Household Hazardous Waste

Improper disposal of household hazardous waste poses a threat to human health and the environment. Hazardous waste should not be put in the trash, down the drain, into storm drains or burned.

What do I do with household hazardous waste?

 

TAKE it to a Metro Transfer Station

TAKE it to a Metro Hazardous Waste Roundup Event

Bring these kinds of wastes to Metro’s roundup events or permanent facilities for disposal:

  • Hazardous Wastepaints and stains
  • pool and spa chemicals
  • pesticides and poisons
  • automotive products (motor oil, antifreeze)
  • thinners and solvents
  • household cleaners and disinfectants
  • batteries (some rechargeable batteries can be recycled)
  • art and hobby chemicals
  • aerosol spray products
  • sharps (medical syringes)  format-pdf
  • mercury-containing thermometers and thermostats

Learn how to prepare hazardous materials to transport properly.

 

How do I know a product is hazardous?

Read the label. Look for the following warning words on product labels:

  • danger—highly toxic, corrosive or extremely flammable.
  • caution—moderately or slightly toxic.
  • warning—moderately or slightly toxic.
  • poison—highly toxic, corrosive or extremely flammable.
  • toxic—capable of causing injury or death through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. Some toxic substances cause cancer, genetic mutations, and fetal harm.
  • flammable/combustible—can be easily set on fire.
  • corrosive—chemical action can burn and destroy living tissues or other materials when brought in contact.

        Household Toxic Trash Alternatives flyer format-pdf



How do I reduce my use of hazardous products around my home?

  • Select safer alternative products whenever you can. Choose to use less-toxic products in your home and garden. Learn about alternative garden and yard care methods. Request a copy of these publications: "Greener Cleaners" recipe booklet, "It's easy to Compost!"  and/or "Simple Steps to a Healthy Lawn and Garden." 
  • Metro's Hazardless Home Handbook
  • Metro's Household Hazardous Waste Guide
  • Buy only what you need. If you need to buy products that are hazardous, buy only what you will use in a reasonable period of time.