Can you throw away speakers in the trash?

For a wired passive speaker, check whether your city or waste provider directs it to metal recycling, electronics recycling or another route. NYC, for example, lists speakers under metal recycling, but that rule applies to NYC and does not settle the rule elsewhere.

For a wireless or battery-powered speaker containing a lithium battery, use a qualified battery or electronics collection route. Do not put it in the trash or municipal recycling, pry open the device or attempt to remove a battery that is not user-serviceable. If the speaker is damaged, follow the battery manufacturer’s handling instructions.

Treat a separate amplifier or receiver as its own item when checking local instructions. If a receiver and speakers are being handled together, confirm whether your local program accepts the complete setup.

Sources: NYC311 recycling rules and cardboard; NYC DSNY electronics and e-waste; EPA lithium-ion battery disposal.

If you can move the speaker outside yourself and your local rule allows a pickup route, place it in an accessible outdoor location before collection. You can arrange the pickup before moving it outside, but it must be outside and accessible when the pickup occurs.

Sources: Dropcurb current pricing and standard pickup scope.

Dropcurb can handle accepted speakers and a home stereo setup when the items are already outside and accessible. For a receiver and speakers together, choose Stereo system; count separate speakers individually. Dropcurb handles loading, transport and disposal after pickup. Indoor carry-out is not available, so if you cannot move the speaker outside, use a service that includes indoor carrying.

Sources: Dropcurb current pricing and standard pickup scope.