The Ultimate Guide to Recycling at Home
Your comprehensive resource for responsibly recycling everyday household items, with practical guidance on what can be dropped off at The Home Depot and how to handle home project waste
Circularity at The Home Depot
We introduced Circularity as one of our five sustainability pillars in 2019. Our focus has been to prevent products and packaging from becoming waste throughout the product life cycle. We strive to offer products designed for a lower environmental impact, and we encourage suppliers to innovate how they produce and package products, with a focus on reuse and longevity.
Circularity is the principle that products and materials should remain useful for as long as possible rather than being used once and discarded. In a “take, make, waste” system, items are produced from raw materials, used and then sent to landfills. Circularity aims to break that pattern by keeping materials in motion through reuse, repair, recycling and smarter packaging.
In your home, the familiar reduce, reuse and recycle framework is often the easiest practice to start. Circularity comes to life when you choose durable products, repair or reuse what you have, compost food scraps, and recycle correctly by following package labels and local guidance. Small, everyday choices like these can make a meaningful difference in reducing waste. Recycling is not the only part of circularity, but it’s often the easiest practice to start at home.
We’ve created this guide to help you confidently divert products and packaging purchased from us, with clear directions on what can be returned to The Home Depot, and what must be handled through your local recycling infrastructure. Where The Home Depot can support you directly, we’ve built dedicated, in-store recycling programs. And our goal is to always empower you with the information you need to use local, municipal or specialty recycling channels responsibly.
Universal Recycling Rules
Before you start, these three principles apply to all recycling:
- Follow local rules first. What is accepted can vary by location and hauler.
- Keep recyclables clean, empty and dry. Soiled items can contaminate an entire load.
- Check the label when available. If a package or product has instructions or a label on how to recycle it, follow that guidance.
Check Locally
Recycling rules vary widely by city, county and hauler. Always confirm what is accepted in your area before placing items in curbside recycling.
Packaging and Plastics
Packaging is one of the biggest sources of everyday household waste. This section covers hard plastics, soft plastics, plastic plant pots, packing foam, and cardboard and paper packaging, with guidance on what can be recycled curbside, what requires store drop-off and how to identify different material types.
Hard Plastics (rigid containers)
What They Are
Hard plastics include rigid containers and are often identified by a plastic type resin code number from 1–7 (the number inside the recycling triangle icon), though the code alone doesn’t guarantee recyclability or that your local program accepts the item. Common examples include plastic bottles, milk jugs, food and takeout containers, and storage tubs.
What to Do
Confirm the material: Use the resin code to verify the type of plastic.
Check for a How2Recycle label: This provides the most accurate disposal instructions for the specific package.
Confirm local acceptance: Follow the local guidance even if the item has a recycling symbol.
Keep items clean and dry: Rinse containers and remove food residue.
Avoid wish-cycling: If you cannot verify an item is accepted locally, keep it out of your recycling bin.
Check Locally
Recycling rules vary widely by city, county and hauler. Always confirm what is accepted in your area before placing items in curbside recycling.
Soft Plastics (films and bags)
What They Are
Soft plastics are flexible films that can tangle sorting equipment at recycling facilities, so they are typically not accepted in curbside recycling. However, many can be recycled through store drop-off programs. Common examples include shopping and produce bags, bread bags, dry cleaning bags, plastic mailers, Bubble Wrap, air pillows, product overwrap, newspaper bags and case wrap from beverage multipacks.
What to Do
Look for a How2Recycle label: It should say Store Drop-Off.
Keep items clean and dry: Remove receipts, labels and any non-plastic materials.
Collect and drop off at participating retailers: Keep bags loose and unknotted unless bin signage specifies otherwise.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
Most Home Depot stores have plastic bag takeback bins near the entrance or Customer Service Desk. Availability varies by location and local regulations. Look for posted bin instructions and only drop off what the signage accepts.
