Residential garbage collection is a convenient way to get rid of most types of waste, from food scraps and packaging to worn-out clothes. However, many common household items should never go in the trash, and throwing some of them away is actually illegal. Here are a few pieces of waste that should be disposed of carefully.

What You Shouldn’t Throw in the Garbage

1. Household Cleaners

Many common cleaning products contain caustic chemicals that can pollute the soil and harm wildlife, especially if they find their way into the groundwater. Products with bleach, ammonia, and other caustic chemicals should be taken to your local hazardous waste facility. Kenai Peninsula residents can take their unused cleaners and other dangerous waste to the Homer Transfer Facility for safe processing.

2. Batteries

While today’s alkaline batteries are safer than older models, they still may contain enough mercury, nickel, and cadmium to pose a threat to the environment. Rechargeable batteries often contain lead acid, which can be especially harmful. The safest bet is to take all of your batteries to a hazardous waste facility rather than leave them out for residential garbage collection.

3. Motor Oil

Changing your own oil is a great way to save money, but the old lubricant should be disposed of carefully. Oil is both toxic and flammable, so it poses a risk even if it doesn’t leak into the environment. Many local auto shops accept used oil for processing, or you can take it to a hazardous waste facility.

4. TVs

From old CRT screens to cutting-edge OLED models, all TVs contain mercury and other elements that pollute groundwater, potentially affecting both animals and humans. Many elements inside these devices can be stripped out and reused, which makes proper disposal even better for the environment.

5. Cell Phones

Like most other electronic devices, cell phones contain lead, cadmium, and other dangerous minerals, as well as precious metals that can be recycled. Many also have permanent batteries that must be disposed of safely. Department stores and recycling drop-off centers usually have kiosks for discarding old cell phones, or you can mail them to an electronics scrap dealer.

For over 20 years, Moore & Moore Services Inc has been the Kenai Peninsula’s first choice for residential garbage collection. Whether you need regular curbside pickup in the Homer, AK, area or have a large load from a major project, you can rely on their team for prompt service and fair prices. Visit their website for more on their residential garbage collection services, or call (907) 235-8837 to schedule a pickup today.