HP Planet Partners 2026: Free Printer, Ink & Cartridge Recycling
Last updated: 15 May 2026
HP Planet Partners is HP's free closed-loop recycling program for HP-branded electronics and original HP ink and toner cartridges. The program covers 73 countries, provides prepaid shipping labels, and operates partner drop-off bins at Staples and Office Depot.
Reviewed by the eCycling Central editorial team — last updated May 2026
Items Accepted by HP Planet Partners Mail-Back Recycling
HP Planet Partners accepts: original HP ink cartridges, HP toner cartridges, HP printers (any model), HP laptops and desktops, HP monitors, and HP-branded supplies. Third-party or refilled cartridges are not accepted because they cannot be processed through HP's closed-loop manufacturing.
Where to Drop Off or Mail Items
Three options: prepaid mail-back label from hp.com/planetpartners, drop-off bins at Staples (1,000+ US stores), or Office Depot drop bins (1,300+ US stores). For large items, HP arranges free pickup with new HP purchase.
How the HP Planet Partners Mail-Back Recycling Process Works
- Print the free shipping label at hp.com/planetpartners (US only) or use the in-store drop bins. 2. Pack ink cartridges in their original or any leak-proof box. 3. For larger items (printers, laptops), HP coordinates pickup or uses a Bulk Returns Program for businesses.
Wipe Data Before Recycling
For HP laptops: Sign out of all accounts, then Settings → System → Recovery → Reset this PC → Remove everything → Clean data ON. For business laptops with sensitive data, use HP's optional certified data destruction add-on (request through Bulk Returns).
Related Recyclers
- Best Buy Electronics Recycling
- Staples Electronics Recycling
- Apple Trade In and Recycling
- Browse all recyclers
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HP Planet Partners completely free?
Yes. HP Planet Partners is free for consumers and small businesses, including the prepaid shipping label, recycling fee and processing. Bulk pickup for offices is also free with quantities of 50+ items.
Does HP recycle non-HP cartridges?
No. HP Planet Partners only accepts original HP-branded ink and toner cartridges. The recycled material is fed back into new HP supplies (closed-loop), so non-HP or refilled cartridges cannot be processed. Use Staples free drop-off for non-HP cartridges instead.
How do I recycle an HP printer?
For inkjet printers: print the free shipping label at hp.com/planetpartners and ship via UPS. For larger printers (laser, MFP): HP arranges free pickup with the purchase of a replacement, or use the Bulk Returns program for offices.