Selling scrap metal is a smart way to make a little extra money while also keeping useful materials out of the landfill. You might not realize that you're surrounded by valuable metals such as copper, steel, brass, and iron in your everyday life. With a bit of consideration and planning, you can turn the following unwanted recyclables into cash.

What Are Some Common Scrap Metal Items Around Your Home?

1. Stainless Steel Sinks

Stainless steel sinks were staples in homes built in the 1980s and 90s. These days, they're often discarded in favor of more modern design choices.

If you're renovating your kitchen or bathroom, consider selling your old sink to the scrapyard to offset costs. When selling scrap metal sinks, remove the steel ring on the outside and the drain from the bottom to make a bit more money.

2. Pots & Pans

Scratched, rusted, and worn out cookware might not hold much value in the kitchen, but it can easily be recycled as scrap metal, earning you a little money for a new set. Most cookware made from aluminum, copper, stainless steel, or cast iron can be recycled.

Ensure that it's pure metal by holding a magnet to its surface to see if it attracts. If it does, you can likely sell it for scrap. You'll also want to ensure that it's free of any non-stick coating, such as Teflon®, as many scrap yards won't take cookware with this protective layer. 

3. Appliances

It can be frustrating when your appliances break down. Not only are you left holding the bill for a replacement, but you also have to figure out how to dispose of them.

Fortunately, appliances such as washers and dryers, refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers can all be recycled as scrap metal. In fact, when big box home improvement stores offer to haul away your old appliances for free, they typically send them to the recycling center. When doing it yourself, you earn a little return on your investment. 

Whether you're selling scrap metal for environmental reasons or for a little extra pocket money, Roadrunner Recycling in the San Marcos, Seguin, and New Braunfels, TX, area, can help. Their well-maintained recycling center pays cash for scrap metal materials, including aluminum, brass, copper, iron, and stainless steel. Call (512) 353-4511 for a free estimate, or visit their website to learn more about their recycling programs.