How to Safely Dispose of an Old Phone

Before recycling

1. Back up anything worth keeping.
2. Move SIM/eSIM, 2FA and banking access.
3. Remove accounts and factory-reset if the device can operate.
4. Remove SIM and memory card.
5. Record the IMEI and the recycler’s receipt if relevant.

If the battery is damaged

Do not charge, puncture or post a swollen or damaged lithium battery. Keep it away from heat and flammable material, and ask the manufacturer, retailer or local recycling service for safe handling instructions.

Choose a route

• Retailer take-back.
• Manufacturer recycling.
• Local authority electrical recycling.
• A reputable charity or refurbishment scheme with a clear data policy.

Do not dismantle for data destruction

Drilling, crushing or burning a phone creates fire and toxic-material risks. If the phone cannot be wiped, use a professional service that can document secure treatment of storage and battery.

Choose a recycler that can document the data route

A damaged phone may still contain recoverable data. Disposal should address both the battery and the storage.

• Back up and erase through official settings where possible.
• Remove SIM and memory cards and record the serial or IMEI.
• Use a reputable electrical recycler or trade-in service and ask how non-functional devices and lithium batteries are handled.