Household Hazardous Waste Suggestions
HHW – HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE
-Click on a Blue Letter to go to that section-
Read the labels and wear appropriate PPE’s |
Household hazardous wastes (HHW) fall into one of four
categories, which are noted on the container and will have a
hazardous symbol on it. |
Flammable – Ignites easily and burns rapidly. Corrosive - may cause deterioration of body tissues or erosion of material at the site of contact. Explosive - Contents may explode if incinerated or stored above 82° F
Toxic/Poison -
Harmful or deadly upon contact, ingestion or inhalation. |
PRODUCT
RED
= possible HHW |
INFORMATION -
SUGGESTIONS -
EXAMPLES |
HOW or WHERE
TO DISPOSE OF |
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Acids |
Read Labels
for handling and disposal instructions |
|
Adhesives |
Read Labels
for handling and disposal instructions. Loctite, Super Glue,
Gorilla Glue, etc. Among glues, the safest choices are white
glue, glue sticks, library paste, and yellow glue. Select them
whenever possible. |
If you have a
small amount of adhesive, open the container and let it dry. For
larger amounts, spread the adhesive in thin layers on cardboard
or newspapers. If the adhesive is in a tube, slit the tube for
drying. For two-part adhesives, mix them together before letting
them dry. When the adhesive has hardened, you can safely place
it in the trash. |
Aerosol Cans |
Try to use
non-aerosol products. Drain all aerosol canisters. DO this by
turning them upside down and spraying them into an absorbent
material like a paper town, rag or a sponge.
Once the can has lost all of its pressure, wrap it in
several layers of newspaper and throw it out with regular
household trash.
Examples: Hair Spray, Disinfectant Spray, Oven Cleaner, etc. |
Empty cans
may be thrown in the trash. |
Air Fresheners |
Phthalates
are chemicals that are added to your air fresheners to sustain
the fragrance for a longer period of time. Phthalates are toxic.
Read labels and choose natural fresheners without toxins. |
If aerosol cans, use up
and throw in trash.
If non-aerosol, use up and throw in trash. Contents may be
diluted with water and flushed if NOT using septic type system. |
Alkaline
Batteries |
Alkaline
Batteries are the most common disposable battery.
Small dry cell, sealed, non-rechargeable. Used in
cameras, toys, watches, handheld electronics. Nontoxic.
|
May be thrown
in the trash. |
Animal
Supplies |
Flea collars
contain insecticides; however the toxicity decreases over time.
Medications such as antibiotics, heart drugs, oral flea
chewable, ointments, shampoos, etc. check with your
veterinarian. |
Flea collars
may be thrown in trash. Any liquid type product may be diluted
and flushed if NOT using a septic type system. |
Antibacterial
Products |
Read the
labels. Examples are soaps, detergents, hand lotions, cleaners,
mouthwashes, etc. |
Dilute with
water and flush down drain |
Antifreeze |
Is a toxic
material and CANNOT be discarded in the trash. Propylene
Glycol-based antifreeze is less toxic that Ethylene
Glycol-based. Read
the labels. |
Do NOT mix
with any other car products. Keep labels on containers. |
Appliances |
Freon is a
toxic gas in refrigerators and freezers. If getting a
replacement appliance, ask the business you are purchasing it
from if they take and recycle the old appliance. |
|
Art Supplies |
Read the
labels for use, storage and disposal. Examples: Silica dust,
glaze, formaldehyde, solvents, paints, etc. |
|
Asbestos |
Becomes a
hazard when disturbed and fibers are inhaled.
Used extensively in home constructions 1940 thru 1970's.
Normally found as insulation wraps, blown in insulation,
roofing material, floor tiles, caulking and glazing, some
linoleums. |
If you
suspect a part of your home may contain asbestos, check
periodically for tears, abrasions, or water damage. If you
discover damaged material or plan on disturbing an old area that
may contain asbestos, call for professional repair or removal. |
Asphalt Roofing |
May contain
adhesives, tar residue, non-friable asbestos |
May be
disposed of in trash or taken to a landfill. |
B |
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Batteries -
Disposable |
Alkaline
Batteries are the most common disposable
battery. Small dry
cell, sealed, non-rechargeable. Used in cameras, toys, watches,
handheld electronics. Nontoxic.
