12 Items You Should Always Keep Out of the Trash
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Have you ever paused before throwing something out and wondered if it truly belongs in the trash? You’re not alone. Many everyday items we casually toss can have significant environmental and health impacts. Here are twelve items that should never be in the trash, enabling you to make more eco-friendly decisions.
Batteries
Batteries contain harmful chemicals like lead, cadmium, and mercury. These substances can leak into the ground, contaminating soil and water sources. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 3 billion batteries are thrown away yearly in the U.S. alone.
You can take your used batteries to designated recycling centers. Many electronics stores and community centers offer battery recycling programs. Consider rechargeable batteries as a more sustainable option.
Electronics
Electronics, or e-waste, contain valuable materials like gold and copper but also harmful chemicals. The Global E-waste Monitor reports that 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste were generated in 2019, with only 17.4% being recycled. Donate working electronics to charities or sell them online.
For broken items, find a local e-waste recycling program. Companies like Best Buy and Staples offer e-waste recycling services. Before disposing of electronics, ensure all personal data is wiped clean. This prevents data breaches and identity theft.
Light Bulbs
Both fluorescent and LED bulbs contain materials that shouldn’t end up in landfills. Fluorescent bulbs have mercury, while LEDs contain small amounts of heavy metals.
Many hardware stores and recycling centers accept used light bulbs for proper disposal. Recycling them helps prevent toxic substances from entering the waste stream.
Paint
Leftover paint can be a challenge to dispose of, and simply throwing it away isn’t a good option. Many types of paint contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate soil and water. Instead, look for paint recycling programs in your area.
Some communities have special collection days for household hazardous waste, including paint. You can also donate usable paint to local organizations or community groups.
Medications
Flushing old medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash can pose serious health and environmental risks. Pharmaceuticals have the potential to pollute water sources and endanger marine ecosystems.
Instead, take advantage of drug take-back programs or drop-off locations at pharmacies. These programs ensure medications are disposed of safely and securely.
Plastics
Not all plastics are created equal, and many types can’t be recycled through curbside programs. Single-use plastics, plastic bags, and styrofoam often require special recycling processes.
Check with your local recycling facility to see which plastics they accept. Many grocery stores also have drop-off bins for plastic bags and other flexible plastics.
Glass
While most glass containers can be recycled, broken glass, light bulbs, and certain types of glassware often can’t. Properly dispose of broken glass securely by wrapping it and checking local disposal guidelines.
Many recycling programs accept glass bottles and jars, but specialty glass items may require different handling.
Textiles
Clothing, shoes, and other textiles don’t belong in the trash. Many items can be donated, repurposed, or recycled. Look for textile recycling programs or donation bins in your community.
Some retailers also offer discounts or incentives for recycling old clothing. By keeping textiles out of the landfill, you reduce waste and support sustainable fashion practices.
Appliances
Old appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, and washing machines contain valuable materials and hazardous components. Many retailers offer take-back programs when you purchase a new appliance.
Alternatively, check with local recycling facilities or scrap metal dealers. Proper disposal ensures that harmful substances are handled safely and valuable materials are recovered.
Tires
Tires are bulky and take a long time to break down in landfills. They can also leach harmful chemicals into the environment. Many tire retailers offer recycling services when you purchase new tires.
Additionally, local recycling centers often accept old tires. By recycling tires, you help reduce waste and support producing new rubber products.
Household Cleaners
Numerous household cleaning products harbor chemicals that harm human health and the environment. It is important not to dispose of them by pouring them down the drain or tossing them in the trash.
Instead, seek out hazardous waste collection events or facilities within the community. Proper disposal is vital to prevent these harmful chemicals from contaminating water supplies or endangering wildlife.
Cooking Oil
Pouring cooking oil down the drain can result in pipe blockages and harm wildlife. The EPA states that fats, oils, and grease cause up to 47% of sewer overflows in the U.S. After allowing cooking oil to cool and solidify, transfer it into a container for disposal in the trash.
Alternatively, some recycling centers accept used cooking oil for biofuel production. Consider composting small amounts of used cooking oil. It can be a valuable addition to your compost pile.
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