Summer is the perfect season to tackle those long-overdue home improvement projects, yard cleanups, and garage cleanouts. As you declutter and repair, you might be surprised by the amount of scrap metal you uncover, old tools, broken appliances, rusting outdoor furniture, and car parts that are long past their prime. Recycling scrap metal isn’t just good for the environment, it can also put a little extra cash in your pocket. But not all metal is created equal, and knowing what you can recycle helps you get the most value and avoid wasting time. Here’s a helpful guide to what scrap metal you can recycle this summer.

Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most commonly recycled metals, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, easy to handle, and found in a wide range of household items. Recyclable aluminum items include:

  • Soda and beer cans
  • Old aluminum lawn chairs and patio furniture
  • Gutters and siding
  • Window frames
  • Car parts and bike frames

Make sure to rinse cans and clean off any debris to ensure the aluminum is in good condition for recycling.

Copper

Copper is one of the most valuable scrap metals you can recycle. Its reddish-brown appearance is easy to spot, and it’s commonly found in:

  • Electrical wiring
  • Plumbing pipes
  • AC units
  • Extension cords and electronics
  • Old roofing materials

Brass

Brass has a distinct yellowish tone and is often used in decorative or plumbing fixtures. Some common brass items you may come across include:

  • Doorknobs and handles
  • Bathroom or kitchen faucets
  • Keys
  • Light fixtures
  • Musical instruments

Though it’s heavier than aluminum, brass typically offers a better return and is easy to recycle.

Steel

Steel is strong, heavy, and found in everything from household appliances to construction materials. You can recycle:

  • Washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers
  • Lawn mowers (with fluids drained)
  • Cast iron pans and tools
  • Bicycles
  • Metal shelving and filing cabinets

Tip: Use a magnet; if it sticks, it’s likely steel or iron.

Iron

Iron is another ferrous (magnetic) metal that can be recycled. It’s most commonly found in:

  • Garden tools
  • Fencing and gates
  • BBQ grills
  • Auto parts and frames
  • Cast iron fixtures

Even if it’s rusty, iron can still be recycled; just make sure it’s free from any plastic or wood attachments.

Appliances and Electronics

While many appliances are made of steel and aluminum, they often include other recyclable metals like copper and brass. This summer, consider recycling:

  • Old refrigerators, freezers, and stoves
  • Microwaves and toaster ovens
  • Air conditioners (remove refrigerants first)
  • Computers and laptops (specialized e-waste recycling may be needed)

Check with your local scrap yard or e-waste recycler to see what items they accept and if any prep work is needed.

Car Parts and Automotive Scrap

If you’ve got an old vehicle sitting around or car parts from repairs, you might be holding onto a small fortune in scrap metal. Recyclable auto parts include:

  • Radiators
  • Brake rotors
  • Engine parts
  • Aluminum rims
  • Batteries (often accepted separately)

Always drain fluids before recycling, and contact your local yard for specific requirements.

Contact Middleboro Recycling

This summer, don’t let scrap metal sit around and rust; turn it into something useful through recycling. Whether it’s aluminum cans from your BBQs, old tools in the shed, or leftover renovation debris, recycling your metal helps reduce waste and can even earn you some extra spending money. Not sure where to take your scrap? Contact Middleboro Recycling for a quick, eco-friendly, and rewarding way to recycle your metal this summer. Give us a call at (508) 946-2383.