Lithium Batteries are disposable small sealed,
non-rechargeable. Used in watches, cameras, handheld
electronics, pacemakers and remote car locks. Non-toxic.
Carbon Zinc Batteries are disposable small sealed,
non-rechargeable labeled General Purpose, or Heavy Duty. AAA,
AA, C, D, 9 volt, button cells.
Used in watches, cameras, electronics. Non-Toxic. |
In 1996 the
use of mercury in alkaline batteries was phased out.
Alkaline, Lithium and Carbon Zinc disposable batteries
may be thrown in to the trash. |
Batteries -
Motorized |
Lead acid
batteries used in Cars, Motorcycles, Boats, Outdoor Power
Equipment, motorized toys. Lead is a toxic heavy metal, contains
acid and could be corrosive. |
Most
automotive shops charge a core fee for the replacement of a
battery. The shop then recycles the battery. |
Batteries -
Rechargeable |
Lithium-Ion
Batteries are rechargeable and commonly used
in cell phones, laptops, power tools, video cameras electronics.
Nickel Cadmium Batteries are rechargeable and
commonly used in cell phones, laptops, powered tools,
electronics, toys, hobby vehicles, medical equipment. Cadmium is
a toxic heavy metal and should not be incinerated; it will
produce toxic cadmium vapors.
Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries are rechargeable
and commonly used in cell phones, laptops, power tools, cameras
electronics and hobby vehicles. |
|
Batteries -
UPS |
Uninterrupted
Power Supply batteries or computer battery backup batteries |
|
Batteries
Alkaline |
Alkaline
Batteries are the most common disposable
battery. Small dry
cell, sealed, non-rechargeable. Used in cameras, toys, watches,
handheld electronics. Nontoxic.
|
May be thrown
in the trash. |
Batteries
Button |
Varies in
sizes and uses.
Commonly used in watches, hearing aids, toys |
May be thrown
in the trash. |
Batteries Lead
Acid |
Lead acid
batteries used in Cars, Motorcycles, Boats, Outdoor Power
Equipment, motorized toys. Lead is a toxic heavy metal, contains
acid and could be corrosive. |
Most
automotive shops charge a core fee for the replacement of a
battery. The shop then recycles the battery. |
Batteries
Lithium-Ion - Rechargeable |
Lithium-Ion
Batteries are rechargeable and commonly used in cell phones,
laptops, power tools, video cameras electronics.
|
|
Batteries NiCad
-
Rechargeable |
Nickel
Cadmium or NiCad Batteries are rechargeable and commonly used in
cell phones, laptops, powered tools, electronics, toys, hobby
vehicles, medical equipment. Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal and
should not be incinerated; it will produce toxic cadmium vapors.
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|
Batteries
Nickel Metal Hydride -Rechargeable |
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Bleach -
Chlorine |
2 gallons or
Less - water soluble and may be diluted with water and emptied
into the drain. |
Triple rinse
container and throw into trash or recycle. |
Brake Fluids |
Brake Fluid
is alcohol-based and is toxic if ingested. |
Pour new or
unused brake fluid into a container of cat litter.
It will be absorbed and evaporate within a few days and
can be disposed of in the trash.
The plastic container may be tripled rinsed and thrown
away. |
Bug Spray |
Bug spray
examples: Off, Raid,
Repel. Products may be in aerosol and non-aerosol cans, pump
bottles, wipes, clip on, etc. |
Throw empty
cans of bug spray, bug spray wipes or solid bug spray packaging
into the trash. The cans of bug spray should not be burned or
heated in any way.
Liquids may be solidified with kitty litter and then thrown into
the trash. |
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Car Batteries |
Car Batteries
contain lead. Lead is a toxic heavy metal that contains acid
electrolyte that is corrosive if spilled. |
Most
automotive shops charge a core fee for the replacement of a
battery. The shop then recycles the battery. |
Car Waxes &
Polishes |
Read the
labels. Determine if
it is flammable or toxic. |
Liquid
products NOT containing chemicals may be diluted with water and
put down the drain.
