If you’re someone like me, you love a good glass tabletop. They’re sleek and modern, and make a great addition to any home. But what do you do when it’s time to dispose of one?
If you have a glass table top that you need to get rid of, there are a few options for disposal. You can recycle the glass, donate it, or trash it.
A glass tabletop may seem sturdy, but it can be just as fragile as any other type of table. Getting rid of an old table can feel like a lot to handle. I will go over many methods in detail so you can choose which one best suits your needs.
So continue reading for more information!
How to Dispose of a Glass Table Top – 5 Methods
1. Recycle
If your municipality has a recycling program that accepts glass, you can recycle your glass table top. To recycle, remove any hardware from the tabletop, such as screws or hinges. Place the glass table top in your recycling bin. If your municipality does not have a glass recycling program, check with local recycling facilities to see if they accept glass.
2. Donate
If the glass table top is in good condition, you may be able to donate it to a local thrift store, charity, or community organization. Call ahead to see if the organization accepts glass table tops and if there are any special requirements for donating.
3. Sell
If you do not want to keep the glass table top and it is in good condition, you may be able to sell it. One option is to sell it online through a marketplace, such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Letgo. Another option is to have a garage sale and include the glass table top in the sale.
4. Repurpose
If the glass table top is no longer usable as a table top, you may be able to repurpose it. One option is to use it as a greenhouse for starting plants. Another option is to use it as a base for a terrarium.
5. Dispose
If the glass table top is broken or damaged, you will need to dispose of it. The best option is to take it to a local recycling facility that accepts glass. If there is no local recycling facility, you will need to dispose of the glass table top in the trash.
Are Glass Table Tops Recyclable?
Yes, glass table tops can be recycled. According to a Survey, nearly 3.33 Million metric tons of glass are recycled just in the US every year. By recycling your glass tabletop, you’re doing your part to make this planet clean.
How to Recycle Glass Table Tops
You may know that recycling glass table tops can be difficult, but you likely don’t know how to proceed. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We will explain four steps below on how to recycle your glass table tops.
Recycling Stations in your area:
Do not assume that your local recycling station is incapable of recycling glass. Begin by confirming that your local recycling station will accept glass before attempting to recycle it. Only attempt stage two when stage one is not possible.
Specialized Recycling Stations:
To find the best recycling option near you, act like a private investigator. Don’t fret, it’s not as challenging as you may believe. If you type “recycling stations” into the Google search bar, a bunch of options will pop up. Believe it or not, your local recycling center might take glass table tops.
Check The Quality Of Your Glass Tops:
You don’t have to be an expert to identify the quality of your glass. If you have the box that the glass came in, great! You can find everything you need there. If not, take the glass table tops’ measurement of length, width, and thickness.
The recycling center employee will need this information to determine whether your material is recyclable and what the facility’s policies are for accepting it.
Take the glass top for Recycling:
In the final stage, you’ll take the glass tops and place them in the special recycling station. You have the option of driving to their office or asking them to come to pick it up if they participate in a glass collection program.
If you follow these steps, recycling glass will be a breeze. The only time you should trash glass instead of recycling it is when the glass can’t be recycled or you can’t find a recycling station that accepts it.
How To Dispose Of Broken Glass
Thorough, quick, and delicate disposal of broken glass is essential. A broken piece of glass or a poorly disposed cracked mug has the likelihood to cause severe harm.
First of all, you will need the following tools:
– Newspaper or cardboard box
– Rubber or latex gloves
– A heavy-duty garbage bag
-Multi-purpose cleaner
-Pin bag
-Vacuum Cleaner
Secondly, you must follow these steps:
1. Pick up more significant shards first
Large pieces of glass are the most dangerous, so start by picking them up with a piece of cardboard or newspaper. Wearing gloves can help prevent your hands from being cut.
2. Sweep up the smaller pieces
Use a broom to sweep up the smaller pieces and a dustpan to transfer them into the garbage bag. Be sure to dispose of the paper or cardboard you used to pick up the glass.
3. Vaccum the area
Any small pieces of glass you may have missed can be picked up with a vacuum cleaner that has a brush attachment. Always remember to take the vacuum bag outdoors and dispose of it in the trash.
4. Clean the area
Wipe down the room with a multi-purpose cleaner to remove any residue. Rub a piece of bread or a damp paper towel over the entire area. The glass will adhere to it. After you’ve cleaned up the glass, place the bread or paper towel on top of it.
5. Dispose of the glass
Tie up the garbage bag and place it in a bin with a lid. Please remember to wash your hands thoroughly after coming into contact with the glass.
Alternatives to Glass Table Tops
Some potential alternatives to glass table tops are briefly mentioned below which you may consider.
1. Laminate Tables top
Laminate tables have a hard and durable surface which is ideal for households with kids and pets. They are easy to clean and maintain and come in a variety of colors and designs which makes them a popular choice among homeowners.
2. Solid Wood
Many people choose solid wood tables for their homes as they are durable and have a natural appearance which can add to the aesthetic appeal of your home. Although they need more upkeep than other options and aren’t as simple to clean.
3. Plexiglass Table top
Thermoplastic acrylics, such as Plexiglass, have become a popular alternative to glass because they are clear and strong. Plexiglass is known for its high optical clarity, making it an ideal choice for clear sheet material. Not only is it a sturdy choice, but it also has impressive strength values. They are resistant to impact, meaning they won’t break as easily as regular glass.
4. Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate or Lexan is another type of clear thermoplastic. It is exceedingly strong. Because it can resist a lot of force, it is usually used in important projects.
5. Tempered Glass
It is a safety glass that can resist high temperatures and pressure. The glass is heated beyond its breaking point and then cooled rapidly to increase its strength. Glass is made strong to withstand tough impacts without shattering. Tempered glass is a safer option for those replacing the glass on their tables.
FAQS
How do I clean my Glass Table Top?
Use a gentle cleanser and a soft cloth to clean your glass table top. You can also use a window cleaner for extra shine. Grating chemicals and caustic cleaners can ruin the surface of your glass table, so it’s best to stay away from them.
Can We Throw Away A Broken Glass?
Yes, you can do it by following the rules in your area. We would recommend you gather all broken glass or sharp materials (excluding needles) and place them in a cardboard box. Secure the lid of the box with tape, and label it accordingly. Place the box next to your garbage can/bag and it will be collected with the rest of the materials.
Conclusion
According to a study, 10 million metric tons of glass waste is produced every year in just America so just think of the amount of waste that is produced globally. Playing your part in saving the Earth is easy – recycle your glass products.
Consult your local recycling facilities to determine the best way to dispose of a glass tabletop. They will tell you if these items can be recycled or not. If you cannot recycle it, think about reusing it for something else! Donate it to a local thrift shop or take on a creative project and upcycle the glass tabletop into something unique.
We’re glad you stuck with us through this guide and we hope it was helpful! If you still have questions or comments, please let us know in the section below.
Thank you.
My name is Ella Vicedomine and I’m the founder of this blog. The aim is to start this informational blog to guide people on how to dispose of waste things around in the house but in the right way.