I remember the day I opened my junk drawer and a tangle of black wires stared back at me like some kind of tech Medusa. USB cables from phones I forgot I owned. Chargers for laptops that died in 2019. A mystery cord with a connector I could not even name.
If you are staring at a similar mess and asking what to do with old cables and chargers, you are not alone. I went through this exact process in my own home last spring, and I will walk you through everything I learned about sorting, recycling, donating, and even profiting from that drawer of forgotten wires.
Old cables are not garbage. They are e-waste, packed with valuable copper, and many can be reused, donated, or sold. Let me show you how to turn that drawer chaos into something useful in a single afternoon.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Not Throw Old Cables and Chargers in the Trash?
Throwing old cables in the trash is the worst option for your wallet and the planet. E-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream in the world, and chargers make up a huge slice of it.
According to a recent Vox investigation, only about 22% of global e-waste gets recycled properly. The rest ends up in landfills, where toxic materials like lead, mercury, and flame retardants can leach into soil and groundwater over decades.
Inside every cable sits valuable copper wire. When you toss a charger in the trash, you also toss the copper, gold, and rare earth elements that took enormous energy to mine and refine. Recycling those materials takes a fraction of the energy required to mine new ones.
Cables also contain small amounts of hazardous chemicals. Burning cables in your backyard or tossing them in regular bins releases dioxins into the air. This is why every major guide on electronics disposal emphasizes certified recycling programs over the trash can.
The financial cost is real too. A single copper cable can contain $0.50 to $2.00 worth of recoverable metal. Multiply that across a drawer of 30 cables and you have just thrown away $15 to $60 in raw materials.
How to Organize a Drawer Full of Cables: Step-by-Step Sorting
Organizing a drawer full of cables starts with empty space and a simple plan. I cleared my kitchen table, grabbed three containers, and spent a Saturday morning sorting everything out. Here is the exact process that worked for me.
Step 1: Empty the Drawer Completely
Pull everything out and dump it on a flat surface. You cannot sort cables while they are stacked on top of each other. Spread them out so you can actually see what you own.
Step 2: Group Cables by Type
Sort your pile into rough categories: USB cables, HDMI, power cords, Ethernet, audio cables, and mystery wires. Grouping by type makes the next steps much faster and helps you spot duplicates.
Step 3: Match Cables to Devices You Still Own
Walk through your house with each cable. If it plugs into something you still use, keep it. If the device is gone, the cable goes into the next pile for testing or removal.
Step 4: Test What Still Works
Plug in each remaining cable and confirm it actually charges or transfers data. Cables fail silently over time, especially USB cables. I have found that more than half of mine had intermittent connections that made them useless.
Step 5: Use a Simple Storage System Going Forward
Store working cables in a labeled bin, a shoe organizer, or even toilet paper rolls standing upright in a box. The goal is to never repeat the tangled drawer situation again. I use a 12-compartment organizer and label each slot by device type.
Identify Your Cables: A Quick Reference Guide
Identifying your cables is the key to knowing what to keep, sell, or recycle. Here are the most common cable types you will find in that drawer, and what each one actually does.
USB-A to USB-B
The classic printer and older device cable. One end is flat, the other is square. Most households have at least one or two of these collecting dust from old scanners, printers, or audio gear.
USB-A to Micro-USB
Once the standard for Android phones, e-readers, and small electronics. Most people have several of these, even if they no longer own Micro-USB devices. These are great candidates for donation to schools or makerspaces.
USB-C
The current standard for phones, laptops, tablets, and modern accessories. These are worth keeping and even worth buying extras. USB-C cables support faster charging and data transfer than older standards.
Lightning Cables
Apple proprietary charger for older iPhones and iPads. If you own any current Apple device, you will still need at least one. Otherwise, these are great for donation since many households still rely on them.
HDMI Cables
Used for TVs, monitors, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. Standard HDMI works for most setups. Mini-HDMI and Micro-HDMI are less common but still useful for cameras and tablets.
Ethernet Cables (Cat5, Cat6)
Networking cables for routers, gaming PCs, and smart home hubs. Cat6 cables are still in demand for high-speed internet setups and can support gigabit speeds over reasonable distances.
