Find safe disposal for light bulbs near you

Find a nearby place for light bulbs

Set your location to search close to home. The finder only shows places linked to this item.

How to dispose of light bulbs safely

Check the bulb type. LEDs and fluorescent bulbs use electrical or lamp recycling, while some sites treat old incandescent bulbs as general waste.

Possible recycling routes

Electrical recycling pointsHousehold hazardous waste servicesHousehold waste recycling centresRetailer take-back points

Handle light bulbs safely before disposal

• Let the bulb cool
• Remove it without forcing the fitting
• Use the original box or a protective container

What must stay out

Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.

• Never put bulbs in bottle banks
• Do not break fluorescent or compact fluorescent bulbs
• Accepted bulb types vary by site and retailer

Types of site to check

These site types can list light bulbs. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.

• Electrical recycling points

  Drop-off points for electrical items with a plug, battery or cable. Accepted item sizes vary by site.

• Household hazardous waste services

  Council sites and collection services for household materials that can harm people or the environment. You must check the local service before travel.

• Household waste recycling centres

  Council-run sites that accept many types of household recycling and waste. Local rules can cover booking, proof of address, vehicle permits and charges for some DIY waste.

• Retailer take-back points

  Shops and delivery services that take back selected products or packaging. Rules depend on the product, the retailer and whether you are buying a replacement.

Related item guides

• Fluorescent tubes

  Straight fluorescent lamps and compact fluorescent lamps from household use.

• Glass bottles and jars

  Empty food, drink, medicine and cosmetic bottles or jars made from container glass.

• Lamps and light fittings

  Household table lamps, ceiling fittings, outdoor lights and other powered lighting equipment.

Browse all item guides

Questions about safe light bulbs disposal

Where can I dispose of light bulbs safely?

Enter your postcode in the local finder to search electrical recycling points and household hazardous waste services and household waste recycling centres and retailer take-back points near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.

How should I handle light bulbs before disposal?

Check the bulb type. LEDs and fluorescent bulbs use electrical or lamp recycling, while some sites treat old incandescent bulbs as general waste.