iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The crossed-out wheeled bin means electrical and electronic equipment must be collected separately from unsorted household waste under European Union WEEE rules. It is an end-of-life disposal mark—not a warning that the device is broken, dangerous, recalled, or banned. Check your local authority or retailer for the right electronics collection or take-back route.
What does the crossed-out bin mean?
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive defines the crossed-out wheeled bin as the symbol indicating separate collection of electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Its purpose is to help reduce electronics being discarded as unsorted municipal waste and to make separate collection easier. The mark is intended for equipment at the end of its useful life; it does not, by itself, say anything about whether a product is defective or unsafe. Directive 2012/19/EU, Annex IX says the symbol must be printed visibly, legibly, and indelibly.
Can I put a marked device in the regular trash?
If the equipment is ready to discard, do not put it in unsorted household waste where EU WEEE rules apply. Use an appropriate separate collection or return system instead. The directive provides for consumer information about available collection and return systems, but it does not name one universal drop-off location. The right option and which devices it accepts depend on the place where you live.
Recommended Free Tools
- Check your municipality or local waste authority’s instructions for electronics collection.
- Ask the retailer whether it accepts the device through a take-back scheme.
- Confirm that the specific collection point accepts your type of equipment before travelling there.
Why is the symbol sometimes on the box or paperwork?
The equipment itself is normally marked, but the consolidated EU directive allows the symbol to appear on packaging, instructions for use, and the warranty instead when marking the product is impractical because of its size or function. The consolidated text dated 8 April 2024 names EN 50419:2022 as the preferred marking standard. Consolidated Directive 2012/19/EU, Article 14(4)
#1 Best Overall
- PCR: Made of post-consumer recycled resin for commercial recycling use
- BUILT-IN HANDLES: Enable easier lifting and carrying
- DESIGNED TO EASILY STACK: Designed to stack or nest for increased productivity
- DURABLE: Commercial grade construction to withstand years of indoor and outdoor use
- EASY TO CLEAN: Texture and design prevent liquid and debris build up for easy cleaning
Does this rule apply everywhere?
The meaning described here comes from EU WEEE legislation. It does not establish the complete disposal rules for every country. Collection arrangements, accepted devices, and local requirements can differ, so use your country’s or municipality’s guidance rather than assuming that a particular drop-off route applies everywhere.
What if the crossed-out bin is on a battery?
An earlier EU Batteries Directive also used the crossed-out wheeled bin for separate collection of batteries, accumulators, and battery packs. That historical fact does not establish current battery-disposal requirements. For a battery, check current local guidance and the applicable rules for your location. Directive 2006/66/EC, Annex II
Quick Recap
Best Value
- PACK OF 6: Comes with 6 18 Gal Recycling Boxes for use in various areas of a home or business
- PCR: Made of post-consumer recycled resin for home or commercial recycling use
- BUILT-IN HANDLES: Enable easier lifting and carrying
- DESIGNED TO EASILY STACK: Designed to stack or nest for easy storage when not in use
- DURABLE: Commercial grade construction to withstand years of indoor and outdoor use
Rank #4
- Space Saving Profile - The Highboy bin is perfect for tight or compact spaces; its narrow design and sleek shape make it ideal for the kitchen, garage, office, or other areas where space is limited while still large enough for household recycling.
- Easy Bag Removal - This indoor or outdoor recycle bin was designed with a tapered shape and vented sides to make it simple to remove a trash bag. Eliminate the struggle to remove a full bag of waste. The recommended bag size for ideal use is 33 gallons.
- Dustpan Edge - Sweep debris directly into the slim trash can with a dustpan edge that eliminates the need for a separate dustpan, making it easy and efficient to clean. The waste container is also made with smooth plastic to ensure easy cleaning.
- Swing Top Lid – The Highboy comes with the premium feature for functionality; a swing top lid to conceal trash while also providing easy access to discard waste. Remove the lid to empty the receptacle and reattach it with ease.
- Easy to Carry - Designed with you in mind, the Highboy durable plastic recycling bin has sturdy pass-through handles on top and a hand groove on the bottom. This makes moving the heavy-duty garbage can easier than ever.
Rank #3
- PCR: Made of post-consumer recycled resin for commercial recycling use
- BUILT-IN HANDLES: Enable easier lifting and carrying
- DESIGNED TO EASILY STACK: Designed to stack or nest for increased productivity
- DURABLE: Commercial grade construction to withstand years of indoor and outdoor use
- EASY TO CLEAN: Texture and design prevent liquid and debris build up for easy cleaning
Rank #2
- Recycling & Garbage Bin: This spacious blue bin makes waste disposal and recycling easy. With a generous capacity, it’s designed to help you collect and sort rubbish efficiently.
- Blue Waste Bin: Measuring 22.25" L x 17.25" W x 14.25" H, this recycling trash can offers a 17-gallon capacity and weighs only 3.92 lbs. It has a low profile and fits discreetly in any space.
- Home Recycling Tote: Built with tall side walls, carry handles, and injection-molded construction with a cross-stacking design, this bin ensures durability, ease of use, and easy storage.
- Versatile Bin: Ideal for home, office, garage, or outdoor use, this versatile recycling container features an easy-to-identify Mobius loop symbol and address bar for simple sorting and organization.
- Create a Gracious Home: At Gracious Living, we’re committed to making innovative and high-quality products to help people live more organized and gracious lives in homes they love.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
