Tough Stuff To Trash

It can be difficult to know just what to do with dead batteries, cans of leftover paint, broken electronics, etc.. We all know that we shouldn’t throw them in the trash, but they don’t go in the recycle bin either. So how exactly do you get rid of them? Luckily, if you’re armed with the right info, it can be easier than you think to dispose of these things. It’s worth any extra effort because many of the items on this list contain toxic chemicals that can contaminate the environment or cause other damage if they are improperly disposed of. The laws for disposing of household waste vary depending on where you live, but here are some general guidelines and resources:

1. Batteries
Recycling rechargeable batteries is fairly easy. Which is a good thing because throwing out lead-acid batteries is illegal in 41 states. Home Depot, Staples, Radio Shack, Best Buy, and many other retailers take them back free of charge. There are fewer options for single-use batteries, but look for bins at your local library.
2. Electronics
Every retailer that takes back rechargeable batteries also accepts mobile phones, as do most wireless providers. For computers, cameras, televisions, and others it’s worthwhile do a little homework because some stores charge fees depending on item and brand. Check out Best Buy, Staples, and Office Depot to see which is the best for you. Some places, like Radio Shack, have trade-in programs where you can receive store credit for your old gadgets. You can also turn your old electronics into cash thanks to a growing number of websites designed to help you easily sell them.
3. Paint
If you plan to do more painting, sometimes you can use old paint as a primer. If not, try giving it to a friend. If that doesn’t work, you may be able to donate it to a charity, such as Habitat for Humanity or a school theater group. If you can’t find any other way, your best option may be to throw dried paint in the trash if it’s not against the law in your community (check both city & county ordinances). Remove the lid from a latex paint can and let it dry out until it’s completely hard. Take any oil-based paints directly to your household hazardous waste center.
4. CFLs
Fluorescent bulbs contain tiny amounts of mercury that can leach out if broken, so it’s important to properly recycle them. Luckily, these energy-sipping light bulbs are relatively easy to get rid of. Just drop old bulbs off at any Home Depot for free recycling. If your local Home Depot does not have recycle bins by the front door, ask someone at the service counter. If you must dispose of them yourself, then the Environmental Protection Agency suggests sealing CFLs in two plastic bags before disposing.
5. Medications
DO NOT flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain because tiny amounts of pharmaceuticals are making their way into our rivers, lakes, and ground water. Your best bet is to find a local pharmacy has a program where they take back unused medications for disposal. Also check with your local government to see if it’s hosting a collection event. Otherwise you’ll have to throw them in the trash. Remove all personal info before chucking bottles to avoid identity theft. Crush any pills, dissolve capsules in water. Mix in with kitty litter, coffee grounds, or other unappealing kitchen waste. Add salt, ashes, dirt, charcoal, or spices to make medicines unusable in case they accidentally get into the wrong hands. Use duct tape on any containers and place in a sealed bag before tossing in the trash so your kids or pets won’t get accidentally poisoned
6. Cooking oil
Bacon grease or cooking oil can clog up your pipes and ultimately back up sewer systems. Rinsing with hot water as you pour it down the drain won’t help. Once that grease cools down, it solidifies and sticks to pipes. Your best bet is to absorb small amounts of grease with shredded paper or kitty litter before throwing in the trash. Larger amounts should be poured into a coffee can or other metal container and throw it out once it solidifies.
7. Aerosol cans
Pressurized cans (empty or not) can explode if a fire breaks out. That’s why sending them to a landfill is not a good idea. Empty cans can be recycled fairly easily through your curbside program or at your local recycling facility.
8. Appliances
Most retailers will take away your old refrigerator, dishwasher, or other large appliance when you purchase a new one. Also check with your municipality because many cities and towns offer free curbside pick-up. For small appliances, try Best Buy or Goodwill.
9. Packing materials
If you don’t have room to store packing peanuts and bubble wrap for future use, bring them to a local mailing center such as the UPS Store or Mail Boxes Etc.. You can also give them away by listing on Craigslist.
10. Car stuff
Wal-Mart, Autozone, JiffyLube, and others recycle used motor oil. Ask if they’ll take your old filters back for recycling too. Return dead car batteries to the store where you are purchasing a new one; you’ll usually get a credit toward your new one.