🗑️ LandfillDepends on the bulb — CFL/fluorescent are hazardous, never trash.
Light bulbs split by type. Incandescent and LED bulbs can go in the black trash cart (wrap them so they don't shatter). CFL and fluorescent tubes contain mercury — in California it's illegal to throw them in the trash; they go to household hazardous waste.
Not recyclable and not hazardous — wrap in paper or the old packaging so shards don't cut anyone, and put them in the black trash cart.
LED bulbs
No mercury, so trash is legal — but LEDs contain small electronic parts, so an e-waste drop-off is the better choice where available.
CFL (curly) & fluorescent tubes
These contain mercury and are hazardous waste — never the trash. Take them to an HHW site; many hardware stores (Home Depot, Lowe's) and IKEA accept CFLs for free. If one breaks, ventilate the room and clean up carefully (don't vacuum).
Light Bulbs — quick FAQ
Can you throw light bulbs in the trash?
Incandescent and LED bulbs, yes (wrap them first). CFL and fluorescent tubes contain mercury and are hazardous waste — never trash them in California.
How do you dispose of fluorescent light bulbs?
As household hazardous waste. Take them to an HHW site or a retailer that accepts them (many Home Depot, Lowe's, and IKEA stores do).
Are LED bulbs recyclable?
There's no curbside option; LEDs can legally go in the trash, but an e-waste drop-off is better since they contain small electronic components.
How do I clean up a broken CFL?
Open a window and leave the room 10 minutes, then scoop up the pieces with stiff paper (don't vacuum), seal in a bag/jar, and take it to HHW.
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