Can you recycle energy-saving cfl bulbs?
Compact fluorescent (energy-saving) bulbs contain a small amount of mercury, so they must never go in general waste or any kerbside bin — take them to lamp-recycling points at recycling centres or participating shops. If one breaks, ventilate the room for 15 minutes, sweep (don't vacuum) the debris into a sealed container and take it to the recycling centre.
Tips
- Broken CFL: air the room, sweep don't vacuum, seal in a jar
- Same collection bins as LEDs at most stores
Which bin does it go in?
Lamp-recycling points ONLY — they contain mercury
🏭 Find the nearest suitable location
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Background: Batteries, vapes & electricals: the fire-risk items.
Also searched as: energy saving bulbs, compact fluorescent, low energy bulbs.
✓ Checked against current UK guidance: 14 Jul 2026. Spot an error or an out-of-date rule?