Information current as of 09/09/2026.
Before recycling an old laptop, back up important files and verify that the backup works. Sign out of cloud, software, and device-tracking services, remove removable media, securely erase the internal storage using the appropriate Windows or Mac workflow, and use an electronics recycler, manufacturer take-back program, or other authorized route instead of ordinary household waste.
1. Back up and verify your important files
Copy documents, photos, videos, financial information, tax records, email data, and anything else you need to a secure backup location. Do not erase the laptop until you have checked that the backup is usable and contains the files you expect.
2. Sign out and remove items that stay with you
Sign out of cloud accounts, software services, and device-tracking features before handing over the laptop. On a supported Mac, Erase Assistant can sign you out of Apple services, turn off Find My and Activation Lock, and erase content and settings. Remove USB drives, memory cards, discs, and accessories that you want to keep.
3. Erase the laptop using the right workflow
For a Windows PC being recycled, open Reset this PC, choose Remove everything, and enable Clean data when appropriate. Microsoft says this makes removed files harder to recover, but its consumer erasure feature is not intended to meet government or industry data-erasure standards. On a supported Mac, use Erase All Content and Settings; otherwise, erase the disk and reinstall macOS by following Apple’s instructions.
4. Match the sanitization method to the data
For ordinary personal use, the operating system’s supported erase workflow may be an appropriate consumer step. If the laptop contains highly sensitive information or is subject to organizational requirements, use a stronger sanitization or destruction process instead. The appropriate approach depends on the information’s sensitivity, the storage technology, and the effort an attacker might apply to recover it; NIST distinguishes clear, purge, and destroy methods and recommends considering purge instead of clear when possible.
5. Choose an authorized recycling route
After the data has been erased, use an electronics recycler, manufacturer take-back program, donation channel, or another authorized route that accepts laptops. Do not put the computer in ordinary household waste or send it to a landfill; computers may contain hazardous materials, and accepted devices and collection options vary by locality.
Sources
- How To Remove Your Personal Information Before You Get Rid of Your Computer
- Reset your PC
- What to do before you sell, give away, trade in, or recycle your Mac
- Erase your Mac
- SP 800-88 Rev. 2, Guidelines for Media Sanitization
- Guidelines for Media Sanitization
Frequently asked questions
How do I securely wipe a laptop before recycling?
Back up and verify your files first. On Windows, use Reset this PC > Remove everything and enable Clean data when appropriate; on a supported Mac, use Erase All Content and Settings, or erase the disk and reinstall macOS using Apple’s instructions. For highly sensitive data or organizational requirements, seek a stronger sanitization or destruction method because consumer erasure may not meet government or industry standards.
What should I do before selling or recycling your old laptop?
Back up and verify important files, sign out of accounts and tracking services, remove removable media, erase the internal storage, and use an authorized electronics recycling or take-back route. Choose a stronger sanitization or destruction method if the laptop contains highly sensitive information.