The Correct Way To Dispose Of Old Tires

Depending on driving habits and road conditions, car tires can last between 40,000 and 60,000 miles, or approximately six years. Besides road vehicles, many other types of equipment, such as bicycles and wheelbarrows, also have tires that can become old and degraded. When you have old tires, it can be tempting to simply throw them out with your trash, but there is a correct way to dispose of them so they are recycled and don't end up polluting the environment.

The best (and maybe easiest) way to get rid of your old tires is to return them to the retailer where you're buying new ones. Most tire stores will accept your old tires when you buy new ones — they can handle the recycling for you. You can expect to pay a small fee for this service, but it's the most convenient way to ensure they are disposed of properly.

It's important to dispose of tires the right way through a recycling program and not in a way that can be dangerous for your health or the environment. This means never throwing them in the regular trash since they are often banned from landfills. Tires are also one of the common items you shouldn't be putting in your recycling bin since they require a separate, specialized recycling process. You should also refrain from dumping them somewhere illegally, like in a pond, field, or woods — this can create a significant (and unknown) fire hazard. And while it might seem like a good idea to burn your used tires during a campfire, it's critical that you do not — burning them releases toxic chemicals like benzene and sulfur dioxide that will pollute the air and surrounding soil.

If you haven't bought new tires recently and don't live near a tire retailer, you do have other convenient ways to dispose of them. First, check with your city's or town's solid waste or recycling department. Many local dumps and transfer stations can accept used tires for a fee. It's best to call ahead to see if they accept tires, what the cost will be, and if any quantity limitations apply. Additionally, many cities offer special collection events for things that aren't generally accepted in regular trash, like household hazardous waste or bulky waste. Check with your city's waste management website to see when the next event is and what is accepted.

If, after all that, you're still looking for a way to dispose of used tires, there are many creative ways to repurpose tires in your backyard and garden that will help the environment and your wallet. If you have only a few tires, you can give them new life by turning them into planters for your garden, a swing for a tall tree, or even an innovative dog bed or outdoor furniture. Before going this route, though, remember to check that they are free of steel belts and sharp edges, and avoid using them for edible gardening in case the chemicals leak into the soil. At the very least, this will give you extra time to properly recycle them by decluttering your garage and also adding a unique, functional piece to your home.