Preparing Your Device and Why It's Important
At Rescue Recycle, we take data security seriously and follow industry standards for secure data erasure on all donated devices. However, devices are more valuable when accounts like Apple or Google are fully removed. By following these steps, you not only protect your personal data but also maximize the impact your device can have in giving back to animals in need.
Secure Your Data and Help Make a Difference!
How to Erase an iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch and Apple Watch
Method 1
Step 1: Disable “Find My” (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch)
For iPhones with iOS 10.3 or above
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your name displayed at the top of the menu.
3. Navigate to Find My and select it.
4. If “Find My” is enabled, toggle it off (Wi-Fi may be required).
For iPhones with iOS 10.2 or below
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to iCloud in the menu.
3. Find and toggle off Find My iPhone.
4. Enter your Apple ID password when prompted (Wi-Fi may be needed).
Step 2: Reset the Apple device to Factory Settings
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Select General from the menu.
3. Scroll down and choose Reset.
4. Tap Erase All Content & Settings to complete the process.
Method 2
1. Go to iCloud.com/find
2. Sign into Apple account.
3. Select the device(s) you want to erase and remove.
4. Select “erase” to remove personal data, data will automatically be erased if the phone is on and connected to Wi-Fi or cellular, if phone is not on or connected it will be automatically erased next time the phone is connected.
5. Select “remove” to remove “Find My” from the device.
6. All Set!
For iPhones with iOS 10.2 or below
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Go to iCloud in the menu.
3. Find and toggle off Find My iPhone.
4. Enter your Apple ID password when prompted (Wi-Fi may be needed).
Step 2: Reset the Apple device to Factory Settings
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Select General from the menu.
3. Scroll down and choose Reset.
4. Tap Erase All Content & Settings to complete the process.
How to Factory Reset and Remove Google Account from Android Device
Method 1
1. Open Settings app. Swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the gear icon to open Settings. Alternatively, find and select the Settings from your app menu.
2. Navigate to System or System Settings and Select.
3. Select “Reset” or “Reset Options.”
4. Select Factory Reset Option or Erase all data You may need to enter your PIN, pattern, or password to proceed.
5. Once completed and the device is on Set-Up/Welcome screen, your device is fully erased and all accounts have been removed!
Method 2
1. Go to google.com/android/find
2. Log into your Google Account.
3. Select the Device(s) you would like to reset and remove from Google account.
4. Select “Factory Reset Device” and follow the prompts until finished. If the Device is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi or Cellular it will automatically reset now. If the device is off or not connected to Wi-Fi or Cellular it will automatically reset once connected again.
5. All Set!
If you are unsure how to reset your device, contact us with the make and model, we’re happy to help.
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FAQs
What types of electronics can be donated?
Cell phones, iPhones, Androids, Flip cell Phones, Tablets and iPads, handheld game consoles, iPod, MP3 players, cameras, and smartwatches.
We cannot take: Landline telephones, printers, ink cartridges, fax machines, computers, monitors, keyboards, mice, power supplies, laptops, cables, batteries, TV’s, appliances, stereo systems, power tools. Click here to find a local recycler that may take those items.
What types of electronics cannot be sent in the mail-in program?
Landline telephones, printers, ink cartridges, fax machines, computers, monitors, keyboards, mice, power supplies, laptops, cables, batteries, TV’s, appliances, stereo systems, power tools.
Visit Earth911’s website to find a facility that will accept these items
What if my company or organization has a large number of cell phones or tablets to donate?
Contact us and we will help arrange for the shipping of large quantities Or if your organization wants to send it directly, the address is:
Rescue Recycle
PO Box 370
Milam TX 75959What if I can't print the shipping label?
No problem!
We can mail it to you, just shoot us an email with your address and we’ll send it out to you.
Do I get a charitable tax receipt?
We are a for-profit company and therefore cannot issue charitable tax receipts. However, a portion of our profits from refurbished device sales is donated to nonprofit organizations that support animal welfare. While your donation is not tax-deductible, it still contributes to a meaningful cause helping animals in need.
You can visit our Donation Impact page to see examples of how your support is making a difference.
How do I erase data off my cell phone?
Please see our step-by-step instructions on how to erase data and remove accounts from your cell phone.
What if I am unable to remove my data?
We will still accept cell phones and devices that may not be able to be wiped. We take your privacy very seriously and follow every precaution and protocol to destroy any personal data.
