Household Hazardous Waste

Household hazardous waste (HHW) is the term for common household chemicals and substances for which the owner no longer has a use. Exhibiting many of the same dangerous characteristics as fully regulated hazardous waste, HHW is not regulated by the EPA. Due to its potential for reactivity, ignitability, corrosivity, toxicity, and persistence, many states and local solid waste management departments have created and funded Household Hazardous Waste facilities to offer safe disposal options for homeowners. Examples include drain cleaners, latex and oil paint, motor oil, antifreeze, fuel, poisons, pesticides, herbicides and rodenticides, fluorescent lamps, lamp ballasts, smoke detectors, medical waste, some types of cleaning chemicals, and consumer electronics (such as televisions, computers, and cell phones).