Power Cords (C13, C7)
Two-prong and three-prong power cables for monitors, TVs, printers, and small appliances. Often called C7 or kettle cords. These hold real recycling value because of the copper gauge inside.
How to Recycle Old Cables and Chargers
Recycling is the easiest and most environmentally responsible option for cables you cannot use or sell. Most people can drop off cables within a 20-minute drive of their home, often for free.
Retail Drop-Off Programs
Several major retailers accept cables for free, no purchase required.
Best Buy accepts cables, chargers, and cords at every U.S. store location. Just bring them to the customer service desk. Staples runs a similar program for office-related electronics and accessories.
Office Depot and Home Depot also take small electronics and cables in many locations. Call ahead to confirm your store participates, since policies vary by region and franchise.
Certified E-Waste Recyclers
For larger quantities or cables mixed with other electronics, certified recyclers are the gold standard. Look for two certifications: R2 (Responsible Recycling) and e-Stewards.
Both certifications require rigorous standards for data destruction, worker safety, and responsible downstream recycling. You can find certified recyclers near you using the Earth911 recycling locator by entering your ZIP code.
Municipal Programs and Call2Recycle
Many cities run curbside or drop-off electronics recycling events twice a year. Call2Recycle also operates a nationwide battery and small electronics recycling network, including cables at participating locations like hardware stores and office supply chains.
Manufacturer Take-Back Programs
Apple, Samsung, and Best Buy Geek Squad offer trade-in or mail-back programs for old accessories. These are great options if you want a hassle-free, postage-paid route. Apple Trade In even handles non-Apple cables through partner recyclers.
Where to Donate Old Cables and Chargers
Donation works for cables that still work but no longer match your devices. I donated six USB-C cables and three HDMI cords to a local maker space last month, and they were thrilled to get them. Working cables you do not need can change someone else life.
Does Goodwill Take Old Cables and Cords?
Yes, Goodwill accepts working cables, chargers, and cords at most locations. They bundle them and resell them in their electronics sections. Call ahead to confirm your local store accepts them, since policies vary.
Schools and STEM Programs
High school robotics clubs, computer repair classes, and STEM nonprofits love donations of working cables. Search for STEM donation program plus your city to find local groups. Many will even pick up donations.
Libraries and Community Centers
Some public libraries run tech lending programs and accept cable donations. Community centers with computer labs also need working peripherals and cables to keep their equipment running for patrons.
Thrift Stores and Repair Cafes
Local thrift stores, Habitat for Humanity ReStores, and Repair Cafes all welcome working electronics. These are excellent options for cables that still have life left and can serve low-income households.
Are Old Charging Cables Worth Anything? Finding Hidden Value
Some old cables are worth real money. The trick is knowing which ones collectors and resellers actually want, and which ones are just common bulk inventory.
Vintage and Specialty Cables
DisplayPort, SCSI, DVI, Apple 30-pin, and original GameCube cables have niche resale markets. Collectors restoring retro computers pay $10 to $40 for hard-to-find cords, especially original packaging versions with manuals.
Common Cables Have Modest Value
Standard USB-A cables sell for a few dollars on eBay, often in bulk lots of 10 to 50 cables. They are not going to make you rich, but they beat landfill and might cover your gas money to the recycling center.
Trade-In Programs
Best Buy, Apple, Amazon, and Gazelle offer trade-in credits for working electronics and accessories. Cable trade-ins are uncommon, but chargers bundled with devices often qualify for higher payouts.
Where to Sell Old Cables
eBay works best for individual valuable cables. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist work for bulk lots. OfferUp and Mercari are good for smaller quantities with shipping included and built-in buyer protection.
List cables honestly, including length, condition, and any test results. Buyers respond well to photos showing both ends and clear measurements. A photo of the cable plugged into a working device builds instant trust.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Cables and Wires
Repurposing old cables keeps them out of the landfill and gives you something useful. Here are the projects I have seen work well over the years.
