Electronics recycling is more complex than many people realize. Devices like computers, televisions, and phones contain valuable materials such as aluminum, copper, and rare metals, but they can also contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and lithium batteries.

Responsible electronics recycling requires specialized equipment and environmentally compliant processing to safely handle these materials.

Community recycling events help make it easier for residents to properly dispose of unwanted electronics. In some cases, municipalities may help offset electronics recycling costs so residents can recycle certain items at reduced cost or for free during the event.

Electronic Asset Security manages the electronics recycling process at these events, ensuring devices are handled responsibly and that data-containing devices are properly processed.

If you cannot attend one of the scheduled events, Electronic Asset Security also offers year-round electronics recycling services at their Urbandale facility:
https://electronicassetsecurity.com/electronics-recycling/ 

Free Electronics Recycling in Des Moines

Residents looking for free electronics recycling in Des Moines can take advantage of the city’s MEGA SCRUB events listed above. These community cleanup events are organized by the City of Des Moines and are intended for residents of Des Moines.

Depending on the event and available municipal support, some electronics may be accepted at no cost while others may still require standard electronics recycling fees.

Free Electronics Recycling in Waukee

If you’re searching for free electronics recycling in Waukee, the Spring 2026 Waukee Electronics Recycling Event offers an opportunity for Waukee residents to recycle electronics responsibly. With support from the City of Waukee, electronics recycling will be available free of charge during this event.

Why Some Electronics Normally Have Recycling Fees

Outside of city-sponsored events, certain electronics require electronics recycling fees because of the cost involved in safely processing them.

Examples include:

• CRT televisions and monitors

• Large flat screen TVs

• Certain batteries

• Printers and cartridges

These devices often contain materials that require specialized dismantling and environmental handling. Unlike metals and circuit boards that can be recovered and reused, some components have little or negative recycling value.

Municipal support during certain events may help offset these costs, which is why some events can offer free electronics recycling for items that normally require a fee.

Responsible Electronics Recycling Matters

Proper electronics recycling helps protect both the environment and your personal data.

Responsible electronics recycling helps:

• Keep hazardous materials out of landfills

• Recover valuable materials for reuse

• Prevent illegal dumping or improper export of electronics

• Protect sensitive information stored on devices

Electronic Asset Security specializes in secure electronics recycling and IT asset disposition (ITAD), ensuring electronics are properly processed and data-containing media is securely wiped or destroyed.

Electronic Asset Security serves residents throughout Central Iowa including Des Moines, West Des Moines, Waukee, Urbandale, Ankeny, Johnston, Clive, and surrounding communities.