If you recently got a new laptop, and your old laptop is sitting on a shelf gathering dust, it is time to dust off that old laptop and decide what you want to do with it. There are a few different things that you can do with an old laptop.  You can sell your old laptop, you can donate your old laptop, or you can recycle your old laptop.

#1 Selling Your Old Laptop

Even though your laptop feels old and obsolete to you, that doesn't mean that all interest in your laptop has died. Your laptop may still be perfectly functional, and work really well for someone who just needs a computer that lets them connect to the internet. Your laptop may have parts that someone could salvage and use again.

There is a surprisingly robust marketplace for old tech, including laptops, online. There are lots of different places beyond Craigslist where you can sell old technology, you just have to research the available online and local options. This is a great way to get a little cash for your old laptop.

Just remember, before you sell your laptop, you are going to want to erase your hard drive. If you are really worried about what's on your hard drive, you can remove the hard drive and sell the computer without a hard drive.

#2 Donate Your Old Laptop

If your old laptop still works, donating your laptop is a great idea. Having access to a computer has become more essential for students; however, many children don't have access to a laptop or tablet to do the homework that they are assigned. This can put a hardship on a children's family, who then have to seek and find ways for their child to get online after school.

There are lots of different community organizations that provide access to computers for families in need, or literally give computers to families in need. Your laptop may be done for you, but it can still be a great learning device for someone else.

#3 Recycle Your Old Laptop

If you don't want to donate your old laptop, and you don't want to sell it, your next best option is to recycle your laptop. Your laptop is made out of valuable parts that can be broken down and put to good use again.

There are lots of ways to recycle old electronics. Your city may have an electronic recycling program and special places where you can drop off old electronics. There may be private companies in the area that offer recycling opportunities. Many electronic companies now offer electronic recycling as well. Look into your recycling options, and you will find one that works well for you.

Don't let your old laptop collect dust. Sell it for a little extra cash. Donate your laptop and give it a second life for a family in need. Recycle your old laptop so the parts inside of it can be put to use again.