AUG 22, 2025
Most people know that scrap metal recycling is good for the environment, which is why the recycling rates of different types of metals have increased greatly. If you ask random people about recyclable metal items, most will mention things like soda cans, car parts, and old appliances. However, you might be surprised to learn that there are many hidden items in your home that can also be recycled for cash.
Here at RCM Recycling, we know firsthand the benefits of scrap metal recycling. In this article, we’ll highlight some surprising household items you probably didn’t know could be recycled.
Many small kitchen appliances contain valuable scrap metal, even if they look like simple plastic gadgets. Items like blenders, coffee makers, toasters, air fryers, and microwaves contain aluminum, stainless steel, and copper components inside. Even if the outer shell is plastic, the internal wiring, motors, and heating elements usually have metals that can be removed and recycled.
Most people throw away old pots, pans, baking trays, and cutlery without realizing they contain stainless steel, aluminum, and sometimes copper. Even nonstick pans and cookware with broken handles are recyclable. Recycling facilities can separate these metals from coatings, giving them a second life in new products instead of letting them end up in landfills.
Bathrooms are full of surprising sources of scrap metal. Old showerheads, faucets, towel racks, cabinet handles, and sink drains are often made from brass, stainless steel, or aluminum. Even damaged or rusted fixtures can be recycled. Many older homes have bathroom accessories with high-quality metals that hold good scrap value.
Your home electronics are a goldmine for recyclable materials. Devices like old smartphones, tablets, remote controls, DVD players, laptops, and chargers contain tiny amounts of valuable metals, including copper, aluminum, silver, and even gold in some circuit boards. Rather than tossing broken gadgets into the trash, recycling them ensures these metals are recovered and reused.
Old light fixtures and ceiling fans are often overlooked when decluttering, but they contain decent amounts of aluminum, brass, and copper wiring. Chandeliers, pendant lights, and wall sconces usually have a mix of metals inside their frames and electrical components.
If you’re replacing old furniture, check whether it contains hidden scrap metal. Office chairs, recliners, tables, and bed frames may have steel or aluminum supports inside. Outdoor patio furniture tends to have recyclable aluminum frames, which are lightweight but valuable at scrap yards.
Old air conditioners, heaters, and water heaters contain copper coils, aluminum fins, and other high-value metals. Even refrigerators and freezers that no longer work can be stripped for recyclable parts. These items are heavier and may require professional pickup, but they can provide a good return if properly recycled.
Broken power drills, lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, and leaf blowers may seem like junk, but most contain steel casings, copper wiring, and aluminum housings. Gas-powered lawn equipment can yield a huge amount of recyclable metal. Before tossing them out, check if your local scrap metal recycling center accepts them as scrap.
At RCM Recycling, we encourage you to take a look around your home and identify unwanted items that can be recycled. This will not only help you declutter your home, but you’ll also earn extra cash while contributing to environmental sustainability. Every item you send to scrap metal recyclers reduces landfill waste, conserves natural resources, and helps create a more sustainable planet.
RCM Recycling is a locally owned and operated scrap metal company that offers competitive prices for a wide range of ferrous and nonferrous metals. Contact us when you’re looking for trusted scrap metal buyers.
