Store unused cables by wrapping them with reusable Velcro cable ties and placing them in labeled Ziploc bags, shoeboxes, or repurposed toilet paper tubes. Sort them by specific type (e.g., HDMI, USB-C, Ethernet) so you can find exactly what you need without rummaging.
If cables are in good condition, they can be donated for reuse or sold. If the item is not reusable, you can recycle it. Anything with a plug, battery or cable can be recycled. Find a recycling point near you (opens in a new window).
If the exposed wires come into contact with each other, they will spark. This, in turn, could ignite a fire. The exposed cables can also come into contact with water, posing a serious risk of electric shock to any person or animal who unknowingly touches the water that has been electrified by the exposed cables.
Electricians keep one hand in their pocket—a practice known as the "One-Hand Rule"—to prevent electric current from traveling across their chest and through their heart.
Power strips split your wall outlet’s available power but do not increase its total capacity. As a general rule of thumb, you should never plug high-wattage appliances or heat-generating devices into a power strip. Doing so risks electrical overloads, tripped breakers, and severe fire hazards.
Cable management ideas
Sort your extra cables by type (e.g., USB-C, HDMI, audio) and test them. Keep only the ones you actively use or that match a current device. Discard or recycle broken cords. Donate working cables to thrift stores, or drop off e-waste at local collection centers.
Yes, you can leave disconnected wires in a wall, but you must make sure they are 100% disconnected at the source (like the breaker panel or an active switch) and properly terminated to prevent electrical hazards.
In store only. Customer upon recycling of a power cable or charger will receive a 20% off recycle coupon toward the purchase of select power cables and chargers. Only 1 coupon per purchase and can only be used once. Limit 3 coupons per household.
Duct tape should NEVER be used in place of electrical tape – it does not insulate and will not protect against live current.
How to dispose of cables. Cables, wiring and cabling from appliances is classed as waste electrical and electronic equipment. It should never be presented as recycling or put in the general waste. Most manufacturers of appliances also take these back for recycling free of charge.
Coaxial cable works by carrying electrical signals between devices. The central conductor carries the signal, while the outer metal shield protects it from external interference. The insulating layers provide insulation and maintain the integrity of the signal.
Common E-Waste Items You Should Never Throw Away
Hiding cables comes down to three main approaches: concealing them behind drywall, covering them on the surface, or masking them with clever decor. The fastest, most renter-friendly method is using adhesive cord covers that stick to the wall and can be painted to match your decor.
If you cannot find or access the line side (aka it will always be hot) cut any exposed copper off, cap it off with a wire nut, and label it as "spare - [what breaker controls it's power or the switch its attached to]".
Yes, a house can be entirely rewired without removing or tearing down drywall. Electricians use minimally invasive "fishing" techniques to route cables behind walls, utilizing existing fixtures, attics, and crawl spaces, or by making only a few small, easily patchable holes.
Hiding a bunch of cords comes down to three main strategies: bundling them together, containing the bulky power strips, and running the wires flush against surfaces. Start by organizing the cables using zip ties or velcro straps, then tuck the power strip into a Cable Management Box to hide the clutter.
The "best" cable organizer depends entirely on your specific needs, but the Anker Cable Management Clips Best Buy are widely considered the best for desk setups, while the Yamazaki Home Cable Management Box Best Buy is the top pick for hiding power strips on the floor or behind TV units.
Retailers will take back old cables and leads
And many stores will take your old tech even if you're not buying. This includes all the accessories including plugs, batteries – and yes, cables.
If a storm is approaching, unplug these items to avoid expensive damage or safety risks:
Never plug high-wattage appliances or devices with motors and heating elements into a power strip. These include refrigerators, microwaves, space heaters, air conditioners, toasters, and hair dryers. They draw massive amounts of power that can easily overload the strip, melt wiring, and start a fire.
Yes, you can absolutely plug a TV into a power strip. However, for a high-value item like a TV, you should always use a power strip that features built-in surge protection.