Spring Cleaning? Know What To Throw Away In Grand Junction

Spring cleaning is underway in Grand Junction, and some may think it is no big deal to toss an old battery or paint can into the trash. Well, in Colorado, it actually is a big deal.

Did you know state guidelines restrict items like motor oil, electronics, and chemicals from landfills? Just one of these items can also contaminate an entire recycling load. Keep scrolling for a refresher on what belongs in the trash or the recycle bin, and what does not.

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Items You Should Never Throw Away in Colorado

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Certain items are flat-out banned and/or restricted from landfills in Colorado. Several items pose risks to landfills and groundwater, and some are fire hazards. This is why the state requires special handling or recycling programs for the following items.

LOOK: It Is Illegal To Throw These Things Away In Colorado

There are 14 items that should never be thrown out with the trash in Colorado. Check out this helpful list of hazardous waste reminders that should never go in the garbage in Colorado. While some of these items can be turned in on local hazardous waste collection days, six items on this list can get you into big trouble if you are caught dumping them at a landfill.

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Common Things That Are NOT Recyclable (Even If They Look Like It)

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Just as there are items that are not supposed to go to the landfill with the garbage truck, there are items that do not belong in your recycle bin, either. Items like greasy pizza boxes or food-spoiled containers can contaminate otherwise clean recyclables. Even items like Styrofoam and disposable cups are rejected by curbside recycling programs, which can result in the entire load being discarded instead of reused.

MORE: You Can't Recycle These Things in Colorado

Recycling is great for our environment. Sadly, somethings are unable to be recycled. Here are a few things you can't recycle in Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Tim Gray

Where to Take These Items Instead in Colorado

The good news is that Western Colorado already has safe, legal ways to dispose of items that are not permitted in landfills or recycling facilities. Most counties in the state offer household hazardous waste facilities and collection events for chemicals, paint, and electronics. Local businesses such as AutoZone and O'Reilly Auto Parts can help with used motor oil, and Batteries Plus can help with batteries. Local recycling centers usually handle tires and e-waste separately. Checking your county's disposal program is the easiest way to dispose of items properly without fines.

NEXT: 20 Western Colorado Problems You Learn to Laugh About

If you live on Colorado’s Western Slope, you already know the state feels very different once you cross the mountains. Life here is shaped by distance, weather, and access in ways that Front Range residents rarely have to think about.