Whether it's for healing, navigating tough terrain, or dealing with BTs or rogue couriers, gear keeps Sam moving forward.

However, once an item has served its purpose, it doesn't always disappear. Sometimes you're left with its "used" version, taking up space in your inventory and tempting you to simply discard it. But before you do, it's important to understand that these remnants can still be useful. Let's dive into what to do with used items in Death Stranding 2.

Recycling — Always the Best Choice

If you're near a base, don't rush to throw things away. Instead, take your used items to a terminal and open the Private Locker Management menu. There, you'll see a list of everything in your inventory and on your suit, with used items clearly marked with a red tag "[Used]".

Select the item, then press Recycle. The terminal will show what materials it will break down into. These resources are essential for crafting gear, constructing structures, or restocking before your next journey. Depending on the item, you might get Chiral Crystals, resin, ceramics, metals, chemicals, special alloys, and more.

One important note: the material storage has limits. If you've already maxed out a resource, recycling won't yield anything. In such cases, it's wiser to store the item in the locker until you've used up some supplies. This way, you won't miss out on potential recycling benefits.

When to Discard Used Items in Death Stranding 2

In the field, free inventory space can be more valuable than anything. If you're far from a base, in the middle of a delivery, or traversing a challenging route and risk overloading yourself, discarding used items is a practical and wise decision.

Lighter loads help Sam maintain better balance, expend less stamina, and reduce wear on footwear. So while recycling is a desirable process, excess weight can be more dangerous.

If there's no base nearby and you need to carry more important cargo, feel free to lighten your backpack and leave used items behind. Prioritize your mission over materials—you'll have the chance to gather them again.

Used Items as a Resource Management Mechanic in Death Stranding 2

In Death Stranding 2, used items add another layer of resource management. They force you to think carefully about when to recycle, when to store, and when to simply let go.

Like everything in the game, they fit into a larger cycle of efficiency, preparation, and choice. The more attention you pay to your gear—even what has already served its purpose—the better prepared you'll be for what's ahead.

Ultimately, the best thing you can do with used items is not to ignore them. Act based on your circumstances and needs. Have plenty of resources or far from a base—discard them. Need resources and close to a base—store and recycle.