All Cell Phones...Go to Heaven?

I remember my first cell phone--it was a black and white screened Kyrocera that looked like a metallic beetle. If it hadn't been stolen, I probably would still have it. I've also owned a Chocolate, which, really, the only reason I bought it was because of its name. 

I've also had a BlackBerry. Again, got it for the name. 

As I sit here and think of all the cell phones I've had over the years, my mind draws a blank. There have just been so many. And thinking of where they may be right now is an even harder feat. 

I'm sure many of you have old cell phones lying around, too, collecting dust and being forgotten about in junk drawers or boxes that will never be opened again. With seemingly constant new updates with the latest and greatest technology--not to mention upgrades and promotional discounts for  loyal customers--it's no wonder we cycle through phones so quickly. 

But what do you do with old cell phones? Do you sell them, donate them, or recycle them? As a matter of fact, you can do all three! 

An article over at My Two Dollars called What To Do With Old Cell Phones lists all the possible ways you can put your old cell phone to good use. Here are some highlights: 

Sell (Ready for a homophones like crazy?). Selling your old cell phones for money can be worthwhile, giving you a little extra cash when you might really need it. This article advises selling phones that are up to date (i.e. smart phones) so that you can get your money's worth. Sites like eBay and Sell Your Cell are great resources to help get your mobile on the market. 

Donate. There are many organizations that take used cell phones, like Cell Phones for Soldiers or the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. This can be a great way to declutter your space by getting and also give back to a charity that can use them for a greater good. Be sure to erase all personal data from the phone and remove the SIM card before donating. 

Recycle. Recycling cell phones encourages prevention of toxic materials from polluting the environment from electronic waste. Plus, these cell phones could then be used for future cell phones/electronics. Call2Recycle is a great resource for finding centers near you that offer this type of recycling. 

No matter what you do with your old cell phone, whether you sell it, donate it, recycle it, or give it to your niece so she can learn early on that having a cell phone is necessary and the 'cool' thing to do (no, don't do that, that's a bad idea), there are options out there. Anything is better than just letting it collect dust. 

Keep cool my babies!

Michelle