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Topicdrill – Germany explained simply

Germany explained simply – moving, offices & paperwork in English

Where does it go? · Elektro

Disposing of: Light bulbs

Classic incandescent and halogen bulbs may go in residual waste. LED lamps, energy-saving bulbs and fluorescent tubes are electronic waste: collection box in shops or the recycling centre.

Fluorescent tubes and energy-saving bulbs contain mercury – don't break them.

01 Where it goes

  1. 01 · RECOMMENDEDGeneral waste binSmall amounts can go in the general waste bin.
  2. 02 Return to a shopMany retailers must take old products back, often when you buy a new one.
  3. 03 Recycling centreDrop it off yourself – opening hours and conditions are on the city page.

02 Tips

  • Not in the bottle bank – not even the incandescent bulb.

03 Good to know

Electrical appliances

Electrical items never go in household waste. Large retailers must take back small appliances for free, and larger ones when you buy a similar new device. Alternatively: the recycling centre.

ElektroG § 17

Recycling centre

At the recycling centre (Wertstoffhof) you drop off bulky waste, electronics, garden waste, wood, metal and more yourself. What's accepted and what it costs is set by the city's waste rules.

Give things a second life

Furniture and appliances that still work are welcome at social department stores, swap groups or classified ads – it saves fees and resources.

05 Disposing of Light bulbs in your city

? FAQ: Light bulbs

Q01Where do I take Light bulbs in Germany?

Classic incandescent and halogen bulbs may go in residual waste. LED lamps, energy-saving bulbs and fluorescent tubes are electronic waste: collection box in shops or the recycling centre.

Q02Does disposing of Light bulbs cost anything?

It depends on your city: many offer free bulky-waste pickups or free drop-off at the recycling centre up to a certain amount. Check your city page for the exact fees.