Important
Do not put soft plastics in curbside recycling bins as they can jam sorting machinery and contaminate other recyclables.
Plastic Plant Pots (nursery containers)
What They Are
Plastic plant pots are the containers typically used to sell plants in our Garden Center. These are often called nursery containers or nursery pots. This category specifically refers to plastic garden containers, not ceramic or wooden planters.
What to Do
Reuse first: These make excellent containers for seedlings, garage storage or organizing small items.
Clean before recycling: Remove all soil and shake out loose dirt.
Check local guidelines: Some curbside programs accept clean plant pots, but others do not.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
Bring empty plastic plant pots from plants purchased at The Home Depot to the Garden Center recycling rack where available. Check with your local store for availability.
Packing Foams
What They Are
Packing foams include expanded polystyrene (EPS) packaging, molded foam inserts, foam peanuts and other protective foam materials commonly used to cushion products during shipping.
What to Do
Check for a resin code icon: If present, there will be a number 1–7. (EPS is typically #6.)
Confirm local acceptance: Most curbside programs do not accept foam.
Use specialty recyclers: Search Earth911 or similar locator tools to find foam recycling drop-offs in your area.
Check Locally
Recycling rules vary widely by city, county and hauler. Always confirm what is accepted in your area before placing items in curbside recycling.
Cardboard and Paper Packaging
What They Are
Cardboard and paper packaging includes corrugated boxes, shipping cartons, paperboard boxes (like cereal boxes) and other paper-based packaging materials.
What to Do
Break down boxes: This saves space and makes them easier to handle.
Keep it clean and dry: Grease-stained or wet cardboard may not be recyclable.
Remove excessive tape and plastic film: This could potentially damage machinery.
Recycle curbside: Cardboard is widely accepted in most municipal programs.
Doing Our Part
The Home Depot partners with Pratt Industries to recycle millions of tons of cardboard annually. Cardboard collected from our stores is transformed into new packaging materials, keeping this valuable resource in circulation. Learn more about how Pratt recycles cardboard on our Eco Actions website.
Check Locally
Recycling rules vary widely by city, county and hauler. Always confirm what is accepted in your area before placing items in curbside recycling. As a general rule, paper packaging that is waxed, plastic-coated (including laminated paper), foil-lined or covered in glitter is typically not accepted in curbside recycling because the coatings are difficult to separate during processing.
Batteries
Batteries power countless household items and tools, but improper disposal can create safety and environmental hazards. This section covers lead-acid, lithium-ion, nickel-based rechargeables, button and coin cell, and alkaline batteries, helping you identify which type you have and where to recycle it safely.
Important
Never put batteries in your curbside recycling bin. Some battery types can cause fires if crushed, or if terminals touch metal during processing.
Lead-Acid Batteries
What They Are
Lead-acid batteries are heavy, rechargeable batteries commonly used in vehicles and equipment. Common examples include batteries for cars and trucks, boats, tractors, lawn mowers and mobility devices.
What to Do
Return to The Home Depot: When you purchase a lead-acid battery from The Home Depot, you pay a refundable deposit fee that varies by state ($5–15). Customers are encouraged to bring back their used batteries with the receipt showing their purchase from a Home Depot store to receive their refundable deposit.
Return to a battery or auto parts retailer: Many other retailers accept lead-acid batteries when you purchase a replacement through them.
Use local recycling programs: Contact your city or county program for drop-off locations.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
The Home Depot accepts lead-acid batteries that were originally purchased from us. Note that this is a separate program from our Call2Recycle program. Make sure to bring your receipt to the Customer Service Desk to receive your deposit refund.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
What They Are
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries found in many modern electronics and power tools. They require careful handling because they can pose a fire risk if damaged. Common examples include batteries for power tools, laptops, cell phones, tablets, e-bikes, cordless vacuums and some small appliances, as well as separately sold battery packs.