Liquid products with chemicals should be mixed with kitty
litter, sand, or shredded paper to solidify and then can be
thrown in the trash. |
Carpet
Cleaners |
Read the
labels for disposal instructions. Examples: Resolve, Vanish,
etc. |
Most liquid,
gel and powder water-soluble products can be disposed of down
the drain with running water. Plastic containers should be
tripled rinsed and may be recyclable. |
Carpet
Deodorizers |
Read the
labels for disposal instructions. Examples: Resolve, Vanish,
etc. |
Most liquid,
gel and powder water-soluble products can be disposed of down
the drain with running water. Plastic containers should be
tripled rinsed and may be recyclable. |
Cell Phones |
Cell phone
technology changes almost yearly creating an abundance of 'old'
or 'outdated' cell phones. |
Recycling
cell phones has never been easier, as you can trade them in when
buying a new phone for cash, mail them to multiple online
recycling companies, or donate them.
|
CFL's - Compact
Fluorescent Light Bulbs - Curly Light Bulbs |
These 'curly
light bulbs' contain argon and a small amount of mercury. |
Mercury is
minimal and can be thrown in trash. |
Computers |
CPU's,
Monitors, Peripherals such as printers, scanners, mouse,
speakers, key board.
Laptops, Tablets, Readers, commonly referred to as E-waste |
Computers or
E-waste can be disposed of in the trash. |
CRT's |
Cathode Ray
Tube - used in older computer monitors and TV's. |
If in working
order, check with local organizations that may have a need for
it. The glass typically contains lead and is not recyclable.
This may be thrown in household waste. |
D |
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Darkroom
Chemicals |
Darkroom
chemicals include rapid fixers, developers, toners, washing
agents for developing film.
Read the labels. |
Any chemical
can be 'safe' or 'hazardous' depending on how you use it.
Liquids may be diluted and flushed down the drain or hardened
and placed into the trash.
The exception is the fixer which contains silver. This
should be solidified and placed in the trash NOT the sewer
system. |
Dish Soap |
Use up.
Examples: Dawn, Joy, etc. is water soluble. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed may be recycled. |
Dishwasher
Rinse Agents |
Use up.
Examples: Cascade, Finish etc. is water soluble. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed may be recycled. |
Dishwasher
Soap |
Use up.
Examples: Cascade, Finish etc. is water soluble. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed may be recycled. |
Disinfectants |
Use up.
Examples: Lysol, Clorox. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed may be recycled. |
Drain
Openers/Cleaners |
Use up. Read
Labels to determine chemicals. Examples: Drano, Liquid
Lightning, etc. |
Most liquid,
gel and powder water-soluble household cleaning products can be
disposed of down the drain with running water just like when you
use them. |
Drugs |
Is your
medicine cabinet full of expired drugs or medications you no
longer use? Your medicine is for you. What’s safe for you might
be harmful for someone else. You can dispose of your expired,
unwanted, or unused medicines through a drug take back program —
or you can do it at home. |
Prescription
and over the counter drugs should be disposed of by mixing left
over pills in an unappealing substance (wet coffee grounds, used
kitty litter, etc.) seal substance and drugs in a container and
throw away. |
E |
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Electronic
Devices or E-waste |
CPU's,
Monitors, Peripherals such as printers, scanners, mouse,
speakers, key board.
Laptops, Tablets, and Readers (Kindle, Nook)
are commonly referred to as E-waste |
E-waste can
be thrown in the trash. |
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Fertilizers |
Fertilizer
without pesticides that contain only plant nutrients DO NOT
require special disposal.
Fertilizers with pesticides that are labeled like
pre-emergent weed preventer weed and feed insect control or
disease control. Be
sure to read the labels. |
Dry, granular
fertilizer that does NOT contain pesticides may be placed in the
trash. Liquid
Fertilizer (or plant food) that doesn't contain herbicides,
insecticides, or pesticides may be diluted with water and poured
down the sink.
Fertilizers are intended to be used on the ground, dispose/use
it as directed. |
Filters -
Mechanical |
Used oil
filters can contain up to 10 ounces of used oil.
Opportunities exist for recycled filters (those sent out
to be reclaimed) and purchased at a discount. |
The filter
can be placed into a container to drain the oil and then be
reused or recycled.
