When you’re trying to get rid of things around your yard or home, it might seem easiest to just bury some items in the soil. But not everything is safe or environmentally friendly to put underground.
Knowing which items need special disposal helps protect your garden, your health, and the environment. Taking a little extra time to handle certain things properly makes a big difference in avoiding pollution and harmful effects.
Pressure-treated wood
Pressure-treated wood contains chemicals to resist rot and insects, but these same chemicals can be harmful to the environment and your health. You shouldn’t just bury this wood in your yard or compost it.
Instead, check your local regulations for proper disposal options. Many areas require you to take it to a special landfill or recycling center. You can also consider repurposing it for projects where it won’t cause harm, like outdoor fencing or raised garden beds with a liner.
Household cleaning products
When you have leftover cleaning supplies, don’t just toss them in the trash or pour them down the drain. Many of these products contain chemicals that can harm the environment or damage plumbing.
If you can, try to use them up before buying more. If not, look for local hazardous waste programs where you can safely drop off unused or expired cleaners.
Avoid mixing different chemicals when disposing of them, as this can cause dangerous reactions. Taking these steps helps protect your home and the planet.
Batteries
You shouldn’t just toss batteries in the trash or bury them. They contain chemicals that can leak into soil and water, which isn’t great for the environment.
Instead, look for local battery recycling programs. Many stores and recycling centers accept used batteries safely.
Single-use alkaline batteries can often be thrown away with regular trash, but it’s better to check your local rules. Lithium-ion batteries, like those in phones or laptops, need special handling to avoid fire risks.
Proper disposal protects you and the environment, so take a moment to do it right.
Old electronics
You probably have old phones, laptops, or chargers lying around. Tossing them in the trash can harm the environment. Electronics contain materials that need special handling to avoid pollution.
Before you get rid of them, wipe your data to protect your privacy. You can donate working devices to shelters or recycle through certified programs. This way, your old gadgets won’t end up in landfills and can be reused or recycled safely.
Blessed religious items
If you have blessed religious items, like rosaries or scapulars, you should treat them with respect when disposing of them. Throwing them in the trash isn’t the best idea.
Burning these items is a common way to dispose of them properly. You can also bury them if burning isn’t an option.
It’s good to say a short prayer or give thanks before letting go of these items. This shows respect for their spiritual significance in your life.
Broken rosaries
If your rosary breaks, don’t just toss it in the trash. These items are considered sacred, so it’s best to handle them with care.
If possible, try to repair your rosary. If it’s beyond fixing, burning it respectfully is a good option, especially if it’s made from flammable materials.
For rosaries made of metal or plastic, burying is a respectful way to dispose of the pieces. This helps honor their special purpose and keeps them from being treated casually.
