Shaimos Guide

Shaimos

• Papers containing Hashem’s name in Hebrew (or any other language), even if not read.
• Seforim & Siddurim (in Hebrew or any other language).
• A posuk of Tanach (if it was read).
• Pictures, stamps or advertisements containing Hashem’s name (if it is readable without a magnifying glass).
• Mezuzah coverings.
• Tefillin boxes, tefillin straps & tefillin bags.
• Gidim of the Torah scroll.

Suggested Shaimos
(These items may be put in shaimos OR wrapped in a bag before disposing in the garbage or recycle bin.)

• Corner of a paper containing the letters “B”H”
• Torah articles from magazines (if possible to separate).
• Tzitzis [Fringes only] (or reuse for kedusha, like bookmark in a sefer).
• Lulav (or reuse for kedusha, like starting the fire for Biur Chometz).
• Schach and walls of a sukkah (or reuse for kedusha).
• Shofar.

Not Shaimos
(But should be treated with respect and wrapped before disposal)

• Audio/Video tapes, DVDs and CD-ROMs.
• Children’s homework, parsha sheets & tests (without Hashem’s name in Hebrew).
• Printed divrei Torah in English (for one-time use).
• Text including the name of a person or place that also contains a name of Hashem in Hebrew (i.e. Shmuel).
• Pictures, stamps or advertisements with pesukim of Torah (unless Hashem’s name is readable).
• Esrog boxes, shofar bags, and lulav covers.
• Seforim cases & book sleeves.
• Mezuzah nails.
• Tallis bags.