Downsizing is a great way to declutter your home, making it feel more spacious in the process. However, before tossing items you no longer need or use in the trash, consider their recyclable potential. There are a number of household items that can be considered scrap metal, and taking them to a recycling center could yield a nice payout.

What Household Items Contain Recyclable Scrap Metal?

1. Hardware & Fixtures

If you replace your kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities, save the hardware pieces for the recycling center. These likely contain steel, aluminum, nickel, bronze, copper, and brass.

Faucets, sinks, and light fixtures are often also recyclable due to the metals they contain. If you’re planning to do home renovations that require upgrading these household elements, save the old materials to exchange them for cash at a local recycling facility. 

2. Major Appliances

Virtually all major home appliances include salvageable metals. When it comes time to replace items like your refrigerator or microwave, you can likely recycle the old machines. Washing machines, dryers, and air conditioners typically contain copper, while water heaters and ovens are usually comprised of steel.

3. Auto Parts

Even if you’re not much of a mechanic, it’s possible that you have a number of auto or related parts in your garage or basement. From bolts and rims to axles and batteries, vehicles contain dozens of recyclable pieces.

If you have old spare parts that are broken or unusable because they’re not compatible with your current cars, turn them over to a scrap metal plant. This is an eco-friendly way to dispose of unwanted materials.

Recycle the scrap metal throughout your house at Denver Metal Recycling. This facility is considered Colorado’s one-stop recycling center, and they accept both ferrous and non-ferrous items. With a commitment to providing friendly service, fast turnaround times, and competitive rates, they’re the only recycling center you’ll ever need to visit. To learn more about the different kinds of scrap metal they accept, visit their website or call (303) 316-2880.