How to wipe a computer before donating or recycling it

Back up important files and retain the BitLocker recovery key. In Windows reset options, choose Remove everything, enable Clean data, and let the reset finish without interrupting it. Do not use Keep my files when preparing the computer for donation or recycling.

Sources: Microsoft reset instructions before donation.

Back up your files first. On Apple silicon or T2 Macs running macOS Monterey 12 or later, use Erase All Content and Settings. Other Macs follow Apple’s sign-out, Recovery Disk Utility erase, and reinstall steps, then remain at the setup assistant rather than signed in to your account. If the Mac will not start, arrange a separate professional data-handling plan instead of assuming the data was erased.

Sources: Apple prepare a Mac for a new owner.

Microsoft explicitly says its consumer reset does not meet government or industry data-erasure standards. If your organization requires documented sanitization, use a qualified service that meets its policy. Do not assume a failed or nonstarting computer has been wiped.

Before relying on retailer recycling, check whether Best Buy wipes hard drives.

Sources: Microsoft reset instructions before donation; Apple prepare a Mac for a new owner.

After the computer has been wiped and you have removed anything you are keeping, select the correct item: a laptop is one laptop or notebook computer, while a desktop computer is one desktop tower or all-in-one computer. A separate monitor should be added separately.

Sources: Dropcurb current pricing and standard pickup scope.

After you have handled the data, Dropcurb can collect accepted laptops and desktop computers from an accessible outdoor location. Add a separate monitor separately. Pickup covers loading, transport and disposal; it does not include certified data wiping.

Sources: Dropcurb current pricing and standard pickup scope; Microsoft reset instructions before donation; Apple prepare a Mac for a new owner.