This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. Read our affiliate disclosure to learn more.

Are you on the lookout for innovative ways to earn some extra money while also being environmentally friendly? Look no further than your garbage!!! You might be amazed to know that many items that we consider waste can be transformed into cash. From plastic bottles to used ink cartridges, there are numerous opportunities to make some money from your garbage. In this blog post, I will discover 20 of the most effective ways to turn your trash into cash. From selling your old electronics to scanning receipts for cash, there are plenty of options for everyone. Not only will you be earning extra money, but you’ll also be contributing to reducing waste and preserving the environment. So, the next time you’re about to throw something away, give a second thought about whether it can be transformed into cash instead. The 20 best ways to turn your trash into cash are as follows:

1. Selling Plastic Bottles

Selling plastic bottles is a great way to turn your trash into cash. Not only you are recycling the bottles and keeping them out of landfills, but you can also make money by taking them to a recycling center or redeeming them at a bottle deposit. This is a simple and easy way to make some extra money while also doing your part for the environment.

2. Used Ink Cartridges

Used ink cartridges can be a source of cash by selling them to recycling companies or stores. Help the environment & earn money by keeping cartridges out of landfills. Check store policies before bringing them in, as not all types are accepted.

3. Cash For Junk Batteries

Junk batteries can be transformed from trash to cash by taking them to recycling centers. Earn money and keep toxic materials out of landfills. Check store policies before visiting, as not all types of batteries are accepted. This is a simple way to earn extra cash and help the environment.

4. Scrap Metal

Scrap metal can be transformed from trash to cash. Sell it to a scrap yard & not only earn money but also reduce waste & preserve natural resources. From old appliances, car parts, and copper wire, to aluminum cans, there are many ways to make money out of scrap metal.

5. Sell Your Used Electronics

Don’t let your old electronics collect dust, sell them for cash. Many retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Gazelle buy used devices in good condition. This not only earns you money but also helps the environment by reducing e-waste. Check store policies before selling.

6. Sell Your Cardboard Boxes

Sell your used cardboard boxes and turn them into cash. Many businesses, such as packaging and shipping companies, are willing to purchase them from you. This not only earns you some extra cash but also helps the environment by reducing waste and promoting recycling. Be sure to check the company’s policy and requirements before selling your used cardboard boxes.

7. Turn Your Cooking Oil into Cash

Sell your used cooking oil for cash. Recycling companies convert it into biodiesel, a sustainable fuel source. Not only to earn money but also to reduce waste and promote environmental sustainability. Check company policy before selling.

8. Scan Your Receipts for Cash

Scan your receipts and earn cash. Many apps and websites such as Ibotta and Fetch Rewards, pay you for scanning your receipts from grocery and other stores. Not only you earn extra cash but also get rewarded for your shopping habits. Check the app or website’s policy and requirements before uploading your receipts.

9. How to Sell Reclaimed Wood

Sell reclaimed wood for cash. Furniture, flooring, and more, home improvement stores and online retailers buy reclaimed wood. Earn money and preserve natural resources by reducing waste. Check store or website policy before selling.

10. Selling Glass Bottles

Sell glass bottles for cash. Many recycling centers and specialty stores pay for glass bottles that are clean and in good condition. Not only earn extra cash but also help the environment by keeping these recyclable materials out of landfills. Check the store’s policy and requirements before bringing your glass bottles.

11. Selling Your Old Appliances

Don’t let your old appliances gather dust in the garage, sell them and earn some extra cash. Clean and repair them before listing them on online marketplaces to maximize their value. Upgrade to newer appliances without breaking the bank.

12. Cash for Food Scraps

Cash for food scraps? Yes, it’s a thing!!! Communities across the country are incentivizing residents to compost their food waste by offering money in return. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also helps create nutrient-rich soil for local gardens and farms. Turn your waste into wealth- A sustainable solution for both nature and the community.

13. Selling Aluminum Cans

Want to earn extra cash and make a positive impact on the environment? Consider collecting and selling aluminum cans. Many scrap yards are willing to pay for them, and it’s a great way to reduce waste and earn money. Sorting and crushing them can increase your payout.

14. Money For Junk Mail

Want to turn your junk mail into cash? Many paper mills will pay for clean, sorted, and baled junk mail. It’s a simple way to earn money while also reducing paper waste. Start saving your unwanted mail and turn it into an income stream.

15. Recycle Your Wine Corks for Cash

Want to make some extra cash while also being environmentally friendly? Consider recycling your wine corks. Many companies will pay for clean and sorted corks, which can be used to make products like flooring or even fashion accessories. Start saving those corks and turn them into a source of income.

16. Selling Toilet Paper Rolls

Want to make some extra money while also reducing waste? Consider selling your used toilet paper rolls. Many crafters and artists use them for various DIY projects, so you can easily sell them online or at local craft fairs. Start saving those rolls and turn them into a source of income.

17. Sell Your Old Clothing

Want to make some extra money and give your old clothes a new life? Consider selling them to second-hand stores or online platforms. Not only can you earn some cash, but you’re also reducing waste by keeping clothes out of landfills and giving them a new home.

18. Make Your Own Compost

Want to take control of your gardening needs while also being environmentally conscious? Try making your own compost using food scraps and yard waste. Not only will it create nutrient-rich soil for your plants, but it’s also a cost-effective and sustainable solution that saves you money on expensive fertilizers.

19. Sell Your Old Books

Unleash the hidden value of your bookshelf by selling your old books. Not only will you declutter your home, but you’ll also earn some extra cash and give those books a chance to be loved again by someone new.

20. Sell Unused Gift Cards for Cash

Got unused gift cards collecting dust in your drawer? Don’t let them go to waste, put your trash to work by turning it into cash. Many websites and apps allow you to sell or exchange your unwanted gift cards for cash or other cards. It’s a simple way to earn some extra money and declutter your wallet.

The Bottom Line

There are many creative ways to turn your trash into cash. From selling old clothes and electronics to recycling scrap metal and composting food scraps, there are plenty of opportunities to earn money while also reducing waste. With a little effort and research, you can find the perfect solution for your needs and make the most out of your waste. You can follow the above-mentioned 20 best ways to turn your trash into cash!!!