RECYCLING
Used or burnt-out CFLs should be recycled whenever possible. For more information on how to recycle your CFL bulbs, consult our CFL Recycling page.
BROKEN BULBS
Broken CFL bulbs should be cleaned-up and disposed of in a safe, environmentally responsible way. A broken CFL bulb is not an alarming situation; as explained on our CFLs and Mercury Content page, the amount of mercury in CFLs is very small. Still, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends the following simple steps be taken to clean up a broken CFL bulb:
1) Open a window and air out a room. Also, turn off any central heating or air conditioning system.
2) Using disposable gloves, stiff paper, or cardboard, carefully scoop up the pieces of the broken bulb and place them into a sealed plastic bag. On hard surfaces, do not vacuum broken bulb pieces.
3) Wipe the area clean with disposable wet wipes or a damp paper towel.
4) Place all clean-up materials, and the bag containing broken bulb pieces, into a second resealable bag. Seal it and put it in the outdoor trash.
5) Wash your hands when finished.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information on CFL disposal, consult the U.S. EPA's CFL Disposal page.