What to Do
Prepare for drop-off: Tape terminals or place each battery in an individual bag to prevent short-circuiting.
Drop off at a battery recycling location: Many Home Depot stores have Call2Recycle bins.
For batteries inside devices: If you cannot safely remove the battery, recycle the entire device through an e-waste program.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
Many Home Depot stores have Call2Recycle bins near the entrance or Customer Service Desk that accept rechargeable batteries up to 11 pounds and under 300 watt-hours. This includes most lithium-ion power tool and laptop batteries. Check posted bin signage for complete acceptance guidelines.
Nickel-Based Rechargeables (NiMH and NiCd)
What They Are
Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries are older rechargeable battery technologies still found in many devices. NiCd batteries contain cadmium, making proper disposal especially important. Common examples include older power tools, cordless phones, digital cameras, some medical devices, and rechargeable AA and AAA batteries (often labeled NiMH or NiCd).
What to Do
Confirm battery type: Look for NiMH or NiCd on the battery label.
Tape terminals: Or place each battery in its own small bag.
Take to a rechargeable battery drop-off location: You can also use your local household hazardous waste program if required for NiCd in your area.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
Most Home Depot stores have Call2Recycle bins near the entrance or Customer Service Desk that accept rechargeable batteries, including NiMH and NiCd within posted program limits.
Button and Coin Cell Batteries
What They Are
Button and coin cell batteries are small, round batteries commonly used in compact electronics. Common examples include watches, calculators, hearing aids, key fobs, remote controls, small LED lights and some toys.
What to Do
Tape both sides: Or place each battery in its own small bag to prevent short-circuiting.
Use household hazardous waste programs: You can also find a specialty drop-off location through Earth911 or similar locator tools.
For batteries sealed in devices: If you cannot safely open the item, recycle the entire device through an e-waste program.
Note: Some battery programs focus specifically on rechargeable batteries. Check posted signage at drop-off bins to confirm button and coin cell acceptance.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
Many Home Depot stores have Call2Recycle bins near the entrance or Customer Service Desk that accept button or coin batteries within posted program limits.
Alkaline Batteries (single-use batteries)
What They Are
Alkaline batteries are non-rechargeable batteries commonly used in household devices. In many areas, these are considered nonhazardous, and disposal rules vary significantly. Common examples include AA, AAA, C, D and 9V batteries used in flashlights, remote controls, toys, clocks and smoke detectors.
What to Do
Check local guidance first: Some communities offer collection events or drop-off locations.
Recycle when possible: If no local option exists, consider a mail-in battery recycling service.
If disposal in trash is necessary: Store used batteries in a container and tape 9V terminals before disposal to prevent short-circuits.
Note: Call2Recycle bins at The Home Depot are for rechargeable batteries only, not single-use alkaline batteries.
Doing Our Part
The Home Depot partners with Call2Recycle to make battery recycling easy for customers. Our in-store collection bins safely handle rechargeable batteries, keeping hazardous materials out of landfills and enabling valuable metals to be recovered and reused. Learn more about making battery recycling easy for customers on our Eco Actions website.
Light Bulbs
Different bulb types require different handling methods. This section covers compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs), fluorescent tubes, LEDs, and incandescent and halogen bulbs, with clear guidance on which can be recycled, and which require special handling due to mercury content.
CFL Bulbs
What They Are
CFL bulbs are energy-efficient, spiral- or tube-shaped bulbs that contain a small amount of mercury. They screw into standard light fixtures and were popular before LED technology became widespread.
What to Do
Keep bulbs intact: Transport carefully to avoid breaking.
Recycle, don’t trash: CFLs should never go in regular household trash due to their mercury content.
Drop off at a CFL recycling location: Many retailers and municipal programs accept unbroken CFLs.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
Many U.S. Home Depot stores accept unbroken CFL bulbs (not fluorescent tubes) for recycling. Look for collection bins near the entrance or Customer Service Desk. Follow the drop-off instructions at the bin.
