Q&A: How do I recycle my old cookware?

I just bought a new set of cookware. What's the best way to get rid of my old pots and pans?

Selecting the right cookware is easy, but getting rid of an old set, especially a 10-piece ensemble, isn't so obvious. You can donate usable pots and pans to Goodwill or the Salvation Army or list them on Freecycle. If the cookware is unusable, contact your municipal department of public works to ask about recycling.

Now, if you buy Calphalon's new Unison cookware, you can send your old set, no matter its condition or manufacturer, to Calphalon for free recycling. You pack your old set in a box that comes with your new cookware, attach the prepaid mailing label, and drop it off at a FedEx location.

Calphalon will take nonstick and uncoated cookware. (Glass and plastic items are not accepted.) After sorting, the pots and pans are sent to a company that processes the metal for reuse. 

Among other corporate recyclers, some Walmart stores collect used auto batteries, tires, and motor oil; Costco recycles electronic items; and Home Depot and Ikea take used compact fluorescent lightbulbs.—Kimberly Janeway | e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook

Essential information: Check out our latest ratings of cookware (available to subscribers), which covers nonstick, uncoated, and green cookware.