Recycling your old Apple device isn’t just good for the planet—it can give your iPhone, iPad, or Mac a whole new life. But there’s one essential rule: your device must be unlocked and erased. A locked Apple device can’t be fully reused or recycled—it’s little more than an expensive paperweight.
When you properly reset your device, it can be refurbished, given a new battery, and enjoyed for years by someone else. Everyone wins: you get peace of mind, another user gets a great device, and we keep valuable materials in use and out of the landfill.
Follow these simple steps to get your Apple device ready for free, responsible recycling.
Step 1: Back Up Your Data
Don’t risk losing your photos, contacts, or files.
-iPhone/iPad/iPod touch: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Turn it on and tap “Back Up Now.”
Or connect to a computer and back up via iTunes/Finder.
-Mac:
Use Time Machine or your preferred cloud service to save all files and settings.
Step 2: Sign Out of iCloud & All Services
This is critical to disabling Activation Lock.
-On iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > [Your Name]. Scroll down and tap “Sign Out.” Enter your password and choose to keep a copy of data on your device if desired. Confirm sign-out.
-On Mac:
Click the Apple menu > System Preferences > Apple ID. Select “Overview” and click “Sign Out.”
Step 3: Erase All Content & Settings
This wipes your data and preps the device for its next user.
-On iPhone/iPad:
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset [Device].
Tap “Erase All Content and Settings.” Enter your passcode and Apple ID password if prompted. Confirm.
- On Mac:
Go to Apple Menu > System Preferences > Erase All Content and Settings.
Follow the prompts to completely wipe the system.
Step 4: Remove Device from Your Account (Final Check)
For absolute certainty, unlink the device from your Apple ID online.
- Visit appleid.apple.com and sign in.
- Go to the “Devices” section.
- Select the device you’re recycling and click “Remove from Account.”
You’re All Set!
Thank you for taking these steps. You’ve just ensured your Apple device can be safely reused or responsibly recycled—keeping precious metals, rare earth elements, and functional components in circulation.
Ready to recycle?
Bring your prepared Apple devices to us—free of charge—and rest easy knowing you’ve made a secure and sustainable choice.