Important
Do not put CFL bulbs in curbside recycling or household trash as they contain mercury and require special handling.
Fluorescent Tubes
What They Are
Fluorescent tubes are long, straight bulbs commonly used in shops, garages and commercial spaces. Like CFLs, they contain mercury and require special disposal. Common examples include T8 tubes, T12 tubes, shop lights and garage fixture bulbs.
What to Do
Start with your local household hazardous waste guidance: Fluorescent tubes contain mercury, so your city, county, or state program often sets drop-off rules and approved locations.
Use a recycling locator if you need help finding a site: Search Earth911 (or a similar tool) to find a designated collection location near you.
Transport safely: Keep tubes unbroken and secure them in the original box or a protective sleeve, then take them to the drop-off location recommended by your local program.
LED Bulbs
What They Are
LED bulbs are energy-efficient bulbs that do not contain mercury. They last significantly longer than traditional incandescent bulbs and are the current standard for home lighting.
What to Do
Check local guidance: Acceptance varies by community.
Consider e-waste programs: Some electronics recycling programs accept LEDs.
Incandescent and Halogen Bulbs
What They Are
Incandescent bulbs are traditional light bulbs with a filament, while halogen bulbs are a more efficient variation. Neither contains mercury. Common examples include traditional, decorative, appliance and track lighting bulbs.
What to Do
Dispose in household trash: Do this if your local program doesn’t specify a recycling option.
Wrap broken glass securely: This helps protect waste handlers.
Organic Waste (Food and Yard)
Food scraps and yard waste are valuable resources that can be transformed into nutrient-rich compost instead of taking up space in landfills. This section provides simple steps to start composting at home, from choosing the right starter setup to understanding what can and cannot go in your compost bin.
What They Are
Food and yard organic waste includes biodegradable materials that can be composted into soil amendment for gardens and landscaping. Common compostable waste includes fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds and filters, tea bags, eggshells, yard trimmings, grass clippings, leaves, small twigs, shredded paper and untreated cardboard. (Be sure to check local guidance.) Things that can’t go in compost include meat and bones, dairy products, oils and fats, pet waste, diseased plants, treated wood and glossy paper.
Choose the Best Setup for Your Space
Pick the option that feels easiest to keep up with week to week:
Backyard bin: Good for larger yards and steady amounts of yard trimmings
Compost tumbler: Helpful if you want a contained system that is easier to turn
Small-space option: A compact bin, tumbler or worm bin designed for patios, balconies or indoor storage
Countertop pail: A simple way to collect kitchen scraps neatly before you bring them outside
Electronics and Appliances
Electronics and appliances contain valuable materials that can be recovered through recycling, but they often require specialized handling. This section covers what qualifies as e-waste, where to recycle these items and how The Home Depot haul-away service can help with major appliance replacement.
Major Appliances
What They Are
Major appliances are large household devices used for cooking, cleaning and climate control. Common examples include refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, ranges, ovens, microwaves, water heaters, air conditioners and dehumidifiers.
What to Do
Look for haul-away options: Check to see available options when purchasing a replacement appliance.
Confirm service details: Check what qualifies and what the requirements are before delivery day.
Prepare your old appliance: Remove personal items and follow any prep instructions provided during purchase.
Home Depot Haul-Away Locations
Haul-away service is often available with delivery for select appliances. Service and availability vary by area. Ask about this option when purchasing your new appliance.
Doing Our Part
Behind the scenes, The Home Depot operates specialized Return Logistics Centers where hauled-away appliances, returns and damaged items are sorted. When products can’t go back to store shelves, these facilities recycle them, return them to vendors or route them to liquidation partners. This reverse logistics approach helps keep products and materials moving through the circular process instead of becoming waste, supporting our commitment to circularity at scale.