Dry up the remaining oil by adding shredded paper, sand, kitty
litter or absorbents. |
Floor
Cleaners |
Examples:
Fabuloso, Lysol, Mop N Glo |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed may be recycled. |
Floor Waxes |
Examples: Mop
and Shine, Armstrong |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed may be recycled. |
Fluorescent
Light Tubes |
Fluorescent
tubes contain mercury making them a hazardous material |
Fluorescent
tubes must be unbroken to be recyclable. |
Freezers |
Freon is a
toxic gas in refrigerators and freezers. If getting a
replacement appliance, ask the business you are purchasing it
from if they take and recycle the old appliance. |
|
Fungicides |
Fungicides,
herbicides and insecticides are all pesticides used in plant
protection. Read the Label for directions. |
Used to
eliminate a fungus, possibly in a garden. Use it all up.
Rinse container thoroughly and throw in trash. |
Furniture
Polish |
Use up.
If aerosol can, buy non-aerosol products. Examples:
Liquid Gold, Pledge, etc. |
Aerosol cans,
use up and throw in trash |
G |
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Gasoline |
Is highly
flammable and extremely toxic. Never pour gasoline down the
drain, on the ground, or in the trash. Improper disposal of
gasoline is a health and safety hazard, and threatens the
environment. |
It should not
be used as a solvent, cleaner, BBQ starter or any non-engine
use. Minimal amounts can be left to evaporate or add kitty
litter or sand to absorb. |
Gasoline Mixed
with Oil |
Is highly
flammable and toxic. |
This mixture
may be added to 10 gallons (or more) of gasoline, the mix ratio
will be minimal and shouldn’t' have any effect. |
Glass &
Window Cleaners |
May contain
alcohol, bleach.
Read labels. Use up. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed may be recycled aerosol
can may go into the trash. |
Glue |
Disposal
depends on the main ingredient.
Read the label. If the glue or adhesive is solvent-based
if needs to be hardened.
If it is water-based, it needs to be solidified. Elmer's
Glue is non-toxic and can just be thrown in the trash. |
To harden
glue or adhesive move the container to a sheltered, secure
outdoor area away from flames, people, or pets. Open the lid and
allow drying. To
solidify, mix with kitty litter, sand or shredded paper.
Throw in trash. |
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Halogen Bulbs |
A halogen
bulb also known as a tungsten halogen, quartz-halogen or quartz
iodine lamp is an incandescent lamp that has a small amount of a
halogen such as iodine or bromine added. |
Can be thrown
into the trash. |
Hand Soap and
Body Wash |
Soaps come in
bars or plastic containers. Examples: Soft soap, Dial, Dove,
etc. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed and may be recycled. |
Hearing Aid
Batteries |
The disposal
of hearing aid batteries depend on the battery and if it
contains mercury. Mercury-free battery options CAN be disposed
in household waste. To determine if your hearing aid batteries
are mercury-free refer to the packaging. If the battery package
does not say “mercury-free” assume it is not, but the mercury is
minimal and can be disposed of in the trash |
May be
disposed in the trash. |
Household
Cleaners |
Most liquid,
gel, pastes, powder type cleaners are water-soluble.
Follow label directions. |
The majority
of cleaning products can be disposed down the drain with running
water. If the
container is plastic, rinse it until there isn't a product
smell. |
I |
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Incandescent
Bulbs |
Does not
contain toxic materials. |
Can be thrown
into the trash. |
Ink
Cartridges |
Most
manufacturers of ink cartridges will accept used ones. |
Register on
line with Office Depot and they will send recycling boxes for
your used cartridges. Free shipping and they will give you an
Office Depot gift card. |
Insecticides |
Insecticides
are poisons. Read the label, many products have different levels
of toxins and are labeled with 'caution', 'warning', 'danger' or
'poison'. Know what you have to determine how to dispose of it.
Examples" Ortho, Spermicide, Seven, etc. |
These are
poisons for insects.
Use the product and then throw in the trash. |
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Kerosene |
Is highly
flammable and extremely toxic. Never pour kerosene down the
drain, on the ground, or in the trash. |
It should not
be used as a solvent, cleaner, BBQ starter or any non-engine
use. Minimal amounts can be left to evaporate or add kitty
litter or sand to absorb. |
L |
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Latex Paint |
Use it up,
dry it up, donate it, and buy only what you need. |
NOT hazardous
and can be safely thrown away after solidifying or hardening.
