Key Takeaways
Old CDs and DVDs take space; you don’t need a home archive.
Donate or sell discs via charity shops, resale sites, or collectors.
Upcycle, decorate, or create art projects instead of binning plastic-heavy media.
Digitise favourites to keep content while reducing physical clutter at home.
Store cherished collections in secure HOLD self storage with flexible terms.
In the age of streaming platforms and digital media, it’s easy to forget the once-iconic DVD and CD collections many of us still have at home. Whether it’s a shoebox of old CDs in the loft or crammed onto shelves, they often take up more space than they’re worth.
If you’re wondering what to do with all those discs, you’re in the right place. Your house doesn’t need to double as a personal archive. Let’s explore how you can give these items a second life while clearing up valuable space.
If you need a secure, affordable self storage solution, HOLD in Kings Cross offers free 24/7 access and a price match within 3 miles.
Why do we still have DVDs and CDs?
CDs were once how we consumed all our music and film. They felt special, collectable even. So it's no surprise that many of us have kept them, even though we no longer use them regularly. Maybe you're sentimental. Maybe you think they might be worth something one day.
Or maybe, like many, you simply haven't found the time to sort through them.
Let's move on to the top 10 things to do with old CDs and DVDs.
1. Donate to a charity
Many local charity shops gladly accept donations of old CDs and DVDs. If they’re in good condition, they can be sold on to raise funds for good causes. Just make sure to check whether your local shop currently accepts them; some may have limits on stock.
Check out our online box shop for affordable packing materials and cardboard boxes.
2. Sell them for money
Looking to make a bit of cash? Sites like Ziffit, Music Magpie and eBay allow you to sell your CDs and DVDs quickly. While most won’t pay much individually, box sets, limited editions, or rare items can fetch a decent price.
Collectors still buy certain formats, especially if they’re out of print or part of a series.
3. Get creative with upcycling
Scratched or unusable discs? Turn them into quirky clocks, coasters, jewellery, or reflective wall art. Pinterest is full of ideas on how to reuse CDs and DVDs in fun and artistic ways, helping you keep plastic waste out of landfills.
4. Recycle responsibly
If you’re not the crafty type, you can still do your bit. Most councils don’t accept CDs and DVDs in regular recycling bins, but some household waste recycling centres and specialist services do, so it’s worth checking what’s available in your area.
Try to avoid throwing discs in general waste, as they contain plastics that can take hundreds of years to break down.
5. Gift or swap with friends
You’d be surprised how many people still enjoy watching DVDs or listening to old CDs. Create a gift box of your best genres like horror, romcoms, classic rock, and offer them to friends. Or host a media swap night in your house to exchange collections.
6. Use them as decor
Old CDs can be great for reflective art pieces or even hung as ornaments. Some use them to make garden mobiles or wall installations. It’s a cool way to make something new out of something you no longer want.
7. Keep only the icons
You don’t have to get rid of everything. Hang on to your favourite films or iconic albums; the pieces that matter to you. A curated collection is far more enjoyable than rows of unused discs.
Box sets, limited runs, or autographed editions may even go up in price over time.
8. Digitise what you love
If you still love the content but not the clutter, back it up. There are easy tools to convert CDs and DVDs into digital files you can store on your computer or hard drive. That way, you keep the music and films without taking up physical space.
9. Make a home cinema box
Feeling nostalgic? Create a “movie night” box with popcorn, your favourite DVDs, and themed snacks. It’s a brilliant idea for families or retro nights with friends.
10. Store your collection with HOLD
Still not sure? If you want to keep your CDs and DVDs but need the space back at home, HOLD has you covered. With clean, secure self-storage units in London, we offer the perfect solution for safeguarding your collection without sacrificing your house space.
We offer flexible terms, various unit sizes, and top-notch security, so you can store what matters, stress-free.
Why you shouldn’t just throw them out
Tossing unwanted CDs and DVDs into the bin contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution. These items take hundreds of years to break down, and many are made with materials that could be reused or recycled instead.
The streaming revolution
Services like Netflix, Disney+ and Spotify have changed how we consume media. These streaming icons offer unlimited access, but also contribute to the decline of physical collections. Still, there’s a certain satisfaction in owning something tangible, especially for collectors and film lovers.
That's a wrap
Sorting through your old CDs and DVDs doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s a chance to free up space, rediscover forgotten favourites and give something back through donations or creative reuse. Whether you sell, recycle, upcycle or store your collection, there are plenty of responsible ways to deal with these once-essential discs.
Choose HOLD Self Storage. London’s smartest Self Storage
Our modern, secure storage facility in King's Cross is designed with convenience, flexibility, and affordability in mind.
With 24/7 monitored CCTV, flexible terms, and a friendly team ready to help, HOLD gives you the breathing room your house deserves. Need packing supplies? We’ve got those too, over at our Box Shop.
