Does Staples Buy Old Ink Cartridges? Here’s How the Recycling Rewards Work

Does Staples Buy Old Ink Cartridges? Here’s How the Recycling Rewards Work

If you’ve ever wondered, “Does Staples buy old ink cartridges?”—you’re not alone. Many people have drawers full of empty printer ink and want to know if they’re worth anything before tossing them. While Staples doesn’t hand over cash for old cartridges, they do offer Rewards credit when you recycle eligible ink and toner. Here’s exactly how the Staples ink recycling program works and what you should know before bringing your cartridges in.

The short answer is no—Staples does not pay cash for old ink cartridges.
However, there is a way to turn those empty cartridges into savings through Staples’ recycling and rewards program. Here’s how it works, what to expect, and whether it’s worth your time.

Staples Ink Cartridge Recycling: The Basics

Staples offers a free ink and toner recycling program that accepts many brands of empty cartridges, not just ones purchased at Staples. Recycling is available in-store and, in some cases, through mail-in options. This alone is a win for reducing waste, since printer cartridges are not easy to recycle curbside.

But recycling by itself doesn’t automatically earn you anything back. The rewards come into play if you’re enrolled in the Staples Rewards program.

How You Earn Rewards for Recycling Ink

Staples Rewards members can earn store credit for recycling eligible ink and toner cartridges. Instead of receiving cash, the value is added to your Staples Rewards account and can be used on future purchases.

Here’s what that typically looks like:

• You recycle eligible ink or toner cartridges
• Staples tracks your recycling under your Rewards account
• Rewards credits are issued after program requirements are met
• Credits can be redeemed on qualifying Staples purchases

The exact number of cartridges allowed and the reward value can change over time, which is why Staples positions this as a rewards benefit rather than a guaranteed payout. That flexibility is also what makes the program sustainable long-term.

Important Things to Know Before You Recycle

Before loading up a bag of cartridges and heading to the store, there are a few key details worth knowing:

1. You must be a Rewards member.
Staples Rewards is free to join, but you won’t earn recycling credit without an account.

2. Rewards are not cash.
You’ll receive store credit, not cash back or gift cards.

3. There are monthly limits.
Staples typically caps how many cartridges per account can earn rewards each month.

4. Purchase requirements may apply.
In some cases, Staples requires recent qualifying purchases for recycling credits to activate.

Because these terms can change, it’s always smart to check your Rewards dashboard before recycling if you’re counting on the credit.

Is Staples Ink Recycling Worth It?

For many people, yes—especially if you already shop at Staples for school supplies, office basics, or printing services. Recycling cartridges you’d otherwise throw away and turning them into store credit is an easy win.

It’s particularly useful for:

• Teachers and classrooms
• Small businesses and home offices
• Families with students who print regularly

Even if the rewards feel modest, they add up over time—and the environmental benefit is immediate.

What If You Don’t Want Rewards?

If you’re not interested in earning store credit, Staples will still recycle your cartridges for free. You can drop them off knowing they’ll be handled responsibly instead of ending up in a landfill. Sometimes the peace of mind is worth it on its own.

What If You Don’t Have Ink Cartridges to Recycle?

You can actually buy empty cartridges on eBay—often for a low cost—and use them to earn Staples Rewards. It’s a small upfront spend that can turn into a high-reward payoff. They sell the cartridges in bulk on eBay, if you don’t want to make the full investment. Go in with a friend or a family member.

Those rewards can be used to grab FREE products, which makes this an easy way to plan ahead for gifts. Let your rewards grow and save them for the holidays—teacher gifts, family gifts, or little surprises all add up fast. I love even saving for things I need around the house. Tote’s, food, drinks, paper products, like paper towels and toilet paper. They have so many great things, sometimes it is hard to pick!

I was just at Staples recently and noticed they’re even selling LEGO sets. Such a fun option for family gifts, and a great way to turn recycled ink into something meaningful.

♻️ Less waste
🎁 More gifts
💸 Smarter savings

Disclaimer: Staples Rewards terms, limits, and eligibility requirements may change. Rewards are not cash and require an active Staples Rewards account. Always check current program details before purchasing cartridges.

The Bottom Line

Staples doesn’t buy old ink cartridges for cash, but it does reward recycling through its Staples Rewards program. If you’re already a Rewards member—or don’t mind signing up—it’s a simple way to turn everyday waste into future savings while doing something good for the environment.

If you’ve got a drawer full of empty cartridges, recycling them at Staples is an easy place to start.

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