What if I want to use my own shipping label to send in my cell phone?
That’s great! Please send devices to:
Rescue Recycle
PO Box 370
Milam TX 75959.Who does my donation help?
The proceeds from refurbished device sales help fund nonprofit organizations that support animal welfare across the U.S. These organizations work to reduce euthanasia rates, provide shelter and medical care, and support rescue efforts through a network of independent animal shelters.
You can visit our Donation Impact page to learn more about how your support helps animals in need.
What if my cell phone is broken or won't turn on?
No problem! We take devices in any condition.
What happens to my device once sent in?
When Rescue Recycle receives your donations, we follow important protocols to ensure that all personal data has been erased, then your device goes into the testing and refurbishing phase; if your phone is deemed resell-able, it will be refurbished and sold with a portion of the proceeds going to an animal welfare charity. If your device is broken or too old to re-sell, it will be sent to our certified R2 e-waste recycler and responsibly recycled.
How to ship a cell phone
Shipping a cell phone as hazardous materials (hazmat) requires careful attention to regulations and packaging guidelines to ensure safety and compliance with carrier policies. Here are instructions for shipping a cell phone with USPS, FedEx, and UPS:General Guidelines for All Carriers- Identify the Battery Type: Ensure the battery is a lithium-ion or lithium metal battery, as most cell phones use these types.
- Battery Condition: Make sure the battery is undamaged and not defective.
- Packaging Requirements:
- Use strong outer packaging.
- Pack the cell phone in a rigid, durable box.
- Use cushioning material to prevent movement within the package.
- Include warning labels if required by the carrier or regulations.
USPS (United States Postal Service)- Package the Cell Phone: Use a strong, rigid box. Place cushioning material around the phone to prevent movement.
- Labeling:
- Include a lithium battery handling label (UN3481 for lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment).
- Ensure the label is visible on the outer packaging.
- Documentation: No specific documentation is generally required for domestic shipments, but always check the latest USPS guidelines.
- Drop-Off: Take the package to a USPS location. Inform the postal worker that the package contains a cell phone with a lithium battery.
FedEx- Package the Cell Phone: Use a sturdy box with cushioning to prevent movement.
- Labeling:
- Apply a lithium battery handling label (UN3481 for lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment).
- Ensure the label is clearly visible.
- Documentation:
- Complete a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods if required (mostly for international shipments).
- Check FedEx Ship Manager for any specific instructions.
- Drop-Off: Take the package to a FedEx location. Inform the representative about the contents and that it includes a lithium battery.
UPS- Package the Cell Phone: Use a strong, rigid box with adequate cushioning.
- Labeling:
- Attach a lithium battery handling label (UN3481 for lithium-ion batteries packed with equipment).
- Ensure the label is visible.
- Documentation:
- UPS may require a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods for certain shipments.
- Use UPS WorldShip software for shipping instructions and compliance.
- Drop-Off: Take the package to a UPS location. Inform the clerk about the contents and the inclusion of a lithium battery.
Additional Tips- Check Carrier Websites: Always refer to the latest guidelines on the USPS, FedEx, and UPS websites, as regulations may change.
- Proper Sealing: Ensure all seams and edges of the package are securely sealed with strong tape.
- Local Regulations: Be aware of any local or international regulations that may apply, especially for international shipments.
By following these steps and checking with the carriers for any recent updates, you can ensure that your cell phone is shipped safely and in compliance with hazmat regulations.
What is an R2 Certified Recycler?
R2 stands for Responsible Recycling and is a standard specifically created for the electronics recycling industry by Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI). SERI is the housing body and ANSI-accredited Standards Development Organization for the R2 Standard: Responsible Recycling Practices for Use in Accredited Certifications Programs.
Stakeholders who contributed to the creation of these standards include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (the EPA was responsible for a study of the implementation of the R2 standards); regulators from state agencies; electronics recyclers, refurbishers, and their trade associations; OEMs/customers of electronics recycling services; and non-governmental organizations.
The standards were then accredited by ANAB, and in 2008, R2 was released. R2 Certification is international, and the standards and guidance have been made available in five languages.
Do you really donate a portion of your profits to help animals?
We’re committed to transparency — not just in words, but in actions. We track and share our donation progress publicly so you can see the real impact of your support.
Learn more about the impact of your support by visiting our Donation Impact page.