Liquids are not accepted at Landfills.
Use kitty litter, sand, shredded paper or leave open in a
safe area to naturally harden. |
Laundry
Detergent Cleaners |
Examples:
Tide, ERA, Oxi-Clean.
May be liquid, powder or pods. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed and may be recycled. |
Laundry
Fabric Softeners |
Examples:
Downey, Snuggle, etc.
|
Dryer sheets
may be thrown way.
Liquids may be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic containers should be rinsed and may be recycled. |
Laundry
Pre-Soaks |
Examples:
Oxi-Clean, Borax, etc. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed and may be recycled. |
Laundry Stain
Removers |
Examples:
Spray and Wash, Biz, Clorox etc. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
Plastic bottle should be rinsed and may be recycled. |
Lead Acid
Batteries |
Lead acid
batteries used in Cars, Motorcycles, Boats, Outdoor Power
Equipment, motorized toys. Lead is a toxic heavy metal, contains
acid and could be corrosive. |
|
Lead Paint |
The Federal
Government banned lead-based paint in 1978 and banned mercury as
a paint ingredient in 1990. |
The
requirements for disposal of debris containing lead-based paint
vary depending on the concentration of the lead in the debris or
the building. This
should be done by a professional. |
LED - Light
Bulbs |
LED (light
emitting diode) use significantly less energy than even CFLs,
and do not contain mercury. |
Can be thrown
into the trash. |
Lighter Fluid
(Grills) |
Use the
lighter fluid as it was intended. If you use all of the fluid,
there is no need to take extra measures to dispose of the
container -- it can be discarded with normal waste. Read the
label for recommended disposal options. |
|
Lighter Fluid
(Lighters) Butane |
Use the
lighter fluid as it was intended. If you use all of the fluid,
there is no need to take extra measures to dispose of the
container -- it can be discarded with normal waste. Read the
label for recommended disposal options. |
|
Lithium-Ion
Batteries |
Lithium-Ion
Batteries are rechargeable and commonly used in cell phones,
laptops, power tools, video cameras electronics.
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M |
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Machine Oils
and Lubricants |
This can
include crankcase oil, hydraulic oil, gear lubricant,
transmission fluid, power steering fluid, etc.
Oils never wear out, they just get dirty. |
When
completing home mechanical projects, be sure to drain fluids
into a pan and not into a yard or a drain. |
Medicines |
Is your
medicine cabinet full of expired drugs or medications you no
longer use? Your medicine is for you. What’s safe for you might
be harmful for someone else. You can dispose of your expired,
unwanted, or unused medicines through a drug take back program —
or you can do it at home. |
Prescription
and over the counter drugs should be disposed of by mixing left
over pills in an unappealing substance (wet coffee grounds, used
kitty litter, etc.) seal substance and drugs in a container and
throw away. |
Mercury |
Most
household items that contain mercury are miniscule amounts.
Should you encounter anything over a pea size, leave the
area and call for professional assistance. |
Small mercury
containing items should be sealed in a glass container with the
tope sealed with tape and then placed inside a zip lock bag.
The container should be stored in a cool protected area
to prevent evaporation and breakage. Uncontained mercury vapors
are hazardous. |
Metal Polishes |
Can be
flammable, toxic and possibly corrosive.
Read the label and directions. Use all of the contents. |
Liquid metal
polishes must be solidified using an absorbent material. Pastes
or aerosol cans may be disposed of into household waste. |
Mildew
Remover |
Mold and
mildew removers can contain harmful chemicals. Never mix
products with chemicals. |
Slowly pour
down the drain with large amounts of water.
Aerosol products can go into the trash.
