We all know the drill: light bulbs burn out, and suddenly you're staring at a little glass bulb that has no more light to give. But what do you do with it now? Can you toss it in the trash? Do you need to find a special place to dispose of it? If you're thinking, "I just want to get rid of this old bulb without causing a scene," you're in the right place! Here's your guide to disposing of any type of light bulb in the most responsible—and maybe even fun—way possible.
How to dispose of light bulbs responsibly
Not all light bulbs are created equal, and their disposal needs vary based on type. Some bulbs, like incandescent, are easy to toss, while others—like fluorescent or LED bulbs—contain materials that need a little extra TLC when it comes to disposal. Let's break it down so you can be a shining example of responsible disposal.
How to dispose of incandescent light bulbs
These are the classic, old-school light bulbs that have been lighting up our homes forever. The good news? You can simply toss them in the trash. They don’t contain any dangerous materials like mercury, so there’s no need for any special recycling efforts here. Just make sure the bulb is safely wrapped or contained (because no one wants to step on a broken bulb—ouch!).
How to dispose of halogen bulbs
Halogen bulbs are like incandescent bulbs’ cooler, more energy-efficient cousins. They’re also generally safe to toss in the trash. However, if you’re feeling extra responsible, check with your local recycling center to see if they accept them for recycling. Some do, but it’s totally okay if they don’t. Just be sure they’re wrapped up tight to avoid any accidents.
How to dispose of LED bulbs
Now, LED bulbs might seem like the future of lighting, but they still need some special attention when it comes to disposal. While it’s not illegal to toss them in the trash, it’s not ideal. LED bulbs contain small amounts of heavy metals, like lead, so recycling is the better option. You’re not just being eco-friendly—you’re being a superhero for the planet.
How to dispose of CFL and HID bulbs, fluorescent tubes, and neon lights
Ah, the infamous CFL (compact fluorescent light) and fluorescent tubes. These guys are a bit trickier because they contain mercury, which is hazardous. Never throw these guys in the trash—they can’t just go out with the rest of your garbage! In fact, improper disposal is illegal in many places. So, make sure to take them to a recycling center or a designated hazardous waste facility. It’s the right thing to do, and it ensures the environment isn’t exposed to any toxic substances. Plus, it’ll give you a warm glow knowing you did your part!
Where to recycle old light bulbs
Now that you know how to dispose of your light bulbs properly, let’s talk about where to take them. You’ve got a few options, so don’t worry—there’s no need to stress about where to go. It’s easier than you think!
Local recycling centers
Many local recycling centers accept a variety of bulbs, including LED, halogen, and fluorescent tubes. You can either call ahead or check online to find out which types they’ll take. If you're not sure where to look, a quick search for "recycling center near me" should point you in the right direction. Make sure to ask if they accept all kinds of light bulbs before you go, just in case.
Retailer take-back programs
Some retailers, like Home Depot and IKEA, have recycling programs where you can drop off your old bulbs while you’re picking up new ones. It’s like a buy-one-get-one deal for the planet! So, next time you’re out shopping for light bulbs, check if your store has a take-back program and avoid that trash can altogether.
Junk removal services
If you're too busy to run all over town to recycle your bulbs or just don't want to deal with the hassle, junk removal services like 1-800-GOT-JUNK? can save the day! We’ll come to you, pick up your old light bulbs (and anything else you need to get rid of), and make sure they’re disposed of in an eco-friendly manner–how’s that for a bright idea? Learn more about our junk removal services.
Preparing old light bulbs for disposal
Before you send your old bulbs off into the recycling world, it’s important to take a few precautions. After all, we don’t want anyone getting hurt or having to clean up a mess. If your light bulb is broken, be extra careful—especially if it's a CFL or fluorescent tube. Those contain mercury, which can be hazardous. Wrap the bulb in something sturdy, like a box or old newspaper, to avoid any accidents.
And if you’re dealing with a broken CFL or fluorescent bulb, check out our guide on cleaning up broken bulbs to learn how to handle it safely.
We take all kinds of junk
We don’t just take light bulbs—we’ll help you get rid of almost anything! Whether it’s furniture, electronics, or just a pile of clutter, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? is here to help. We offer junk removal services across the United States, Canada, and Australia, so no matter where you are, we’re ready to lend a hand. We make junk disappear—all you have to do is point.
Wondering how much it’ll cost to have us come haul away your junk? Learn more about our pricing.
