What is Household Hazardous Waste?
Household hazardous wastes (HHW) are products or chemicals that are flammable, toxic, corrosive, or chemically reactive. Look for labels such as: Warning, Caution, Danger, Poisonous, Toxic, or Flammable. Never put these items in the trash or pour chemicals down the drain. When improperly managed, hazardous wastes can pollute the environment, start fires at solid waste facilities or in homes, and cause serious injuries.
Always carefully read the label and follow all directions for using and storing chemicals and other hazardous materials. Always wear gloves when handling chemicals, including common household cleaning products. Keep items in their original containers, and avoid mixing chemicals together. Do not use chemicals for purposes other than their intended uses.
How To Store Household Hazardous Waste
Care must be taken to properly use, store, and dispose of hazardous products in order to not harm people, pets, and the environment. Children are particularly vulnerable to HHW exposure. Always carefully read the label and follow all directions for using and storing chemicals and other hazardous materials. Store hazardous chemicals in a locked cabinet or in an elevated location, away from furnaces, electrical panels, or other heat sources. Always keep products in their original container. Safely dispose of any unwanted medications, or other hazardous items, as soon as possible.
Safer Alternatives to Household Hazardous Waste
Many alternatives exist for common household cleaning products (i.e., baking soda, vinegar, borax, lemon juice, etc). Learn more about alternatives for a more Eco Friendly Home.
UCRRA Safe Disposal Programs
UCRRA offers four Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Events every year as a safe, convenient, and FREE way for Ulster County residents to dispose of hazardous materials. Participants must be a resident of Ulster County, and the waste must be generated in a home, not affiliated with any commercial business, nonprofit, or institution. Participants must register to secure an appointment on collection days. Registration is quick, easy, and guides participants with everything they need to know about the collection events.
Immediate Disposal Needs
If you have immediate disposal needs, or if you have waste in large quantities that can not be accepted at HHW events, contact a hazardous waste collection company to request a quote for safe disposal.