Non-aerosol products should be rinsed and may be
recycled. |
Mothballs |
Mothballs
contain chemicals. Cedar chips could be used to repel moths. |
Wrap the
mothball in a plastic bag and dispose of in your household
trash. |
Motor Oil |
Oil never
wears out, it just gets dirty. |
Be sure when
doing mechanical projects at home to have a drip pan for all
fluids. |
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Nickel Cadmium
Batteries or NiCad Batteries -
Rechargeable |
Nickel
Cadmium Batteries are rechargeable and commonly used in cell
phones, laptops, powered tools, electronics, toys, hobby
vehicles, medical equipment. Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal and
should not be incinerated; it will produce toxic cadmium vapors.
|
|
Nickel Metal
Hydride Batteries -
Rechargeable |
Nickel Metal
Hydride Batteries are rechargeable and commonly used in cell
phones, laptops, power tools, cameras electronics and hobby
vehicles. |
|
O |
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Oil Based Paint |
Oil-based
paints such as enamels, varnishes, shellacs, lacquers, stains,
and sealers. Oil-based paint contains pigments and petroleum
products that can be dangerous to humans and the environment.
The vapors from oil-based paint can be especially noxious.
Always use oil based paint in a well vented area.
Use up the contents, or donate to an organization. |
If minimal
left, open the lid to dry and harden. Once hardened it may be
thrown in the trash.
If a lot of paint left add sand, kitty litter, shredded paper to
solidify and then throw in the trash. |
Oven Cleaners |
May have
chemicals and fumes.
Read the label.
Purchase alternate cleaners that do not have chemicals. |
Aerosol cans,
use up and throw in trash.
Or solidify by adding sand, kitty litter before throwing
away. |
P |
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Paint Brush
Cleaners |
Paint
strippers and thinners such as turpentine or mineral spirits
contain chemicals and are flammable. Never place in a plastic
container. Use in a
well vented area. |
Solidify the
liquid with an absorbent such as kitty litter, sand or shredded
paper. Then throw it
in the trash. |
Paint Latex |
Use it up,
dry it up, donate it, and buy only what you need. |
NOT hazardous
and can be safely thrown away after solidifying or hardening.
Liquids are not accepted at Landfills.
Use kitty litter, sand, shredded paper or leave open in a
safe area to naturally harden. |
Paint Lead
Based |
The Federal
Government banned lead-based paint in 1978 and banned mercury as
a paint ingredient in 1990. |
The
requirements for disposal of debris containing lead-based paint
vary depending on the concentration of the lead in the debris or
the building. This
should be done by a professional. |
Paint Oil Based |
Oil-based
paints are enamels, varnishes, shellacs, lacquers, stains and
sealers. Oil-based paint contains pigments and petroleum
products that can be dangerous to humans and the environment.
The vapors from oil-based paint can be especially noxious.
Always use oil based paint in a well vented area.
Use up the contents, or donate to an organization. |
If minimal
left, open the lid to dry and harden. Once hardened it may be
thrown in the trash.
If a lot of paint left add sand, kitty litter, shredded paper to
solidify and then throw in the trash. |
Paint Solvents |
Paint
strippers and thinners such as turpentine or mineral spirits
contain chemicals and are flammable. Never place in a plastic
container. Use in a
well vented area. |
Solidify the
liquid with an absorbent such as kitty litter, sand or shredded
paper. Then throw it
in the trash. |
Paint Stripper |
Paint
strippers and thinners such as turpentine or mineral spirits
contain chemicals and are flammable. Never place in a plastic
container. Use in a
well vented area. |
Solidify the
liquid with an absorbent such as kitty litter, sand or shredded
paper. Then throw it
in the trash. |
Paint Thinner |
Paint
strippers and thinners such as turpentine or mineral spirits
contain chemicals and are flammable. Never place in a plastic
container. Use in a
well vented area. |
Solidify the
liquid with an absorbent such as kitty litter, sand or shredded
paper. Then throw it
in the trash. |
Pesticides |
Although
toxicity varies from one pesticide to the next, all pesticides
should be treated with caution.
Purchased only what is needed.
Read the label. |
If you end up
with excess pesticide concentrate, dilute it as directed on the
label; then apply it to an area listed on the label. You can
dispose of excess pesticide mix by applying it to an area listed
on the label. Do not apply more than is recommended. |
Pool Chemicals |
Read the
label. Pool chemicals may include: Chlorine, calcium or sodium
hypochlorite, microbial pesticides, muriatic acid, hydrochloric
acid, sodium bicarbonate, shock (a concentrated form of
chlorine) etc. When storing pool chemicals, it is extremely
important to keep them dry and not allow them to get hot.
