Here are five ideas to help recycle an old computer mouse. 

What Things Can You Do With an Old Mouse?

There are many creative ways to repurpose and recycle an old computer mouse. The ideas below are organized from the easiest (which needs basic skills) to the more challenging (which requires technical skills).  The ideal way to dispose of an old mouse is to use a local recycling center. Also, search the manufacturer’s site for any recycling programs. For instance, Logitech has a global recycling program trying to minimize e-waste. Dell has mail-back programs and a partnership with Goodwill locations around the U.S. which takes back any computer or computer accessories. Is your old mouse in working condition? Freecycling is a more sustainable alternative to recycling. Please find a local freecycling chapter or a website that can find a new user. A video from Electronic Recyclers highlights some of the usable parts from a broken mouse. The five ideas above are a jumping-off point to search for more ways to repurpose the old mouse. For instance, you can use the trackballs from several non-optical mice as a cat toy or use the plastic casing as a soap mold. Make it a thumb rule to think of a creative recycling idea before you discard an old computer mouse.