10 Things You Didn’t Know You Could (and Should) Recycle from the Office
When most people think of recycling at work, they picture stacks of old paperwork or empty water bottles. But your office may be hiding a surprising list of items that should be recycled—not just for the environment, but for your security.
Here are 10 common office items you didn’t realize you should be recycling—especially with help from your friends at SecurShred.
1. Broken or Obsolete Keyboards and Mice
Yes, even that sticky old mouse can be recycled responsibly. Many contain plastic, wires, and small circuit boards that shouldn’t go in the trash.
2. Backup Tapes & Cassettes
That drawer full of backup tapes? They’re easy to forget—but they hold sensitive data and need secure destruction. We handle these too.
3. Fax Machines & Landline Phones
Still hanging on to these relics of office past? They contain both plastic and data-storing components. Let us take care of them properly.
4. Surge Protectors and Extension Cords
These wear down over time and pose a fire hazard. Rather than throwing them away, recycle them through a certified e-waste program.
5. Printer Toner and Ink Cartridges
Toner dust can be harmful if not handled properly. SecurShred accepts these as part of responsible electronics recycling programs.
6. Shredded Paper (Yes, Even That!)
Don’t dump your shredded paper into the trash. Our facility handles secure recycling, ensuring your sensitive info never ends up in the wrong hands.
7. Batteries—But Not in the Shred Bin!
Lithium-ion batteries are a big hazard. Never put them in locking shred containers. Instead, bring them to us for safe recycling.
8. Outdated ID Badges and Access Cards
These often contain embedded chips or magnetic strips. Destroying them prevents unauthorized access to your building or systems.
9. Old Hard Drives and Flash Drives
Even if you “deleted” the files, the data is still there. These must be physically destroyed to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
10. Your Questions
Unsure what’s safe to recycle or how to dispose of something securely? Ask us! We’re happy to help your team get it right.
Ready to Clean Up the Clutter?
SecurShred partners with medium to large businesses across Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts to keep sensitive materials secure and office recycling responsible.
If it plugs in, powers up, or stores data, don’t toss it—ask us first.
Visit www.securshred.com or call today to schedule a secure pickup.