Moisture and heat are both elements that can trigger bad
reactions, such as fires and toxic fumes.
|
Never mix
chemicals. Small amounts may be diluted and flushed down the
drain. Large amounts
may be donated. Solidify chemicals with sawdust, sand, or
shredded paper, throw in trash. |
Prescription
Drugs |
Is your
medicine cabinet full of expired drugs or medications you no
longer use? Your medicine is for you. What’s safe for you might
be harmful for someone else. You can dispose of your expired,
unwanted, or unused medicines through a drug take back program —
or you can do it at home. |
Prescription
and over the counter drugs should be disposed of by mixing left
over pills in an unappealing substance (wet coffee grounds, used
kitty litter, etc.) seal substance and drugs in a container and
throw away. |
Propane Tanks |
Do not empty
propane tank by letting the gas escape via the valve.
Propane venting can cause an area to become flammable
very quickly.
Propane is heavier than the normal air an can collect at your
feet or in a low area |
Places that
sell propane exchange a tank for a filled tank. |
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Rechargeable
Batteries |
Lithium-Ion
Batteries are rechargeable and commonly used
in cell phones, laptops, power tools, video cameras electronics.
Nickel Cadmium Batteries are rechargeable and
commonly used in cell phones, laptops, powered tools,
electronics, toys, hobby vehicles, medical equipment. Cadmium is
a toxic heavy metal and should not be incinerated; it will
produce toxic cadmium vapors.
Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries are rechargeable
and commonly used in cell phones, laptops, power tools, cameras
electronics and hobby vehicles. |
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Rodenticides |
These are
poisons to kill mice, rats, ants, roaches, etc.
Read all label directions. Do not dispose of any pest
poisons in drains.
Wear disposable gloves and wash hands after handling any
poisons. |
Old, or left
over poisons should be placed into a sealed container that has a
cap, and then placed into a zip locked bag before throwing it
into the trash. |
Roofing
Shingles |
May contain
adhesives, tar residue, and may contain non-friable asbestos |
May be
disposed of in trash or taken to a landfill. |
Roofing Tar |
Working
around roofing tar can put you in close proximity to hazardous
fumes. The fumes that are emitted from roofing tar are poisonous
and should not be ingested. Therefore, when working around
roofing tar, make sure that you try not to inhale any of the
fumes. Use the
entire product. |
May be
disposed of in trash or taken to a landfill after harden |
Rust or
Corrosion Preventative |
Read the
label. Petroleum derived rust preventatives are handled
differently than bio-based products. |
Bio-based
products and water soluble rust preventatives are biodegradable
and not hazardous.
They may be thrown into the trash. |
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Sanitizers |
May contain
bleach, alcohol, etc. Read the label. |
Water-soluble
products may be diluted and flushed down the drain. |
Sealants |
Variety of
products for concrete, walls, roof, tires, etc. |
Read the
label for disposal instructions.
Many sealants may be hardened and then thrown into the
trash. |
Shellacs |
A shellac
finish has been used by woodworkers since the early 1800s, is
non-toxic, and can be used as a sealer before applying a stain. |
Read the
label for disposal instructions.
Many types of shellac may be hardened and then thrown
into the trash. |
Sink Cleaners |
Use up.
Examples: Comet, Ajax, is water soluble. |
Contents may
be diluted with water and go down the drain.
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Solvents |
Read the
label if it includes words such as flammable, combustible,
caution, warning, danger, or contains petroleum distillates or
aromatic hydrocarbons take caution. |
Flammable
materials should be mixed with sand or kitty litter before
throwing in the trash. |
Spot Removers |
Read the
labels for disposal instructions. Examples: Shout, Resolve etc. |
Most liquid,
gel and powder water-soluble products can be disposed of down
the drain with running water. Plastic containers should be
tripled rinsed and may be recyclable. |
Spray Cans |
Try to use
non-aerosol products. Drain all aerosol canisters. DO this by
turning them upside down and spraying them into an absorbent
material like a paper town, rag or a sponge.
Once the can has lost all of its pressure, wrap it in
several layers of newspaper and throw it out with regular
household trash.
Examples: Hair Spray, Disinfectant Spray, Oven Cleaner, etc. |
Empty cans
may be thrown in the trash. |
Stainless
Steel Cleaner |
May contain
toxic chemicals.
