Getting rid of it in the GTA: recycle, donate or drop off

Where paint, electronics, batteries, furniture and hazardous stuff should go.

Nana Pearl keeps everything, so Tod learned where every last thing can go.

Still works? Donate or sell it

Thrift and charity stores take clean, working items. Call ahead for furniture and electronics. Consignment shops sell good clothing for a share of the price.

Paint

Ontario has a paint recycling program: many paint retailers and municipal depots take leftover paint back. Keep it in the original can with the lid on.

Electronics

Ontario has free drop-off points for old electronics. Factory-reset phones and computers and remove SIM and memory cards first.

Batteries

Many hardware and electronics stores have battery drop-off bins. Tape the ends of lithium batteries.

Hazardous waste

Propane tanks, solvents, pesticides and fluorescent bulbs go to a municipal household hazardous waste depot or a community drop-off event. Check your city’s website for what they accept.

Big stuff

Many GTA cities collect large items like mattresses and furniture on garbage day or by appointment. Check your city’s bulky-item rules.