Just realized my glass scavenging has a tricky side I never considered

I've been grabbing old bottles from recycling bins to melt down for my pieces. It seemed like a win-win for my wallet and the planet. But I learned some colored glass might have lead or other stuff that's bad when heated. Now I feel stuck between being eco-friendly and possibly risking my health. How do you handle unknown glass sources?

3 comments

3 Comments

young.kim2mo ago

Check how much glass actually has lead these days. Most bottles in recycling bins are modern beer or soda bottles, which are likely fine. Old fancy glass like crystal had lead, but your average colored bottle probably doesn't. Melting a few pieces in a well aired space won't expose you to much. People often blow these risks out of proportion without solid evidence. Just take basic steps and don't stress over it.

harpery472mo ago

Totally agree, melted some colored glass last year without any problems.

josepha322mo ago

Good point, harpery47. Just keep a window open.