DVDs are no longer part of our daily routines, but many of us still have stacks tucked away in drawers, shelves, or storage bins. They are rarely watched and not easy to dispose of in a responsible way. Throwing them out may seem convenient, but it contributes to long-term environmental waste. Learning how to recycle old DVDs properly is a small but meaningful way to reduce that impact. Whether you are dealing with commercial discs or personal recordings, choosing the right recycling method helps ensure they are handled with care and kept out of landfills.
Why You Shouldn’t Throw DVDs in the Trash
DVDs are made of polycarbonate plastic and a thin layer of aluminum. When thrown out, they don’t decompose easily. Over time, they add to the growing problem of plastic waste and environmental damage. If burned, they can release chemicals like BPA that are dangerous to both people and the planet.
DVD cases add to the problem. Often made from polystyrene (also known as #6 plastic), they’re not accepted by many curbside recycling programs due to how difficult they are to process.
And while it might seem like the right move, placing DVDs in your home recycling bin rarely works. Most programs can’t process them. Discs can crack during sorting, damage equipment, and end up in the landfill anyway.
Recycling DVDs through a service that knows how to handle them keeps waste out of landfills and gives your memories a chance to be enjoyed again.
Recycling DVDs is a simple step that makes a real difference.
What Are Your Options for Recycling DVDs?
Here are a few responsible paths forward:
- Specialty recycling programs: Services like GreenDisk or local e-waste collection: events often accept DVDs, CDs, and cases. These programs are designed for materials that traditional curbside recycling cannot process.
- Certified recycling drop-offs: Some electronics stores and community recycling centers offer collection points for disc recycling. These locations ensure that DVDs are properly handled and diverted from landfills.
- Mail-in recycling services: Several eco-conscious companies allow you to send in DVDs for safe and responsible processing, no matter where you live.
But if you’re wondering what to do with your old DVDs that contain family movies, birthdays, or weddings, the answer is simple - recycle old DVDs with Capture and preserve the memories inside them.
When Recycling Is Also Rediscovery
At Capture, we spent the past 25+ years helping families digitize their home movies. For a long time, DVDs were the gold standard. But times changed. Computers stopped shipping with disc drives. Streaming replaced physical media.
We know many people are now left with memories they can’t easily watch. So, we’re offering a new option: one that doesn’t just keep your DVDs out of landfills but brings your memories back to life.
We created the DVD Transfer & Recycling Program to solve this. Here’s how it works:
- You send us your DVDs
- We convert your DVDs to digital files you can download and enjoy on any device.
- Then, we recycle the physical DVDs responsibly, so they don’t end up in landfills.
Which DVD Recycling Option Is Right for You?
The right recycling solution depends on what your DVDs contain and what matters most to you.
- If you have commercial DVDs: Store-bought movies, TV series, and promotional discs such as Disney films or fitness videos can often be recycled through local drop-off centers, mail-in programs, or donation sites. These discs usually do not require any form of preservation and are suitable for standard recycling options.
- If you have personal DVDs: Home recordings like family vacations, birthdays, or weddings often exist only on disc. If they were never saved digitally, Capture’s DVD Recycling Digital Transfer Program is the best option. You can preserve the content by converting it into digital files before the disc is responsibly recycled.
We believe every memory deserves a second life. And every disc deserves to be handled with care, not left to sit in storage or end up in a landfill.
Recycle old DVDs with Capture and give your memories a second life.
FAQ
Should I throw away all my DVDs?
Not if you can avoid it. Many DVDs can be recycled or donated. If they contain personal memories, consider digitizing them first before recycling.
Is it worth recycling DVDs?
Yes. It keeps plastic waste out of landfills and supports responsible reuse.
Can you put DVDs in your recycle bin?
No. Most curbside programs do not accept DVDs or cases.
Where can I recycle DVDs near me?
Search local e-waste centers or use directories like Earth911. If your DVDs contain personal videos, you can send them to Capture from anywhere for digitizing and recycling.
A Simple Step That Makes a Real Difference
Old DVDs often hold more than just video clips. They hold voices, faces, and moments that shaped us. Choosing to recycle old DVDs thoughtfully is a small but meaningful way to care for the environment and the memories you’ve collected over time.
Whether you are cleaning out storage or hoping to preserve personal footage, there is a responsible way to move forward. At Capture, we make it easy to recycle old DVDs while giving you the chance to save what matters most.
Because taking care of your past should never come at the expense of your future.
