How to Properly Dispose and Recycle an iPad: Easy Tips

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Easiest ways to dispose of an old iPad
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Recycling your old iPad is a great alternative to throwing it away or letting it collect dust in a closet. You can trade your device back to Apple in exchange for a gift card or take a chance at selling it online. You could even donate your old device to a school or program—just be sure to back up your files and reset your iPad first. Here's how to properly recycle an iPad.

Safely Disposing Old iPads

To get rid of an old iPad, visit Apple's Trade In website to earn credits you can apply towards new purchases. If your device isn't eligible for credits, Apple will still recycle your iPad for free. You can also check for e-waste facilities, sell, or donate your device. Just be sure to backup your files first.

Section 1 of 3:

Recycling with Apple

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  1. Visit Apple's Trade In website. If you want to get rid of your iPad, you may be able to get trade-in credit in return. If your device isn't eligible for credits, Apple will still recycle it for free.
  2. This is the blue button in the top-right corner.
    • Before beginning any trade-in process, make sure your iPad is completely backed up and wiped clean .
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  3. Use the prompts on the pop-up window to select Tablet , then select Apple .
  4. This can be found engraved on the back of your device. Apple requests your serial number to prevent fraud.
    • If your device still has power, you can go to Settings > General > About to find your serial number.
  5. Once you identify your device, you will be asked to provide information about what state it is in.
    • Note that it is unlikely that you will receive an Apple gift card if your iPad is damaged.
    • You should see an estimated trade-in value.
  6. You can apply your credits instantly towards a new purchase, or you can apply the credits on an Apple Gift Card .
  7. Once you have completed the registration process, you will be prompted to write your personal information. Apple will then mail you a box and prepaid shipping label for your iPad.
  8. Place your iPad in the box provided and seal the box securely. Attach the prepaid mailing label to the box as indicated. Bring the box to your local post office for delivery.
    • Be sure to get a receipt for the package, including a tracking number for reference.
  9. It will take at least a few weeks for Apple to receive your iPad, process it, and send out your trade-in credits. Expect to receive it in the mail at least 2-3 weeks after you ship your iPad. You can use the gift card at any Apple retail store or their online store.
    • You'll receive a confirmation email that your gift card is on the way once your iPad has been inspected and approved for the trade.
  10. An Apple employee will inspect the device and calculate its value based on the model and condition. To avoid long wait times, make an appointment at an Apple store ahead of time. [1]
    EXPERT TIP

    Kathryn Kellogg

    Sustainability Specialist
    Kathryn Kellogg is the founder of goingzerowaste.com, a lifestyle website dedicated to breaking eco-friendly living down into a simple step-by-step process with lots of positivity and love. Kathryn is the author of two books focusing on sustainability, 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste and 101 Tips for a Zero Waste Kitchen. She is the spokesperson for plastic-free living for National Geographic, has been featured by the Guardian, CNN, Refinery29, and Bustle, and has a following on instagram of over 700k.
    Kathryn Kellogg
    Sustainability Specialist

    If your iPad is destroyed, look for an e-waste recycling facility. Kathryn Kellogg, author of 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste , says: "Go to the E-Steward website and look at their list of e-waste recyclers to find the facility that's nearest you. They can handle disposing of the hazardous materials found in tablets and other devices."

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Section 2 of 3:

Selling or Donating Your iPad

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  1. Many websites buy used electronics and resell them for a profit. Compare different sites by filling out details about your iPad on each site and generating offers. Once you accept an offer, pack and ship your device as directed to receive your payment.
    • Note that your offers will be higher if your device is in good condition and if you have the original box and charger.
    • Read online reviews of these sites to ensure that they are reliable.
    • For instance, you can buy and sell pre-owned electronic devices at popular sites like https://www.gazelle.com/ .
  2. Sites like Craigslist allow you to sell items directly and locally. Create an ad on one of these sites that includes a description of your iPad, a photo, and your asking price. Specify your area and add a contact phone number, if desired.
    • Look up asking prices for other used iPads to gauge how much you should sell your device for.
    • Avoid listing personal information, such as your phone number or address, when posting publicly on a site like Craigslist.
    • You can also list your iPad on an online auction site like eBay or on Facebook Marketplace .
  3. Call charities in your area to see if they would accept your iPad as a donation. Certain charities collect technology donations to give to individuals or families in need. A local school or after-school program may also benefit from an iPad.
    • Some state-based non-profit organizations will accept iPad donations for schools.
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Section 3 of 3:

Clearing Your iPad

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  1. To check if your iPad is connected to Wi-Fi, open the Settings and tap Wi-Fi . If your iPad is connected to a network, you will see a blue checkmark next to the name. [2]
    • If you are not connected to your preferred network, re-enter the password and try to connect again.
    • If you have difficulty connecting to a viable Wi-Fi network, try restarting your iPad and try again.
  2. Once you have Wi-Fi access, you can easily back up your iPad to iCloud. [3]
    • Go Settings .
    • Tap your Apple ID.
    • Tap iCloud .
    • Tap iCloud Backup .
    • Tap Back Up Now .
    • Alternatively, you can backup your iPad using iTunes on a computer.
  3. This will erase all the content and settings. Be sure you've completely backed up your iPad first. Then, do the following:
    • Go to Settings .
    • Tap General .
    • Tap Transfer or Reset iPad .
    • Tap Reset .
    • Tap Erase All Content and Settings .
    • Your iPad should return to its original factory settings once the process is complete.
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.apple.com/ca/trade-in/
  2. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-ca/HT204051
  3. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/108366

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      Tips

      • Wipe down your iPad with a clean microfiber cloth to remove oil, dirt, and fingerprints.
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      • The best time to sell an iPad is just before Apple releases a new version of the device.
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      • If you sell your iPad locally, arrange to meet the buyer in a safe, public place to make the exchange.
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