Broken Light Bulbs Hazardous Waste Curbside Trash Depending on the type lightbulb, broken lightbulbs can go in the trash OR be considered Household Hazardous Waste (HHW). See below for details… FOR INCANDESCENT/HALOGEN LIGHT BULBS – OK IN THE TRASH: Don’t Mix with Glass Recyclables The materials used to make incandescent bulbs are non-toxic, so it’s OK to throw these bulbs in the trash. Although they are made of glass, don’t recycle them with glass. Wrap Before DisposingThese types of light bulbs are fragile and can break in the trash. Try wrapping them in newspaper and taping everything in place before disposing of the bulb. Broken glass can injure sanitation workers. FOR LED/FLOURESCENT LIGHT BULBS – THESE ARE CONSIDERED HHW: Place them in a container, seal, and label. Bring to the local HHW facility to dispose of. Fluorescent Bulbs Are Hazardous Waste Never throw fluorescent bulbs in the trash because they contain mercury. Before cleaning up this type of broken bulb, air out the room for 15 minutes. Next, scoop pieces into a container and store it outside until you can dispose of it as Household Hazardous Waste. Extra Precautions for Halogen Bulbs Broken halogen bulbs can be thrown in the trash, but air out the room for 15 minutes before cleaning up. Dispose of them like other broken glass, in a sealed and labeled container, or taped up with newspaper.
