CRT TV disposal: how to get rid of an old tube TV safely

Updated 6 November 2026 · By the TV Disposal team

Short answer: Old CRT tube TVs contain several kilograms of leaded glass and are classed as hazardous waste, so they must be recycled at a specialist WEEE facility and never put in household bins or fly-tipped. You can take one to a household waste recycling centre for free, book a council collection, or pay for a collection, which usually costs £30 to £70 because CRT sets are so heavy.

Why CRT TVs are different

A CRT television uses a large glass picture tube. The glass contains lead to shield against radiation, and the tube is under vacuum, so it should not be broken open. Larger sets can weigh 30 to 60 kilograms or more, which makes them awkward and risky to lift and carry.

Handling tips

Always lift with two people for anything larger than a small portable set
Keep the screen facing inwards and avoid knocking the tube
Do not try to remove the back cover or break the set down
Never leave it outside in the rain or on the street

Disposal options

Household waste recycling centre, free if you can transport it
Council bulky waste collection, usually for a fee
Private collection by a registered waste carrier
Collectors of retro gaming and video equipment, for working sets

What happens to the glass

At a WEEE treatment facility the tube is separated, the leaded funnel glass is handled as hazardous material, and the metals, plastics and circuit boards are recovered for recycling.