How To Recycle Light Bulbs

There are different policies per state when it comes to the disposing of light bulbs. Most folks would either bring their light bulbs to recycling plants or just stash them away in some convenient and easily forgotten part of the house. Keeping used light bulbs can have some dangerous repercussions if they should get broken, so make sure to stash them properly until you can get them to a recycling center. Here are a few things you can do.

1. Categorize. First and foremost, you have to categorize the different types of light bulbs you may have lying around the house. Compact fluorescent light bulbs should be set aside apart from incandescent light bulbs and LED bulbs. When the Universal Waste Haulers come, this makes it easier to place them into proper storage and transport containers to be brought to the recycling places. Of course, your categorizing can also involve already-broken light bulbs, which is common for outdoor light fixtures.
2. Do not crush them. Fluorescent light bulbs have enough mercury in them to contaminate the soil. This can have serious effects on the plants, animals and people in the surrounding area. Mercury cannot be broken down in the body, and it can cause health problems if you've been expose. You can browse through this link regarding Universal Waste rules to see the frequently asked questions for fluorescent bulbs. 
3. Look for recycling plants. There are different types of recycling plants for different types of waste material. There should be at least one type of recycling plant for light bulbs in your area, or some shop that will take those burned-out bulbs to that center in your state. The EPA has a map on their website which shows the locations of different recycling centers which accept light bulbs containing mercury. 
4. Be creative. There are art projects which light bulbs as their focal points by using paint or by attaching them onto some decoration in the house. If you choose this option, you must be aware of the proper handling of the type of bulb you are using to prevent health risks to those who live with you or people in the neighborhood. Light Bulb Emporium has recycling kits for sale at their site, along with other products in case you still haven’t replaced your incandescent light bulbs. 

Light bulb disposal is no easy task because you have to make sure of your safety and that of others. Throughout the history of light bulbs, from the discovery of electricity to the compact fluorescent bulbs we have today, there had been a lot of changes; with these changes come different chemicals and different life spans. There have also been transformations with different shapes and sizes that you can experiment with in your light bulb projects. With all of these options, you have to remember to follow the instructions of the Universal Waste Rules or those on your recycling kit. Remember to always stay safe.