10 Common Items You Should Never Throw in the Trash

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We all throw things away, but some items should never go in the trash. These things can harm the environment, damage your home, or even hurt people. They may also cause fires or leak dangerous materials.

Here are 10 common items you should avoid tossing in your regular trash, and what you can do instead.

1. Electronics

Old phones, TVs, laptops, and chargers contain harmful materials like lead and mercury. These can leak into soil and water when they end up in a landfill.

What you can do: Take them to an electronics recycling center. Many stores also accept old electronics for recycling.

2. Batteries

From small batteries to car batteries, these can leak acid or even explode if thrown in the trash. Battery acid is dangerous to people and pets.

What you can do: Drop them off at a battery recycling point or your local hazardous waste center.

3. Paint and Paint Cans

Paint often contains harmful chemicals. Even dried-out cans may have leftover paint inside that should not go into the trash.

What you can do: Let leftover paint dry or take it to a paint recycling location in your area.

4. Light Bulbs

Some light bulbs, like CFL bulbs, have mercury inside. If they break, they can release harmful gases.

What you can do: Many hardware stores have a place to drop off old bulbs for safe disposal.

5. Cleaning Products

Cleaning supplies may contain strong chemicals. Mixing them in the trash could cause a fire or harmful gas.

What you can do: Use them up completely or take the leftover liquids to a chemical waste center.

6. Old Medications

Tossing or flushing medicine can pollute water or cause harm if someone finds and uses it.

What you can do: Return expired or unused medicine to a pharmacy that offers a take-back program.

7. Motor Oil and Antifreeze

These car fluids are very toxic. A small amount can pollute a large amount of water or soil.

What you can do: Take used oil and antifreeze to a car service center or recycling location.

8. Tires

Tires take up space and do not break down easily. They can also catch fire if stored the wrong way.

What you can do: Many tire shops accept old tires for recycling. Some cities also offer tire collection events.

9. Appliances

Microwaves, fridges, and other large appliances contain metal, wires, and sometimes gases that are dangerous when broken.

What you can do: Contact a junk removal service or see if local centers accept large items. You can also donate working appliances.

10. Mattresses

Mattresses are bulky and hard to break down. They often sit in landfills for years and can carry mold or pests.

What you can do: Take them to a recycling program or have a junk removal company pick them up.

Conclusion

Knowing what not to throw away is just as important as knowing how to get rid of it. Some items are too risky for the trash and need special care. If you have a lot of clutter or don't know where to take certain items, a junk removal service can help.

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