What NOT To Do With Broken Christmas Lights in New York

Every year, when the holiday season ends, many New Yorkers find themselves faced with the question of what to do with their broken or unwanted Christmas lights.

While it may be tempting to toss them in the garbage or recycling bin, that’s the last thing that waste management facilities in New York want you to do. The reason for not tossing your lights out is because the glass in the lightbulbs breaks easily and the cord can get tangled in the processing machinery.

So, what is a person supposed to do if they have lights that no longer work but their local waste management has asked them not to throw them in the trash? Here are some options.

Repair Instead of Discard

Repairing broken light strands not only reduces waste but also saves you money in the long run. Check for any loose bulbs or frayed wires and see if you can fix the issue yourself.

Check Local Options

If repairing the lights is not possible, consider reaching out to local home improvement stores or scrap metal collection sites to inquire if they accept broken Christmas lights. Some communities in New York may have specific programs for recycling holiday lights, so it's worth checking with your municipality to see if they offer such services.

Online Trade-In Programs

Another option for disposing of broken Christmas lights is to utilize online trade-in programs. Websites like Holiday LEDs and Christmas Light Source offer incentives for recycling old lights, such as discounts on new purchases or donations to charitable causes. This not only helps you get rid of your old lights but also allows you to contribute to a good cause.

Dispose Properly

As a last resort, if you are unable to repair, recycle, or trade-in your broken Christmas lights, it is important to dispose of them properly. Do not throw them in the garbage or curbside recycling, as the glass in the lightbulbs can easily break and cause harm in waste processing facilities. Instead, look for designated electronic recycling drop-off locations in your area or contact your local waste management services for guidance on safe disposal methods.

Next Year, Consider Switching to LED Lights

To reduce the chances of dealing with broken Christmas lights in the future, consider switching to LED lights. LED Christmas lights use less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent lights. Additionally, LED lights are more durable and less likely to break.