December is just around the corner and many of us will be giving or receiving electronic gifts. What do we do with the old electronics that are being replaced? If you don't know what to do, they often end up in the garbage or in storage. Throwing away electronics puts toxic metals in our soil and water, while holding on to them creates clutter.

Here are some guidelines for how to dispose of electronics and the batteries we use to run them:

Go to www.Earth911.com. Type in the item you want to dispose of and your zip code. You'll get a list of places that will take your old electronics and batteries for recycling or reuse. Be sure to remove all files and personal information from computers and cell phones. Recycling centers and stores such as Staples, Best Buy and Office Depot are often on these lists. Locations and contact information are included. Call before you go to confirm drop-off details.

If you need more help, visit New York State's Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) website to get a statewide list of recycling coordinators. That address is www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/8511.html. You should be able to get your questions answered by a recycling expert.

Carbon zinc and alkaline non-rechargeable batteries, and alkaline rechargeable batteries can safely be put in with household garbage. All other types must be recycled in order to avoid environmental contamination.

Sometimes there is a fee for taking the item. So why go through the expense, time and effort to reuse or recycle electronics? When we throw them in the trash, they go to landfills where heavy metals leach into the soil and water. These include lead, cadmium, lithium, mercury and silver. Somewhere someone's water supply will be contaminated.

When purchasing new electronics, it's also a good idea to buy those with environmentally-friendly attributes. Look for electronics that:

• Contain fewer toxic materials.
• Use recycled materials in the new product.
• Are energy efficient (showing the Energy Star label).
• Are designed for easy upgrading or disassembly.
• Use minimal packaging.

So, enjoy those new electronics and make sure the old ones get out of your home or office properly. You'll have less clutter and a cleaner environment.