Household Toxics

Toxic Household Products 

Got Household Hazardous Waste? 

Toxic household products can lurk in many corners of our homes—pesticides in the garden shed, motor oil in the garage, paint cans in the basement, worn out fluorescent bulbs and chemical cleaners under the sink…the average household contains 3 to 10 gallons of household toxics! When these products are left over, unwanted or unusable, they turn into potentially harmful waste, also known as Household Hazardous Waste (HHW). 

Obvious Toxics 

It is easy to imagine why certain household toxics—for example a bottle of weed killer or a canister of diesel fuel—might pose a danger to our families and the environment. Inhaling fumes and skin contact can damage our health, especially that of our children. Throwing these products into the trash or pouring them down the sink or into a storm drain pollutes our soil, groundwater, rivers and bay, and can harm wildlife.  

Hidden Toxics 

Other household hazardous waste is less obvious in its toxicity. For example, electronics such as computers and cell phones, batteries, fluorescent light bulbs and thermostats are safe while in use, but turn into toxic waste when discarded. The reason is that they contain heavy metals like mercury and cadmium, and other harmful chemicals that are released into the environment when these products are crushed in the landfill. 

Never dispose of Household Hazardous Waste in the garbage, sink or a storm drain! Instead take these items to one of SVSWA’s facilities for safe disposal or recycling. Follow this link for a list of Household Hazardous Waste materials and where to take them.

Protect yourself and the environment: avoid hazardous products and choose less toxic alternatives instead! 

Navigational links: 

HHW materials and where to take them 

Less Toxic Alternatives