Electronics and Small Devices
What They Are
Electronic devices usually have circuit boards, screens or complex components that require specialized recycling. Common examples include speakers, routers and small kitchen appliances with electronic controls.
What to Do
Remove personal data: Wipe devices before recycling, then remove any SIM or memory cards if applicable.
Do not put electronics in curbside recycling: Many programs do not accept them, and they can damage sorting equipment.
Use a state-specific resource to find the right program: Electronics rules vary by state and local programs. Start with The Home Depot’s electronics recycling resource, then check your local waste authority for more options.
Home Improvement and DIY Materials
Renovation and DIY projects generate materials that don’t fit into standard recycling. Common examples include construction waste, reusable materials and items requiring special disposal, from carpet and drywall to scrap metal and hazardous materials.
General Building Materials
What They Are
Building materials encompass a wide range of products used in home construction, renovation and repairs. Common examples include drywall and gypsum board, insulation (fiberglass, foam board), carpet and carpet padding, tile and flooring materials, blinds and window treatments, plumbing fixtures, cabinets and countertops, windows and doors, and tools and hardware.
What to Do
Separate materials when possible: This makes recycling and disposal easier.
Check your local waste authority: Search your city or county website for construction and demolition waste guidance.
Use recycling locators: Find material-specific drop-offs through Earth911 or similar tools.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
When you choose The Home Depot for installation of newly purchased products like carpet, flooring, cabinets, windows or doors, we will haul away your old materials and dispose of them responsibly. Ask about haul-away service when scheduling your installation.
Wood Scraps
What They Are
This category refers to all wood scraps, including untreated lumber, left over from projects. Common examples include 2x4s, plywood scraps, dimensional lumber offcuts and unpainted wood trim.
What to Do
Reuse first: Scrap wood is perfect for small DIY projects like building birdhouses and garden planters or for just simple repairs.
Dispose responsibly: Check local construction waste guidelines if you cannot reuse.
Scrap Metals
What They Are
This includes metal materials and hardware from home projects. Common examples include rebar, wire, pipes, fasteners (nails, screws, bolts), metal brackets and old tools.
What to Do
Sort by type: Separate ferrous vs. nonferrous metals whenever possible.
Take to a scrap metals recycler: Many facilities accept scrap metals and may offer payment for certain types.
Hazardous Materials
What They Are
Some project leftovers require special handling and should never go in curbside recycling or regular trash. Common examples include paint (both latex and oil-based), pesticides and herbicides, chemicals and cleaners (solvents, acids, corrosives), motor oil and automotive fluids, and aerosol cans with product remaining.
What to Do
Keep in original containers: Clearly label contents for easy identification.
Use household hazardous waste programs: Contact your local waste authority for collection events or permanent drop-off locations.
Important
Never put hazardous materials in curbside recycling or regular trash. They can harm waste handlers, damage equipment and contaminate the environment.
Household Items and Donations
Recycling is important, but reuse is often an even better first step when something is still in good condition. This section explains how to donate usable household goods and what to prepare before drop-off.
What They Are
Reusable household items that can benefit others instead of going to waste include clothing and shoes, small items such as kitchenware and décor, toys, books and games, storage bins and organizers, and linens and towels.
What to Do
Donate only clean, usable items: Items should be in good condition, free of damage and ready to use.
Group similar items together: This makes sorting easier for donation centers.
Follow bin guidelines at drop-off locations: Respect the posted restrictions.
Home Depot Drop-Off Locations
Some Home Depot locations have America in Action donation bins outside the store that accept clothing, shoes and small household goods. Look for these bins near the entrance. Availability varies by location.
Additional Resources
Use these trusted resources to find local recycling options, understand package labels and stay informed about proper disposal methods:
- Earth911 Recycling: This is a comprehensive database of recycling locations by material type and ZIP code.
- How2Recycle Label Guide: Learn how to read and follow package recycling labels.
- Your local waste authority: Search for your city or county solid waste department for the most accurate local rules.
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