Not ready to dispose of certain items just yet? While you wait for a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection event or your next trip to a HHW drop center, proper storage can help prevent spills, accidents, and unnecessary exposure. Keep these simple tips in mind.
Keep items in their original containers. Labels provide important information about what’s inside and how it should be handled. Avoid pouring materials into different containers, which can lead to confusion or unsafe mixing.
Store HHW away from heat and direct sunlight. Place items in a cool, dry area like a garage, shed, or basement. Heat and sunlight can cause containers to break down or increase pressure inside sealed products.
Keep out of reach of children and pets. Store materials on high shelves or in a secure cabinet whenever possible. Even small amounts of certain products can be harmful if touched or ingested.
Check for leaks or damage. If a container is cracked or leaking, place it inside a secondary container or tray to prevent spills until it can be safely disposed of.
Taking a few extra precautions now can make disposal safer, easier, and more efficient when you’re ready to bring items to a collection point. Questions about how to dispose of common household hazardous waste items in your community? Call your local solid waste management authority.
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