As spring arrives, many of us feel a surge of energy to declutter and take on home improvement projects. Instead of simply discarding everything, consider these eco-friendly ways to recycle unwanted items and dispose of hazardous materials responsibly. Not only will this help tidy up your home, but it also contributes to reducing waste sent to landfills, conserving natural resources, and supporting local recycling and manufacturing industries.
Paper
Many types of paper can be recycled, including mixed paper such as discarded mail, magazines and cardboard. Your home office might contain recyclable items like letterhead, files, phone books, copier paper or envelopes. Avoid recycling wet, greasy or soiled paper.
Plastic
Plastic jugs, jars and bottles can also be recycled – provided they’re clean and dry. Plastic items are not limited to the kitchen; your bathroom might contain recyclable items like shampoo bottles, liquid soap containers or mouthwash bottles. Empty plastic detergent or cleaning bottles from your laundry room or utility closet are also suitable for recycling.
Glass
While bottles, jars and non-food glass containers like perfume or face cream bottles are recyclable, they should be taken to designated local recycling centers rather than being placed in curbside recycling bins. You can find a list of local recycling centers at Chattanooga.gov (chattanooga.gov/public-works/city-wide-services/pw-recycling) and hamiltontn.gov (recycle.hamiltontn.gov/Where.aspx).
Ensure these items are cleaned and dried before recycling to prevent contamination. Remove lids and corks before recycling. Larger glass items such as vases, glass drinking cups, window glass, and glass cookware are typically not recyclable.
Furniture and household items
If you have gently used furniture or general household items like lighting fixtures, cabinets, appliances or lawn equipment, consider donating them to one of the thrift stores in our area, such as Habitat for Humanity or the Samaritan’s Center. Some thrift stores will even pick up your items. Or, you can try selling them on Facebook Marketplace. Just remember to pick a safe, well-lit area if you meet for your sales transaction.
Broken or worn appliances
Old or broken household appliances such as stoves, washing machines, refrigerators or dishwashers can often be recycled for their metal components. When purchasing a new appliance, inquire about recycling options with the installing company. Local scrap metal recyclers might also accept your old appliances.
Hazardous materials
Dispose of toxic materials carefully to prevent harm to people and the environment. Older materials in your home, garage or shed might contain hazardous substances such as paint strippers with methylene chloride (now banned). Use appropriate personal protective clothing including gloves when handling these substances.
Hazardous waste can be taken to the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility at 4063 North Hawthorne Street, which serves both Chattanooga and Hamilton County.
For a list of professionals to help with your home improvement needs, visit the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga at hbagc.net.