Before replacing something, consider whether it can be repaired, donated, or bought used. Reuse and repair keep usable products out of landfills, save money, and reduce the environmental cost of manufacturing new goods. StopWaste offers tools and programs to help Alameda County residents find repair services, attend fix-it events, and connect with local reuse options.

Explore Reuse & Repair Resources

A mobile phone showing the RE:Source app

RE:Source Guide

Your comprehensive online guide to reuse, repair, and recycling in Alameda County. Search by item to find drop-off locations, repair shops, donation centers, and more.
Two people fixing an electronic

Repair Events Calendar

Find upcoming repair workshops, fix-it clinics, and community repair events across Alameda County where you can get items fixed and learn hands-on repair skills.
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Reuse and Repair Network

A network of Bay Area businesses and nonprofits focused on reuse, repair, and redistribution — connecting members to share resources, form partnerships, and strengthen the repair economy.

Tips for Reusing and Repairing

  • Learn to fix things — Attend a repair workshop or fix-it clinic to learn hands-on repair skills for household items
  • Find a repair professional — Many items like furniture, appliances, and electronics can be professionally repaired rather than replaced
  • Borrow and share — Check your local library or hardware store for tool lending opportunities, or find tool libraries in your area
  • Donate, don't discard — Give usable items a second life by donating to local charities or sharing through neighborhood networks — check RE:Source for donation locations
  • Buy used first — Check Craigslist, Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace, and Freecycle for quality used goods in your neighborhood
  • Support secondhand shops — Shop locally at consignment and thrift stores
  • Choose quality — Invest in durable products that last longer to reduce your environmental footprint
  • Use online repair guides — Sites like iFixit offer free step-by-step instructions for DIY fixes

For more ways to reduce your environmental impact at home — including composting, green purchasing, and responsible disposal — see What You Can Do.