Disposing of light bulbs correctly depends on the type, as some contain dangerous chemicals while others are non-recyclable and must be wrapped before being thrown away. Outdoor lighting specialists from LightingLegends.com have shared guidance on the safest way to handle different kinds of bulbs.
LED and Fluorescent Bulbs
LED bulbs, among the most common types used in electronics, displays and residential lighting, can and should be recycled, but not in home recycling bins. They need to be taken to a Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) recycling point.
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) and fluorescent tubes are classed as hazardous waste because they often contain small amounts of mercury. They must never go in household bins and should be taken to a recycling centre's hazardous waste section. UV bulbs, which can also contain mercury, should be handled the same way.
Halogen, Incandescent and Smart Bulbs
Halogen and incandescent bulbs are non-recyclable and should be carefully wrapped in paper or kitchen towels before being placed in the general bin. They need to be wrapped well enough to prevent them from shattering in the bin, which could make them more dangerous.
Smart bulbs are considered small electrical items and contain recyclable materials, so they can be taken to a local household waste recycling centre or a shop with a WEEE recycling point.
Jon Saeed, LightingLegends managing director, said: "Most people don’t realise there’s no one-size-fits-all rule for disposing of light bulbs, so it’s an easy mistake to make. Some can go to recycling centres, others must be treated as hazardous waste, and a few can even go in regular bins."
He added: "But different areas have their own rules on light bulb disposal, so make sure to check your local council’s advice before binning them. Getting it right is an easy way for households to reduce waste and their impact on the environment."
