How to dispose of light bulbs

Can you recycle light bulbs?

Yes, most modern light bulbs can be recycled, but the method of recycling depends on the type of bulb. Each kind of light bulb requires a different approach which we’ll break down further in this guide.

Although light bulbs contain glass, they aren’t like your regular glass jars and bottles that we can easily recycle in the usual way. They contain electrical components and sometimes chemicals which means they need special care.

This is why light bulbs should be recycled through Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) recycling programs. Doing so ensures they’re dealt with safely and responsibly.

What light bulbs can be recycled?

Many common types of light bulbs can be recycled, especially those containing valuable materials that can be reused.

LED bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and fluorescent tubes are all recyclable because they include components like glass, metal, and electronics that can be recovered and reused.

CFLs and fluorescent tubes contain small amounts of mercury that need to be carefully handled but can still be processed for recycling.

What light bulbs can’t be recycled?

Unfortunately, incandescent lamps and halogen bulbs can’t be recycled because the wires inside them are very fine and difficult to separate. Instead, these must be wrapped up and disposed of in your regular household waste.

Can you recycle broken light bulbs?

If the glass in the bulb is cracked it can still be disposed of or recycled as it normally would be.

Why should light bulbs be recycled?

How to dispose of different types of light bulbs

How to dispose of incandescent bulbs

As we’ve already mentioned, this type of light bulb can’t be recycled. However, it’s still important that they’re disposed of correctly.

This type of bulb should be thrown away safely in your normal household waste. They should be thrown away and wrapped in something like newspaper, fabric or their original packaging so they don’t shatter and get mixed up with the rest of the waste.

How to dispose of halogen bulbs

Halogen light bulbs can’t be recycled. Nevertheless, similar to incandescent bulbs, it’s still important to ensure they are disposed of correctly.

You should safely throw halogen light bulbs away in your normal household waste bins. They should be thrown away and wrapped in something like newspaper, fabric or their original packaging so they don’t shatter and get mixed up with the rest of your waste.

How to dispose of LED light bulbs

LED bulbs can be disposed of in recycling centres in the correct designated areas. They can be disposed of safely in your household waste too.

There are also many other designated recycling points for light bulbs dotted around the country. You can find your closest one through Recycle Now.

How to dispose of fluorescent tubes

Fluorescent tube bulbs can be disposed of in recycling centres in the correct designated areas.

There are also many other designated recycling points for light bulbs dotted around the country, which you can find through Recycle Now.

How to dispose of compact fluorescent lamps (CFL)

Compact fluorescent lamps can be disposed of in recycling centres in the correct designated areas.

There are also many other designated recycling points for light bulbs dotted around the country. Again, you can find your closest one through Recycle Now.

Light bulb disposal: Our summary

Keep your light bulbs shining safely with HomeServe

At HomeServe, we’re here to ensure your home stays safe and well-lit, no matter what type of electrical or lighting issue you face.

For any electrical repairs or services, big or small, we’ve got you covered. Explore our electrical cover options to see how we can help keep your home running smoothly.