Some alternate cleaners include vinegar (may leave streaks) or
olive oil ( buff after using with clean cotton towel) Examples,
Wieman, Affresh, etc. |
Liquids may
be diluted and go down your drain.
Pastes may be thrown in the trash. |
Stove
Cleaners |
Stove
cleaners come in a variety of options, glass top stoves,
stainless tops, flat surface, removable burners, etc.
These cleaners may contain toxic chemicals.
Please read the label. |
Liquids may
be diluted and go down your drain.
Pastes may be thrown in
the trash. |
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Televisions |
If you
purchase a new TV, check with the store to see if they will
remove and take your old set.
If in working order, try to donate it to an organization. |
TV's can be
thrown away in the trash. |
Thermometers |
Thermometers
may be mercury free and would NOT be hazardous. To check look
for a liquid. If it uses a metallic strip or coil to measure
temperature (like meat thermometers) it is not a mercury
thermometer. If there is a liquid but it is not silver, then it
is not a mercury thermometer.
Read the label. |
Small mercury
containing items should be sealed in a glass container with the
tope sealed with tape and then placed inside a zip lock bag.
The container should be stored in a cool protected area
to prevent evaporation and breakage. Uncontained mercury vapors
are hazardous. |
Thermostats |
Thermostats
can be mercury free. Electronic and magnetic snap switch
thermostats don't contain mercury. If 1 or more glass bulbs are
inside, then it contains mercury.
Each tilt switch contains 3 to 6 grams and a thermostat
may have up to six tilt switches. |
Small mercury
containing items should be sealed in a glass container with the
tope sealed with tape and then placed inside a zip lock bag.
The container should be stored in a cool protected area
to prevent evaporation and breakage. Uncontained mercury vapors
are hazardous. |
Toilet Bowl
Cleaners |
Toilet bowl
cleaners may contain chlorine or acids.
Read the label.
Examples are The Works, Lysol, Clorox, etc. |
Pour down
toilet to dispose of. Rinse containers well and throw in the
trash. |
Toner
Cartridges |
Most
manufacturers of ink cartridges will accept used ones. |
Register on
line with Office Depot and they will send recycling boxes for
your used cartridges. Free shipping and they will give you an
Office Depot gift card. |
Transmission
Fluids |
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Turpentine |
Paint
strippers and thinners such as turpentine or mineral spirits
contain chemicals and are flammable. Never place in a plastic
container. Use in a
well vented area. |
Solidify the
liquid with an absorbent such as kitty litter, sand or shredded
paper. Then throw it
in the trash. |
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Upholstery
Cleaners |
Read the
labels for disposal instructions. Examples: Scotch guard, Bissel
etc. |
Most liquid,
gel and powder water-soluble products can be disposed of down
the drain with running water. Plastic containers should be
tripled rinsed and may be recyclable. |
Used Gasoline |
Is highly
flammable and extremely toxic. Never pour gasoline down the
drain, on the ground, or in the trash. Improper disposal of
gasoline is a health and safety hazard, and threatens the
environment. |
It should not
be used as a solvent, cleaner, BBQ starter or any non-engine
use. Minimal amounts can be left to evaporate or add kitty
litter or sand to absorb. |
Used Oil |
When draining
oil from a car or lawn mower, etc. use a drip pan to catch the
used oil. |
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Varnish |
Read the
label. Minimal amounts can be left open to dry up. Brush or
spray finish onto cardboard or scrap wood, or mix it with kitty
litter spread out to dry. Once the finish is dry and solid, it
is landfill safe and can go out with the household trash. |
May be thrown
in the trash, after hardening. |
Weed Killer |
Herbicides,
also commonly known as weed killers, are chemical substances
used to control unwanted plants. Herbicides per the EPA are also
considered pesticides. Examples include Round Up, Ortho,
Spectricide, etc. |
If you end up
with excess weed killer, follow directions on the label and
apply it. |
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Wood Oils &
Stains |
Read the
label. Minimal amounts can be left open to dry up. Brush or
spray finish onto cardboard or scrap wood, or mix it with kitty
litter spread out to dry. Once the finish is dry and solid, it
is landfill safe and can go out with the household trash. |
May be thrown
in the trash, after hardening. |
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