CDs and DVDs were once the kings of storage � holding everything from your favorite playlists to precious photo backups. But today, millions of these optical discs sit forgotten in drawers or end up in landfills, where their polycarbonate plastic and aluminum layers don’t break down.
So, can you recycle CDs? Yes � but not in your curbside bin.
CD recycling helps reduce e-waste, keeps harmful plastics out of the environment, and supports the reuse of valuable materials. Whether you’re cleaning out your old music stash or decluttering computer backups, responsible CD disposal is more important than ever.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to recycle CDs and DVDs properly, where to take them, and why it matters. Let’s turn your dusty disc pile into an eco-win.
Key Takeaway: How to Recycle CDs and DVDs
CDs and DVDs are recyclable, but not in your curbside bin.
They’re made of layered materials like polycarbonate plastic and aluminum, which require specialized processing. To recycle them, use certified e-waste centers, mail-in programs, or reuse them creatively. Use the Green Directory to find local CD recycling options near you.
Can You Recycle CDs?
Yes � CDs, DVDs, and even burned discs are recyclable, but not through your regular curbside recycling bin.
CDs are made of polycarbonate plastic and a thin layer of aluminum, both of which require specialized recycling processes. Tossing them in standard household recycling can contaminate the waste stream, which is why they’re classified as a form of electronic waste or e-waste.
To recycle CDs properly, you’ll need to take them to a certified e-waste recycler or a facility that accepts optical media. These centers use equipment to shred and separate materials so they can be reused in office supplies, automotive parts, or even new discs � keeping these plastics out of landfills.
Wondering about old VHS tapes? Like CDs, they contain non-biodegradable plastics and are only recyclable through specialty services.
So, if you’re cleaning out your media shelf, don’t trash those discs. Recycle them the right way and help reduce plastic waste, conserve resources, and support the circular economy.
Why CDs Can’t Be Recycled Like Regular Plastic
CDs are made of layered materials like polycarbonate plastic, aluminum, and lacquer � which makes them unrecyclable in standard curbside bins. These components require specialized processing that only certified e-waste recyclers can handle.
To break it down: the disc’s core is polycarbonate plastic, a fossil fuel-based material known for its strength and clarity. A thin aluminum layer enables laser readability, while a protective lacquer coating seals the layers. Most CDs also include printed labels made from ink or paper, and they’re usually stored in plastic jewel cases or cardboard sleeves.
This complex structure makes it nearly impossible to recycle CDs like ordinary household plastics. Unless dismantled by proper recycling facilities, they can persist in landfills for centuries.
Here’s a quick breakdown of typical CD components:
- Polycarbonate plastic: Forms the physical disc, derived from fossil fuels.
- Aluminum: Used for reflecting the laser that reads the data.
- Lacquer: A layer that seals the aluminum and protects it.
- Artwork/Label: Often made from paper or printable material, it adorns the non-playing side of the CD.
- CD Cases/Jackets: These can be made from a variety of materials including jewel cases made of plastic, paper sleeves, or even cardboard.
This multi-layer structure makes CDs difficult to process in traditional plastic recycling systems. The materials need to be mechanically separated, which only specialized e-waste recyclers can handle. And because these materials don’t break down naturally, CDs contribute to the growing e-waste problem if not properly disposed of.
Understanding what CDs are made of is the first step toward recycling them responsibly � and reducing the environmental impact of decades of digital media.
How Long Does It Take for CDs to Decompose?
CDs take to decompose in a landfill. That’s because they’re made of polycarbonate plastic, a petroleum-based material designed to resist heat, moisture, and light � making them extremely durable but environmentally harmful.
Now multiply that by the millions of CDs and DVDs discarded each year, and the scale of the problem becomes clear. Each CD contributes to the growing plastic waste crisis, persisting in landfills for centuries unless properly recycled.
The Environmental Footprint of CDs
It takes significant resources to manufacture CDs. Just 30 discs (about a pound of plastic) require:
- 300 cubic feet of natural gas
- 2 cups of crude oil
- 24 gallons of water
That’s not including the fuel used to ship and package them. And when millions of CDs � including software boxes and burned discs � are tossed or incinerated, they can release toxic chemicals like dioxins into the air and soil.
But there’s good news: CDs can be recycled. When processed by specialized recyclers, their materials can be turned into useful products like auto parts, office supplies, streetlight housings, and ice scrapers.
How to Recycle CDs (And Where to Take Them)
Recycling CDs isn’t as simple as tossing them into your curbside bin. Because of their layered construction â€� polycarbonate plastic, aluminum, and lacquer â€� they require specialized handling.Ěý
Here’s exactly how to do it right, with practical options for every situation:
Step 1: Separate Discs from Cases
Remove CDs and DVDs from jewel cases or paper sleeves. Discs and cases are often recycled through different channels. You’ll also want to remove any paper inserts � those can go into your regular paper recycling bin.
Step 2: Clean and Sort
Quickly wipe your discs with a soft cloth to remove dust or residue. Group them by type: music CDs, data discs, DVDs, burned or blank discs. This helps recyclers process them more efficiently.
Step 3: Use Certified E-Waste Recycling Centers
Curbside recycling won’t accept CDs � they contaminate the recycling stream. Instead, search for certified e-waste recycling centers that accept optical media. These facilities shred and separate the plastic and metal layers, keeping toxic material out of landfills.
📍 If you’re in the San Francisco Bay Area, GreenCitizen accepts CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes at our Burlingame EcoCenter. We also offer a mail-in program and Green Directory to help you find trusted recyclers near you.
Step 4: Donate If Discs Are Still Usable
Libraries, schools, thrift stores, and local donation centers may accept used CDs and DVDs, especially if they’re in good condition. Record stores often take music CDs, and some even offer store credit or trade-ins.
