You can put VHS tapes in your general waste bin or take them to a recycling centre for disposal.
The outer cases of VHS, Betamax and audio cassette tapes are made of plastic, and theoretically at least, that means they’re recyclable if you’re prepared to take the time and trouble to remove the tape.
The inner tape is not recyclable because it’s coated in toxic metals that could leach in landfill, potentially contaminating the surrounding soil and any nearby water course.
Most charity shops don’t accept video cassettes because they are only likely to end up in the rubbish. And as charity shops have to pay business rates for refuse disposal you will actually be costing them money by donating them.
Instead, you could offer them on your local Freecycle, Gumtree or local Facebook selling page and see if anyone wants them.
Well, now you ask, the answer is: might be! If you have a video of something that has never been released on DVD you might still be able to sell it.
This is more likely if you have videos on a niche interest, but you may even have a film that’s not widely available. Check online to see if it’s available on DVD and it might confirm if your video will likely to be in demand.
And just as vinyl records have made a comeback, there are some video (and music) cassette devotees holding on to theirs in the hope that one day their time will come!
