How to Dispose of Household Chemicals

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Household cleaners and chemicals can become hazardous waste if they are not used properly or are not used up entirely. Household chemicals should not be thrown in the garbage or disposed of down the sink because of the possibility of contaminating the ground or water systems. Here are some helpful tips for disposing of household chemicals that will help protect the environment.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Check to see if your area has a local waste facility. Many areas offer regular pick-ups, drop-off locations or scheduled dates for disposal.

Step2

Contact a local garage to see if they collect old gas or oil for disposal.

Step3

Purchase additives which can be added to gas to prolong the amount of time it can stay in a gas-powered tool or container. Two gallons or less of old gas, without an additive, can be added to your vehicle's gas tank.

Step4

Donate old computers, televisions or monitors. Many electronics have mercury, lead and other harmful chemicals that make them dangerous if disposed of carelessly. Some computer manufacturers and stores will provide disposal when making a new purchase.

Step5

Return an old car battery to the store when purchasing a new one. These are often recycled to prevent the pollution of the lead battery acid.

Step6

Call (800) 8-BATTERY to find a local recycling facility to dispose of NiCad batteries.

Step7

Buy only small amounts of household cleaners that can be used quickly and completely. Anything listed as poisonous can be toxic to the environment.

Tips & Warnings

Purchase rechargeable batteries to eliminate waste.
Make some homemade alternatives to popular household chemicals.
Store any chemicals in their original containers.
Never mix household products because the ingredients can cause unexpected results and become even more dangerous or harmful.