Step 5: Sell Valuable Discs
Popular albums, vintage titles, or box sets may still have resale value. Use platforms like eBay, Amazon, Decluttr, or local marketplaces to give your discs a second life � and maybe earn a few bucks in the process.
Step 6: Repurpose for DIY Projects
CDs can be turned into coasters, suncatchers, mosaic tiles, clocks, and other creative crafts. If you’re artistically inclined (or have kids), reuse is a fun way to keep them out of landfills.
Step 7: Recycle the CD Cases
Most jewel cases are made of #6 polystyrene plastic, which some specialized recyclers accept. Separate the clear plastic from paper inserts. While not all municipal programs accept #6 plastic, it’s worth checking with your local facility.
Bonus Tip: If you’re unsure where to take your CDs, use GreenCitizen’s Green Directory, a free tool to find nearby certified recycling centers for all kinds of e-waste â€� including CDs and DVD cases.
Can You Recycle CD Cases?
Yes, most CD cases are recyclable � but it depends on the type of case and your local recycling rules. CD packaging comes in various materials, including polystyrene (#6 plastic), cardboard, and paper. Some can go in recycling bins, while others require special handling or reuse. Tossing them in the trash may be legal in some areas, but it’s rarely the eco-friendly choice.
Here’s how to identify your CD case type, check if it’s recyclable, and know how to dispose of it properly:
Jewel Cases (Hard Plastic #6)
These are the classic CD cases â€� rigid, clear, and clunky. They’re made from polystyrene, labeled as #6 plastic, which most curbside recycling programs reject. That’s because #6 is brittle, difficult to process, and not in high demand.
Still, many specialty recycling centers will accept jewel cases, especially those focused on e-waste or harder plastics. Just remember to remove any paper inserts before recycling.
If recycling isn’t an option, avoid trashing them when you can. Polystyrene takes hundreds of years to break down and releases microplastics into the environment.
Slim Cases
Slim cases are nearly identical to jewel cases, just thinner � often used for software, singles, or promo discs. They’re made from the same polystyrene material and follow the same recycling rules.
Remove any inserts and check with a local plastic or e-waste facility that handles #6 plastic. Don’t assume your curbside bin can take them � most can’t.
Digipaks (Cardboard + Plastic Tray)
Digipaks are the hybrid packaging style you often see with collector’s editions or indie music albums. The outer shell is cardboard, while the inner tray is plastic � usually glued in.
To recycle a Digipak properly:
- Tear off the plastic tray and discard it if your recycler won’t take it.
- Recycle the cardboard cover with mixed paper or cardboard waste.
Never toss the whole Digipak intact. Even a small piece of plastic can disrupt the paper recycling process.
Paper Sleeves
The most eco-friendly option by far, paper sleeves are simple cardboard or paper envelopes. They’re usually 100% recyclable, and some can even go into your compost bin if uncoated.
If your sleeve is glossy or printed, check whether your recycling program accepts coated paper. Most do � just be sure it’s dry and free of any plastic windows or stickers.
Pro Tip: If your local recycling program doesn’t accept CD cases, use a directory like GreenCitizen’s Green Directory to find nearby drop-off sites that do. Or, consider repurposing jewel cases into DIY organizers, mini photo frames, seed sorters, or craft material storage.
How to Upcycle Old CDs
As we venture further into the world of CD recycling, it’s time to spark some creativity and explore the exciting opportunities that upcycling offers. Upcycling, or creatively reusing old items, allows us to give a second life to our old CDs, transforming them into something new and functional. Here, I will share some inventive ideas to help you upcycle your old CDs.
Art Projects
- Mosaic Art: Break your old CDs into pieces and use them to create stunning mosaic art pieces. The reflective surface of the CDs adds a sparkling effect to your artwork.
- CD Sculptures: Stack and glue CDs together to form interesting sculptures. You can paint them to add a personal touch.
- Wind Chimes: Create a beautiful wind chime using old CDs, string, and beads. Hang it in your garden or balcony to add a whimsical touch to your outdoor space.
Practical Household Items
- Coasters: Turn your old CDs into coasters to protect your furniture from stains. You can decorate them with fabric or paint to match your home décor.
- Garden Decor: Use CDs to create reflective garden décor that not only beautifies your garden but also helps in keeping birds away from your plants.
- Mirror: Create a decorative mirror by gluing pieces of broken CDs around a round mirror. The CDs will give a shimmering frame effect, adding a unique touch to your space.
Educational Tools
- Learning Aids: Old CDs can be used to create learning aids for children. You can paint them with different colors and write alphabets or numbers on them to make learning fun.
- Solar System Model: Create a solar system model using CDs for a school project. Paint the CDs to represent different planets and hang them from a hanger to create a 3D model of the solar system.
Personal Accessories
- Jewelry: Craft unique jewelry pieces using pieces of CDs. You can make earrings, necklaces, or bracelets with the shiny, iridescent pieces of the CDs.
- Bag Decor: Customize your bags by attaching pieces of CDs to them. It will give your bag a funky and unique look.
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to upcycling CDs. It’s all about letting your creativity flow and coming up with innovative ways to reuse old CDs. Not only does upcycling help in reducing waste, but it also allows you to create something new and beautiful from something old.
Recycle CDs the Right Way � and Keep Them Out of Landfills
Old CDs may seem useless, but they’re far from trash. By choosing to recycle CDs and DVD cases properly, you help reduce plastic pollution, conserve resources, and support a more circular economy.
Whether you’re dropping them off at a certified e-waste center, donating to a local library, or repurposing them for creative projects � every disc you divert from the landfill makes a difference.
Need help finding where to recycle CDs near you? Use GreenCitizen’s Green Directory to locate trusted recycling centers in your area.
