Most people have household hazardous wastes in their homes: in basements and garages, under kitchen and bathroom sinks, and in toolsheds. Leftover household products that contain corrosive, toxic, ignitable or reactive ingredients are considered to be household hazardous waste.
Examples include:
- Automotive fluids (antifreeze and motor oil)
- Category 1 liquids (oil based paints, solvents, thinners, stains, gasoline) etc.
- Pesticides and herbicides
NEVER pour these wastes into sinks or toilets, down storm drains or on the ground. The chemicals can end up in local waterways and drinking water.
The CVWMA Recycling Wizard is an easy tool to use when seeking out places in your locality to properly dispose of hazardous chemicals in your home such as kerosene, fuel oil, oil based paints, degreasers, etc.
Check the CVWMA calendar of events to see if a household hazardous waste recycling event is scheduled near you.
Other resources for more information:
VA Department of Environmental Quality- HHW
US EPA – Household Hazardous Waste