Household Hazardous Waste
What can be recycled?
Fluorescent light bulbs and tubes, glues and adhesives, cleaning fluids, oil-based paints, paint thinners and stains, lawn and garden chemicals, pool and spa supplies, propane and butane tanks, and automobile fluids
Why it wants to be recycled
Leftover household products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable, or reactive ingredients are considered household hazardous waste (HHW). Improper disposal of HHW can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health.
How to recycle it
Most communities have HHW drop-off locations or schedule special collection days. Check with your local solid waste agency about collection events and local drop-off centers.
What does recycled hazardous waste become?
Certain materials — like cleaning solvents — can be cleaned and reused. Alternatively, some hazardous waste can be blended and used as a fuel ingredient, or treated and then used as an ingredient in a product such as fertilizer.
Did you know?
Leftover household products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable or reactive ingredients are considered household hazardous waste.
Mythbuster
MYTH: Since Federal law allows disposal of household hazardous waste in the trash, it is okay to put it there.
FACT: Although the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets national standards, states often have more stringent regulations. Call your local solid waste agency for instructions on the proper disposal of household hazardous wastes.
Super Sorter
Recycle different kinds of materials. Sort fast and give trash a new life!
Recycling Journey
See how recycled materials can be transformed into new, exciting and useful things.