How to safely dispose of household products when some cannot be thrown in the trash. Periodically check your garage, garden sheds, under sinks, and other storage areas for used items that need to be tossed.
Batteries
Always return car batteries to whoever sold you the new one. See 10 Things You Should Recycle for disposing of household batteries.
Automotive
Brake fluid
Pour kitty litter into the extra fluid and leave the lid off. It should evaporate in a couple of days. Then dispose of in the trash. Always check the label for recommended disposal.
Used antifreeze
Check with automotive stores, local government, or recycling centers for recommendations. Earth911 has a search for local facilities that accept antifreeze. Many of these facilities will take other used automotive fluids. Do not mix antifreeze with other liquids.
Medication
See Disposal of Medications for the how-to.
Paint
Latex paint can be recycled-ask family, friends, and local organizations if they want it. If not, see if you have a local Paint Care or Earth911 facility. Your last option is to dry out your paint. If you have a small amount, open the lid and let it dry. For more significant amounts, you will need to add kitty litter or something else that will absorb the paint. Most waste facilities will allow you to toss out dried-up paint (check with yours). Leave the lid off the can when disposing of it.
Garden
Never pour unused garden products down drains, toilets, or storm drains. Never dump in ditches.
Ask neighbors and family if they can use the remains.
Mix only the amount of pesticides or herbicides you are sure you will use, eliminating leftovers.
Use precautions when handling pesticides. Use the same recommended protective gear while disposing of as when using the product.
Pesticides
Check out National Pesticide Collection Centers for a location near you. AnEarth911 facility may also accept pesticides. See Disposal of Pesticides for more information. Always keep pesticides in their original containers and never reuse the container. Rinse the container–away from storm drains– before tossing it in the trash.
Herbicides
Follow the directions on the label or call the toll-free number. Most empty herbicide containers can be tossed in the trash. Concentrated herbicides will need to have the container rinsed three times. Fill the container 1/4 full of water. Drain the rinse water out into a tank sprayer. Repeat two more times. Spray the contents of the sprayer in an area where herbicides won’t harm-such as the area you used it on.
Household cleaners
Most household products can be poured down the drain. Items such as furniture polishes, drain cleaners, and oven cleaners, may need special handling. Check out the label for disposal instructions or call the toll-free number. See if you can recycle the container-call recycle center, waste disposal service or your city office for information. Refer to How to Dispose of Household Cleaners for more information.
Propane tanks
Check if the store you purchased it from has a take-back program. Call your waste disposal service for rules associated with pressurized tanks. Call local recycling centers and home hazard waste facilities.
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