PHONES GUIDE
Disposing of mobile phones in the UK: reuse or recycle
An unwanted mobile phone needs a planned next step, whether it is sold, donated, repaired or recycled. Start by checking its condition and the information it holds, then choose a receiving organisation that accepts that device.
Check whether the handset can be used again
A working phone may suit another user, but usefulness depends on its condition and whether it can run the software the next owner needs. Record the full model, storage and known faults. Keep its charger or relevant accessories together and explain any missing parts.
If you would like to sell, ask for an assessment before assuming a payment. Donation is another possible route for suitable equipment, but confirm the recipient's requirements first. A charity or community group may have different needs from a buyer, and an old handset is not automatically useful simply because it powers on.
Deal with your information before the phone leaves you
Check that you have the photographs, contacts and files you want to keep. Follow the manufacturer's preparation process to remove your accounts and personal information. Use Apple's current iPhone guidance or Google's Android preparation guide, as appropriate to your handset.
Take out personal SIM and memory cards, and ask your mobile provider about transferring service or handling an eSIM. Keep passwords and recovery codes private. If the phone is dead, tell the receiving organisation that normal erasure has not been completed and agree the data-handling route before passing it on.
Find a proper electrical recycling point
When repair, sale or donation is unsuitable, use the Recycle Your Electricals locator to find a suitable collection point. Check the accepted devices, opening arrangements and any relevant instructions before visiting.
A phone is electrical equipment, even when it no longer works. It should not go into general rubbish or the household bin for paper and packaging. Keep related cables separate enough to identify them and ask which accessories the collection point accepts. Recycling is a responsible outcome, but it does not mean the item will earn money.
Report battery damage before moving the device
A swollen, leaking or otherwise damaged battery needs specific handling. Do not ship the phone or add it to an ordinary parcel. Royal Mail's guidance prohibits defective and damaged lithium batteries in the post.
Describe the issue to an appropriate local receiving organisation before bringing the phone. Do not remove an internal battery just to meet a recycling instruction. Recycle Your Electricals explains the separate routes for loose batteries and equipment with batteries inside.
Ask EXE before choosing a paid sale
EXE considers suitable devices for purchase through a free manual enquiry. Share the model, condition and location first; not every phone can be bought or accepted. An appointment in Redhill, agreed UK post-in or eligible collection must be arranged with the team.
For an accepted purchase, payment is by bank transfer after inspection and agreement of the offer. If resale is unsuitable, discuss the available options or use an appropriate recycling point rather than sending an unagreed device.
Sources and further guidance
Follow the official instructions for your own device and software version.
www.exe.co.uk — recyclewww.exe.co.uk — www.exe.co.uk — contactsupport.apple.com — 109511support.google.com — 17299872recycleyourelectricals.org.uk — recycleyourelectricals.org.uk — recycling batteries 2www.postoffice.co.uk — what can i sendTell us what you have.
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