Whether you’re getting rid of old batteries or removing automotive fluids from your property, you need responsible solutions for disposing of your household hazardous waste. Not all household waste can be disposed of in the garbage with your regular trash. There are some products and materials that must be handled differently because it can be dangerous if they end up in your local landfill.
As one of the most experienced and knowledgeable waste management companies in the industry, Rumpke feels it’s our responsibility to ensure homeowners understand the best methods for hazardous trash removal.
The Most Common Types of Household Hazardous Waste
Household cleaners
Liquids and solvents such as toilet bowl cleaner, shower and tile spray, carpet cleaner, and rust remover are considered hazardous. Rumpke does not accept liquid waste, so it is always advisable to review the guidelines of your local solid waste districts to determine the best disposal options in your area.
Batteries
Lithium-Ion batteries should not be discarded in your regular recycling or trash. These batteries are highly combustible and can pose serious danger to waste and recycling workers as well as the motoring public. Please contact your local solid waste district to learn about proper disposal procedures in your area.
Automotive fluids
Auto fluids, including antifreeze, fluids, motor oil, oil filters, gasoline, polish, and waxes can’t go in the garbage. As noted earlier, Rumpke does not accept liquid waste. It’s important to note that these items can’t be flushed down the storm drain or into a septic tank, either. Please contact your local solid waste district for disposal options in your area.
Paint products
Both oil-based and latex paint are toxic when improperly discarded. Different areas of the country enforce specific disposal requirements to protect the environment and surrounding communities. If you’re throwing out spray paint containers, popular craft chalk paint, wood sealant, or wood stains, you should also be careful to follow your local solid waste authority guidelines.
Yard products
In most communities, getting rid of yard waste in a dumpster or trash container is prohibited due to potential damage to native plants, the possibility of lowering soil quality, and the risk of spreading invasive plant species. It’s important to remember that yard waste can also be considered chemical waste if it has been exposed to toxins like pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer, and insecticides. Check with your local solid waste district to learn about the yard waste disposal options in your area.
Miscellaneous products
There are a variety of other objects that are best left out of the garbage. These items include, but are not limited to:
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CFL light bulbs and fluorescent lights
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Sharp syringes and needles
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Propane tanks
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Swimming pool chemicals
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Thermostats and thermometers
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Asbestos
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Corrosive materials, such as sulfuric acid
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E-waste, such as televisions, laptops, and cell phones
What Are the Best Disposal Methods for Hazardous Waste?
Chemicals and materials that can affect the environment or waste employees who may come in contact with them need to be carefully managed. While many traditional waste management programs can’t accommodate hazardous items, there are options for the safe disposal of high-risk items:
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Household items including cleaning chemicals and automotive fluids can usually be safely discarded in your community. Contact your local solid waste district to identify drop-off locations.
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Batteries are often collected by specialty recyclers. Check for non-profits and collection facilities in your area.
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Many municipalities support yard cleanup by providing brush collection or supporting controlled burns of organic debris. Check with your local community to confirm timeframes and limitations that apply to your area.
What are the four ways to reduce the use of hazardous materials?
It’s increasingly important for communities to reduce solid waste and improve their efforts to help the environment. Residential and commercial customers alike can benefit from using fewer hazardous materials and replacing toxic substances with those that are more environmentally friendly.
Rumpke is dedicated to helping our local communities thrive. These four tips will help you better manage hazardous waste:
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Use fewer hazardous waste materials in general by opting for more natural products. Once cleaned, packaging for natural materials can safely be processed through the Rumpke recycling program.
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Try to use fewer single-use products and opt for reusable items, like rechargeable batteries.
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Look for ways to reuse products as much as possible, rather than throwing them into your trash bin. Check local websites or social media pages to see if you can donate certain materials or products rather than tossing them completely.
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Identify which items are acceptable for recycling. Choose to use products and packaging that’s easily recycled to limit waste.
Trust Rumpke for Non-Hazardous Waste Removal & Recycling
In addition to non-hazardous trash removal, Rumpke offers single-stream recycling service to make it easy for residential and commercial businesses to optimize their waste management. If you are interested in setting up any of Rumpke’s services, please fill out our service request form.
