It can be tempting to consider the trash somewhere where you can throw out anything you no longer want. You may think that tossing certain items won't impact you since you'll never see them again after trash pickup day. However, it's not safe to put certain objects in the garbage bin. The following guide outlines some common household materials that require special disposal. 

What Should You Never Throw In a Standard Trash Can?

1. Batteries

Batteries contain corrosive and toxic chemicals, like cadmium and lead. Automotive batteries and lithium-ion batteries found in electronics also need to be disposed of differently to prevent these toxins from entering water runoff and groundwater supplies. Certain types of batteries contain sulfur, which can cause permanent kidney and heart damage.

Most of these products can be recycled. Some modern battery versions may be safe for household trash. For example, Duracell® says its batteries are made of steel, zinc, and manganese, which means they can be thrown away in the normal garbage. However, check with your local guidelines, as different states and cities have varying laws.

2. Paint

When using paint, the fumes are often difficult for people to be around. Imagine how this is amplified in a landfill over time. Oil-based products shouldn't be disposed of on normal trash pickup days, as they contain chemicals that can contaminate soil and water. In most states, this act is illegal. Take them to a hazardous waste facility instead.

3. Electronics

As the world upgrades phones and computers every couple of years, electronic waste quickly piles up. Not only do you need to worry about the lithium-ion batteries in certain devices, but many items also house heavy metals, like lead and cadmium. Computer towers contain beryllium oxide, which can cause chronic lung diseases.

4. Mercury

While it might seem old school, plenty of people still use mercury thermometers. If you have one that needs to be thrown away, you can't use standard disposal methods. Fluorescent light bulbs and computer monitors also contain small amounts of mercury. This chemical can contribute to muscle weakness, impaired physical development, and memory problems.

5. Oil and Gasoline

If you have some leftover motor oil or gasoline, don’t add it to your trash, and don’t pour it down the drain. These materials are dangerous, ignitable, corrosive, and potentially explosive, so they need to be handled properly.

If you're unsure if something can go into your garbage for standard trash pickup, reach out to the team at T-Mac Solid Waste & Roll-Off Service in Columbia, MO. This family-owned and -operated company has been serving customers throughout the area for over 30 years. They offer a wide range of services, including weekly residential curbside bag and can disposal and rear-load and roll-off container rentals for commercial and residential clients. Visit the website to learn more about their services, or call (573) 814-2844 to inquire about trash pickup.