Proper Disposal and Recycling of Light Bulbs in Colorado

Proper disposal of light bulbs is essential for environmental protection and community safety. This guide outlines how to handle different types of light bulbs and highlights local recycling options in Wheat Ridge and Castle Rock, Colorado.

Incandescent and Halogen Bulbs

These bulbs contain no hazardous materials and can be disposed of with regular household trash. To prevent injury from broken glass, wrap them in their original packaging or another protective material before disposal. Recycling options are limited due to their materials.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) and Fluorescent Tubes

CFLs and fluorescent tubes contain small amounts of mercury, necessitating careful disposal. They should never be thrown away in household trash, as this could lead to mercury leaking into groundwater and contaminating the environment. Several retailers accept CFL bulbs and fluorescent tubes for recycling. Some even offer mail-in recycling services for these bulb types.

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

LED bulbs do not contain mercury, so they are not considered hazardous waste. However, they do contain electronic components like circuit boards, which have lead and arsenic. To dispose of LED bulbs in your regular trash service, simply drop the bulbs in the trash. LED bulbs are made of plastic and will not shatter. It’s advisable to check if local recycling programs accept LED bulbs as part of their special collection services.

Local Recycling Options in Wheat Ridge, Colorado

• Action Recycling Center: Located at 7610 W 42nd Ave, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033, this facility accepts various types of light bulbs for recycling. Contact them at (303) 424-1600.
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• Rooney Road Recycling Center: Situated at 151 South Rooney Road, Golden, CO, near the intersection of I-70, C-470, and West Colfax. They accept various materials, including light bulbs, by appointment on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
  Rooney Road Recycling 
• SustainAbility: Located at 6340 W 56th Ave, Arvada, CO 80002, they offer recycling services for various materials, including light bulbs. Contact them at 303-425-9226.
  Sustainability Recycling 

Local Recycling Options in Castle Rock, Colorado

• Community Recycling Center: Operates every Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon at 701 Prairie Hawk Drive, Castle Rock, CO. This volunteer organization provides free recycling services to residents of Castle Rock and surrounding communities.
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• Batteries Plus: Located at 4714 Milestone Lane Unit E, Castle Rock, CO 80104, this store accepts various types of light bulbs for recycling. Reach them at +1 720-821-8018. 

Proper Cleanup of Broken Bulbs

If a bulb breaks, especially those containing mercury, ventilate the area immediately and wear gloves to carefully clean the shards. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner, as it can spread mercury vapor. Instead, use sticky tape to pick up small particles and dispose of them in a sealed container.

By following these guidelines and utilizing local resources, you can ensure the safe disposal and recycling of light bulbs, contributing to a healthier environment in Wheat Ridge and Castle Rock, Colorado.