It seems that more and more households are recycling, and that is great for the environment. However there are actually some things that you can not recycle or throw away. These things need to be disposed of properly becuase if they go the landfill they could end up in our ground water and eventually contaminate our drinking water.

Household Items You Can Not Recycle or Throw Away

1. Batteries. Recycling rechargeable batteries is fairly easy. Most stores take them back at no charge. You can return them at Home Depot, Staples, Radio Shack, Best Buy, and other retailers . There are fewer options for single-use batteries, but look for bins at your local Whole Foods Market, Ikea, or library. Otherwise, your best bet is the local household hazardous waste drop-off site.
   
2. Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). These energy-efficient bulbs are becoming easier to get rid of. Just drop old bulbs off at any Home Depot or Ikea for free recycling. Or ask about CFL recycling at your local Ace Hardware or home improvement store.
   
3. Electronics. Every retailer that takes back rechargeable batteries also accepts mobile phones, as do most wireless providers. For computers, cameras, televisions and others, it’s worthwhile to do a little homework because some stores charge fees depending on item and brand. Check out Best Buy, Staples, and Office Depot to see what’s the best fit. Some places, like Radio Shack, have trade-in programs where you can receive store credit for your old gadgets. Click through to learn more about computer and TV recycling in Cincinnati.
   
4. Motor Oil. In case you need some motivation, consider this: Every gallon of used motor oil that’s improperly disposed of can contaminate one million gallons of drinking water. Bring it to Wal-Mart, Autozone, Jiffy Lube, or search online for more convenient choices.
5. Paint. It’s among the hardest items to properly dispose of, but it’s worth it! Remember, with proper planning and application, paint disposal is usually unnecessary. Buy the right amount for your project.  Apply a second coat and touch up areas that need improvement. If the paint is still in good shape, consider donating it. Never throw away leftover liquid paints in your trash. Ask your paint or hardware store for ways to properly dispose of it!