Do Not Throw Away! 5 Items That Should Never Be in the Bin

Americans generate more than 260 million tons of solid waste per year. That’s almost 5 pounds of trash per person per day!

Trash isn’t the most pleasant topic but it’s an important one. It’s especially important when disposing of items to know what’s on the “do not throw away” list.

Certain things should never go in with the household garbage. What can you do? Read on for information about proper disposal procedures for items you shouldn’t toss in the trash bin.

1. Batteries

Batteries seem harmless given their small size. But they’re full of dangerous materials like mercury and lead.

Old batteries wreak environmental havoc when they end up in landfills or incinerators.

This goes for car batteries too since they also contain lead and acid. If you’re wondering where to take your batteries for recycling, find out on earth911.com.

2. Chemicals

You might think you don’t have a lot of chemicals in your home. But chances are, you do.

From pesticides to household cleaners, most homes have lots of unsafe chemicals. Old paint is another chemical that shouldn’t go in the trash.

If you’re opting for safe cleaning supplies, don’t throw your old cleaners in the trash. Look for a drop-off facility near you.

3. Tires

Did you know old tires cause punctured liners in landfills? It’s the steel belt inside the tire that’s the culprit. Once the liner is punctured, ground contamination results.

Old tires sometimes cause fires resulting in harmful smoke. If you need to get rid of some tires, ask the nearest tire shop.

4. Electronics

Modern electronics are full of environmental hazards. Never throw these items in the regular trash bin:

• Computers
• Televisions
• Cellphones
• Smoke detectors

Electronics contain lead, mercury, beryllium, and other toxic waste products. Call your local government for information on electronic waste disposal.

5. Other Hazardous Materials

There are many other hazardous materials that don’t belong in your household trash bin. Never throw away:

• Old-style glass thermometers (mercury)
• Unused medications
• Fluorescent light bulbs
• Lawn chemicals
• Mothballs
• Asbestos
• Gasoline
• Medical waste and needles

Never use your toilet as a trash receptacle! Don’t flush old medications, mothballs, or other small objects into the sewer system.

There are other responsible alternatives when it comes to waste removal. If you’re unsure whether something can go in the trash bin, call a waste removal company like the one here.

It’s better to be overly cautious when it comes to what goes into landfills and incinerators.

If It’s on the “Do Not Throw Away” List, Don’t Do It!

Be aware of the environmental hazards lurking within your household garbage. If it’s on the “do not throw away” list, don’t put it in the trash bin!

Batteries, chemicals, tires, electronics, and other hazardous materials need special handling when it comes to disposal.

Call your local government or waste removal company if you have any questions. They’ll point you in the right direction.

Keep reading the blog for answers to more of life’s pressing questions.