⚠️ Fluorescent tubes & CFL bulbs: hazardous waste. Fluorescent and CFL bulbs contain a small amount of mercury and are hazardous waste in many states. Never put it in the regular trash — use a facility or take-back below.
Best ways to dispose of fluorescent tubes & CFL bulbs (best → last resort)
Retail take-backFree at many stores
Home Depot, Lowe's, and IKEA accept CFLs free; hardware stores often take tubes.
Hazardous-waste facilityFor long tubes / bulk
HHW sites accept fluorescent tubes and CFLs.
How to prepare it
Keep bulbs in their box or wrap them so they don't shatter.
If one breaks, ventilate the room, scoop up pieces with stiff paper (don't vacuum), and seal in a bag.
Don't
Never put fluorescent tubes or CFLs in the trash where it's banned — mercury is toxic.
Never vacuum a broken bulb.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.
What's the best way to dispose of fluorescent tubes & CFL bulbs?
Retail take-back (free at many stores): Home Depot, Lowe's, and IKEA accept CFLs free; hardware stores often take tubes.
Can you put fluorescent tubes & CFL bulbs in the trash?
No — this is hazardous and should not go in the regular trash. Never put fluorescent tubes or CFLs in the trash where it's banned — mercury is toxic.
Where can I recycle fluorescent tubes & CFL bulbs near me?
Search a drop-off with the Earth911 locator or "CFL fluorescent bulb recycling drop-off near me." Acceptance varies by city, so confirm with your local program.