Clare Division : (989) 386-7552 | Chase Division : (231) 832-2955 | Montcalm Division : (989) 328-2250

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household items to recycle for cash

10 Common Household Items You Can Recycle for Cash in Central Michigan

Don’t Toss It—Cash It In: Household Recycling That Pays Off

You’d be surprised how much value is hiding in your garage, shed, or basement. From old appliances to broken tools, everyday household items often contain scrap metals that can be recycled for cold, hard cash.

At Fair Salvage Company, with convenient locations in Clare, Chase, and Montcalm, MI, we help homeowners, DIYers, and weekend scrappers turn clutter into cash. Whether you’re cleaning out the garage or clearing an estate, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

“Old washing machines, fridges, and stoves—we take all of those. If you have one sitting in your garage, bring it in.”
Jon Fair, Fair Salvage Company

Why Recycle Household Items for Cash?

  • Earn extra money while decluttering
  • Reduce landfill waste and support local recycling
  • Free up space in garages, basements, and sheds
  • Contribute to sustainability by reusing valuable metals

And when you choose Fair Salvage, you’re not just recycling—you’re working with a trusted, family-owned business that treats every customer with honesty and respect.

10 Household Items to Recycle for Cash

Here’s a look at some of the most common household items we accept—and how to get the most value from them.

1. Washing Machines & Dryers

These appliances contain a variety of valuable metals, especially steel and aluminum. If the drum or motor is still intact, that’s even better.

2. Refrigerators & Freezers

Old fridges are heavy and often overlooked—but they’re loaded with metal.

Just make sure the freon is removed by a professional before recycling.

3. Stoves & Ovens

One of the easiest large household items to recycle. These typically include steel, cast iron, and copper wiring.

One Montcalm customer brought in a broken stove from the 1980s and walked away with enough cash to cover a weekend’s groceries.

4. Microwaves

Small but valuable. Microwaves contain a mix of steel, copper coils, and aluminum parts.

5. Old Tools

Broken hand tools, power tools that no longer run, or rusted-out toolboxes—all of these are recyclable.

💡 Pro Tip: Cut power cords and separate aluminum handles from steel shafts if you want a cleaner payout.

6. Metal Shelving & Racking

Garage shelving or store fixtures made of metal can be recycled easily—especially if they’re steel.

7. Fencing & Gate Panels

Chain link fences and iron gates take up space. Bring them in and earn from the weight.

8. Lawnmowers (Push or Riding)

Push mowers typically contain aluminum and steel. Remove gas and oil before bringing it in.

9. Metal Patio Furniture

Broken chairs, table frames, or even umbrella stands often contain recyclable steel or cast aluminum.

10. Cables & Extension Cords

Even worn-out cords have copper inside. Strip the rubber if you want to boost the value.

How to Disassemble for Maximum Scrap Value

You don’t need to be a mechanic to increase your scrap payout. Just a little effort can go a long way:

  • Remove Non-Metal Attachments: Plastic knobs, wooden handles, or rubber insulation lower your return.
  • Separate Metals: Group copper, aluminum, steel, and brass separately.
  • Label Your Bins or Buckets: Stay organized—especially if you’re bringing multiple loads.

A family from Clare made over $600 during spring cleaning simply by sorting through old appliances, scrap lawn equipment, and wires.

How to Identify High-Value Materials

Knowing what you’re holding makes a big difference. Here are a few quick clues:

  • Copper: Reddish, non-magnetic, found in wiring and plumbing.
  • Brass: Yellowish, heavy, often in decorative fixtures and valves.
  • Aluminum: Light, silver-white, commonly found in siding and furniture.
  • Steel: Magnetic and heavy, the most common scrap metal.
  • Cast Iron: Heavy, rough texture—think tubs, cookware, or stoves.

Not sure what you’ve got? Our team will help you identify it when you bring it in.

The Fair Salvage Difference

We believe recycling should be simple, profitable, and community-driven. That’s why we:

  • Offer top prices for household scrap in Central Michigan
  • Provide fast unload and weigh-ins at all three locations
  • Help sort and educate you on materials if needed
  • Live by our “No Secrets Program”—real-time, honest pricing

Visit One of Our Three Locations

📍 Clare, MI
📍 Chase, MI
📍 Montcalm, MI

See Hours and Pricing
Contact Us for Questions

Fair Salvage is ready to turn your household junk into something useful—for your wallet and your community.