You just put in a new light, but what do you do with the old one?If it's illegal to throw away fluorescent bulbs in your area, check with your local garbage or recycling center.Don't put non-recyclable bulbs in a paper bag or cardboard if you can recycle them.If you don't know what type of light you have, look at the information on the base above the threading of the bulb.
Step 1: You should check your local laws.
Many places have laws against disposing of mercury-laden bulbs in the trash.If it's okay to dispose of fluorescents in the trash, you should check with your local garbage and recycling center.California, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Washington all prohibit throwing away fluorescents.If your country, state, or province does not have laws against disposing of fluorescent lights, your regional or town authorities can.You should always check with your local center to get the most accurate laws.
Step 2: If it's legal, throw away fluorescents.
If it's legal to throw away fluorescent lights in your area, you can put them in the trash.They should be wrapped in their original packaging or a paper bag before being thrown away.
Step 3: If your area has proper facilities, you can recycle fluorescent lights.
The lights can be recycled.Check with your local waste authority to see if you have a nearby drop-off location for these types of lights.You should check with the store where you bought the bulbs.Home Depot and IKEA offer recycling for lights you bought there.Check with your local waste authority or website to see if they offer curbside pickup in your area.
Step 4: Break the bulbs in a container.
Shut off the forced air or heat system in the room for ten minutes if you break a fluorescent tube while changing it.Don't let people or pets in the room for that time.Scoop up as much of the broken bulb and powder as possible using cardboard or stiff paper after you clean up the bulb.Duct tape can be used to clean up any additional remains.Don't vacuum until the powder has been cleaned up.You can dispose of the powder and glass through your local channels if you Seal it in a sealable container.
Step 5: Throw away old bulbs.
Since they don't contain toxic materials, it's fine to throw them in the trash.Many people suggest putting the thin bulb back in its original packaging to keep it from shattering.The bulb can be wrapped in an old plastic or paper grocery bag if you don't have the original packaging.
Step 6: If you don't want to throw the bulbs away, you can reuse them.
If your bulb isn't cracked or exploded, you can reuse it in crafts or household projects.lightbulb vases, terrariums, and even seasonal ornaments are some of the projects that can be found online.Lightbulb crafts usually require a screwdriver and needle nose pliers.In case of shattering glass, protective gloves are recommended.
Step 7: The bulbs should be thrown in the trash.
halogen bulbs don't contain toxic materials so they can be thrown in the trash.You can put the light back in the original packaging if you have it.If you don't want to cover them, you can throw them away.
Step 8: Throw away the bulbs.
The bulbs are energy efficient.They don't contain mercury, so they can be thrown in the trash.If you have the option to recycle, it is often preferable.
Step 9: It's a good idea to recycle.
There are many places where you can recycle led bulbs.Most countries don't have a program for recycling LEDs, but many local centers are willing to take them.Call your local recycling center to find out if they have a program.
Step 10: Christmas lights can be recycled through the mail.
Holiday lights are easy to recycle.You can send bulbs for free through the mail in many areas.If there is a holiday bulb recycling option in your area, look online.If you're looking for holiday light recycling in your area, HolidayLEDs.com is a good place to start.