Use Cables as Plant Ties and Garden Supports
Old cables make excellent soft ties for tomato plants, climbing vines, and tree saplings. They flex without damaging stems and last for years outdoors, even in rain and sun.
Make DIY Cable Labels
Cut a short section of cable, wrap a label around it, and use it as a reusable tie for organizing working cables in your drawer. This is a cheap trick that works as well as any store-bought solution.
Donate to Artists and Makers
Jewelers, sculptors, and crafters buy old cables for material. Copper wire is particularly prized for jewelry making and mixed media art. List your cables on local artist Facebook groups or Craigslist for free pickup.
Use Short Cables as Backup Power Solutions
Keep one short USB cable in your car, one in your travel bag, and one in your desk drawer. They are too short for everyday use but perfect for emergencies and power bank setups.
Turn Old Chargers into Project Power Supplies
Old 5V USB chargers make excellent power supplies for Raspberry Pi projects, Arduino setups, and DIY electronics. Hobbyists snap these up quickly on resale markets, especially clean wall-wart style chargers.
Safe Disposal Tips for Damaged Cables and Chargers
Damaged cables pose real safety risks. I learned this the hard way when a frayed laptop charger sparked in my hand. Here is how to handle dangerous cables safely and avoid the same mistake.
Recognize Warning Signs
Throw away any cable with exposed wiring, melted plastic, burn marks, or strange smells. These cables can short out, spark, or start fires, especially when left plugged in overnight.
Never Throw Chargers with Lithium Batteries in Regular Trash
Some chargers contain small lithium batteries. These can cause fires in garbage trucks and landfills when crushed or punctured. Always recycle lithium-containing electronics through certified e-waste programs.
Cut Damaged Cables Before Recycling
If you cannot get to a recycler immediately, cut damaged cables in half with wire cutters. This prevents anyone from plugging them in and risking a shock or fire in the meantime.
Keep Chargers Away from Heat
Old chargers that still work should never be left plugged in unattended, especially near bedding or furniture. Heat damage can cause fires even in functional chargers that pass basic tests.
Recycle Magnets and Adapters Separately
Some chargers contain small magnets worth recycling. Power adapters with internal transformers should go to certified e-waste programs, not regular recycling bins, since they contain copper windings and small circuit boards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I organize a drawer full of cables?
Empty the drawer completely, group cables by type, match each cable to a device you still own, test what works, then store working cables in labeled bins or upright rolls. A simple system prevents the tangled mess from returning.
Does Goodwill take old cables and cords?
Yes, most Goodwill locations accept working cables, chargers, and cords. They bundle and resell them in their electronics sections. Call your local store to confirm before dropping off a large bag.
Are old charging cables worth anything?
Some are. Specialty cables like DisplayPort, SCSI, DVI, and Apple 30-pin connectors have niche resale markets. Standard USB cables sell for a few dollars in bulk lots on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Mercari.
How do I get rid of old charger cables?
Recycle them through Best Buy, Staples, Office Depot, certified e-waste recyclers, or Call2Recycle drop-off sites. Many cities also run electronics recycling events twice a year.
What is it called when you organize wires?
Wire organization is called cable management. It includes labeling, bundling, routing, and storing cables to prevent tangles, improve airflow, and make equipment easier to maintain.
Can I get money for old cables?
Yes. Specialty and vintage cables sell individually on eBay for $10 to $40. Common cables sell in bulk lots. Trade-in programs from Best Buy and Apple offer credits for bundles that include accessories.
Where can I recycle cables near me?
Use the Earth911 recycling locator to find certified e-waste recyclers in your area. Best Buy, Staples, and Home Depot also accept cables at most store locations. Call2Recycle.org lists battery and cable drop-off sites nationwide.
Final Thoughts on Clearing Out Your Cable Drawer
That drawer full of old cables and chargers is not a problem. It is an opportunity. You have a pile of copper, a chance to help schools, and maybe a few dollars waiting on eBay.
Start by sorting what works, recycle what does not, and donate the rest. Within an afternoon, you will have a clean drawer, a smaller carbon footprint, and a clear conscience. Your junk drawer will thank you.