Recycle or reuse whenever possible, and dispose of properly as a last resort. While lawful disposal varies by jurisdiction, it’s important to understand and follow some universal guidelines. Here’s how to deal with (or find the right place in your area) ten unwanted items:

1. MEDICATIONS
   Do not flush unless packaging says to. Mix with an unpalatable substance such as used coffee grounds or cat litter in a plastic bag, seal, and put in trash.
2. CELL PHONES
   Major carriers like AT&T and electronics retailers like Best Buy accept phones for trade-in or take-back. Remove personal data including SIM card, address book, photos and messages.
3. BATTERIES
   Find local drop-off station at www.call2recycle.com.
4. APPLIANCES
   with refrigerants (freezers, fridges, AC units). Call your municipal public works department for collection and disposal procedures.
5. PAINT
   Call your local household hazardous waste collection facility for instructions on handling and safely disposing of leftover paint including aerosol paint cans.
6. INK AND TONER CARTRIDGES
   Major business supply stores like Best Buy and Staples accept cartridges for recycling.
7. COMPUTER COMPONENTS
   Most Best Buy stores accept them for recycling.
8. MATTRESSES
   Schedule a pickup at 1-800-GOT-JUNK for charitable donation or proper disposal.
9. PACKING PEANUTS
   The ones made of vegetable starch are nontoxic, biodegradable and disintegrate in water. Call the Peanut Hotline at 1-800-828-2214 for businesses that accept the plastic nonrecyclable kind.
10. EYEGLASSES
    Find a local drop-off center at www.onesight.org.
    

For more information or to find local recycling centers, visit www.earth911.com.