A product is likely in the Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) category if the label bears the words Caution, Flammable, Danger, Hazard or similar words. These are products that can cause harm to humans, animals or the environment and must be treated with care. It is against the law to dispose of these products in the trash or recycling.
Disposal
Contact your waste hauler or go to www.hhw.org to learn about the proper disposal of these and other common household products requiring special care:
- Fluorescent light bulbs
- Pesticides
- Cleaning chemicals and solvents
- Batteries (household and automotive)
- Paints and paint thinners
- Medicines
- Motor oil and filters
- Toxic spills and clean ups greater than one gallon
- Electronics
Clean Up
To clean up toxic spills like motor oil, paint and antifreeze, use an absorbent material, such as kitty litter. Clean up spills and dispose of soiled absorbent material promptly.
Alternatives
Use a less toxic alternative product whenever possible.