Let’s be honest, you’ve got one. It’s in that “junk drawer” in the kitchen, along with dead batteries and old cables. It’s your old phone, and it’s just sitting there gathering dust. Most people let these devices pile up, not realizing they’re looking at a stack of wasted cash, a security risk, and a missed opportunity.
As someone who works with tech every day, I can tell you that “out of sight, out of mind” is a bad strategy. That old phone still has value. It’s time to clear out the clutter. Here’s a pro guide on what to do with an old phone, from securing your data to turning it into a tool you’ll actually use.
Step 1: Before You Do *Anything* Else, WIPE IT (The Right Way)
This is the most important step. Do not sell, donate, or even give a phone to your kids without securely wiping your personal data.
The Rookie Mistake: Just hitting “Factory Reset” and thinking you’re safe. A standard reset just “forgets” where the data is, but a skilled data recovery expert can still find your old photos, bank info, and private messages. It’s a huge privacy risk.
The Pro-Tip: Encrypt *First*, Then Reset
For any older Android device (newer ones often do this automatically), you need to encrypt it *before* you reset. This scrambles your data into unreadable junk. If someone recovers it, all they get is garbage.
- Encrypt It: Go to Settings > Security > Encrypt phone. This can take an hour, so plug it in.
- Reset It: *After* it’s encrypted, go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset).
- Final Check: Don’t forget to remove your SIM card and any MicroSD card!
(For iPhones, a standard “Erase All Content and Settings” is fine, as their data is already encrypted by default.)
Turn It Into a Free Security Camera or Baby Monitor
This is my favorite re-purpose. That high-tech camera is just sitting there. You can set it up as a free, Wi-Fi-based security monitor in about 10 minutes.
The Pro Move: Don’t try to build something yourself. Use a dedicated app. I recommend Alfred or Manything. You install the app on your old phone (in “Camera” mode) and your new phone (in “Viewer” mode). As long as the old phone is plugged in and on Wi-Fi, you’ve got a live-streaming pet cam or baby monitor with motion detection.
The Rookie Mistake: Relying on the battery. It will be dead in hours. This only works if you keep the phone plugged in 24/7. Find a spot for it and dedicate a charger.
Give It to Your Kids (The Safe Way)
An old phone is the perfect “starter device” for your kids. It’s a Wi-Fi-only “mini-tablet” for games and videos. But you *must* lock it down.
The Pro Move: After you factory reset it, set it up using Google’s Family Link (for Android) or Apple’s Screen Time (for iPhone). This lets you control everything. You can:
- Approve or block app downloads.
- Disable in-app purchases.
- Set daily screen time limits.
- Filter what they can see online.
The Rookie Mistake: Giving your kid the phone while it’s still logged into *your* Google or Apple account. You are one “oops”-click away from a $500 bill for in-game currency.
The Money: Trade It In, Sell It, or Recycle It
Your old phone is cash. How much cash depends on how much hassle you’re willing to take on.
Option 1: Trade It In (The Easy Money)
When you’re ready to upgrade to a new phone, you can almost always trade in your old one. Apple, Samsung, Google, and all the major carriers (like AT&T and Verizon) offer this. It’s the fastest way to get a few hundred dollars off your new device.
Pro: Zero hassle. Con: You will get the lowest value for it.
Option 2: Sell It Yourself (The Most Money)
If your phone is in good condition and only a year or two old, sell it yourself. You’ll get way more than a trade-in.
The Pro Move: Don’t use Craigslist. Use a site built for tech, like Swappa or eBay. They have better buyer protection. Be honest about the condition—take clear photos of any scratches and mention the battery health. Honesty sells faster and avoids disputes.
Option 3: Recycle It for Cash (The “It’s Something” Money)
If your phone is old, cracked, or not worth much, don’t just throw it in the trash (it’s toxic landfill!). Use a recycling kiosk like ecoATM. You’ll find them in malls and Walmarts. You plug in your device, it scans it, and gives you a few bucks in cash on the spot. It’s not a lot, but it’s better than nothing and it’s good for the environment.
Donate It (To a Good Cause)
If you don’t need the cash, your old phone can be a lifeline for someone else. But you have to do it right.
The Rookie Mistake: Dropping it in a random Goodwill bin. They’re often not equipped to handle and secure electronics.
The Pro Move: Use a dedicated, reputable charity. Cell Phones for Soldiers turns them into funds for troops. Secure the Call gives 911-only emergency phones to domestic violence shelters and senior citizens. This is a fantastic way to give your old device a new, important purpose.
Conclusion: Clear Out the Clutter
That old phone in your drawer is a paperweight full of potential. It can be a security tool, a kid’s toy, or a check to help pay for your next upgrade.
Just remember the golden rule: Wipe it, then use it. Now you have a professional plan for what to do with an old phone.
Recycle them