Whole Foods, and some grocery stores have bins specifically for soft plastic bags and packaging film.
Do cosmetic stores really recycle my empties?
If they partner with TerraCycle or a closed-loop system, yes. But success depends on you cleaning and preparing items properly.
Is it better to use mail-in recycling?
Mail-in programs like TerraCycle or Ridwell offer broader options but may charge a fee. They’re great for items that can’t be recycled locally.
Final Thoughts: Real Recycling Starts With Informed Action
In-store recycling can be an important part of reducing household waste—but it’s not foolproof. The best way to make it count is by knowing what’s accepted, preparing items properly, and choosing stores with transparent, verifiable programs.
Ultimately, reducing waste is even better than recycling. But when you do need to dispose of something tricky, these drop-off programs give you a fighting chance to keep it out of the landfill—and out of the environment.
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