Common household products containing hazardous materials can pose a threat to people and the environment, especially when handled or disposed of improperly. Whenever possible, buy the smallest amount of material needed to get the job done or use a less-hazardous alternative in place of the hazardous product.

If you can't use up a product, donate it to someone who can use it. In many cases, even products that have been stored for a few years can still be safely used according to label directions. In addition, some wastes such as used motor oils, solvents and car batteries can be regenerated or recycled.

For more information about how to get rid of some of the more common household hazardous waste, visit our recycling page.

Other Resources

• Using safer cleaning products can help protect your family’s health and the environment. U.S. EPA’s Design for the Environment (DfE) Program allows safer products to carry the DfE label, through its Safer Product Labeling Program. The DfE mark helps consumers quickly identify and choose products that can help protect the environment and are safer for families. 
• Green Seal is a non-profit organization that uses science-based programs to empower consumers, purchasers and companies to create a more sustainable world. Green Seal develops life cycle-based sustainability standards for products, services and companies and offer third-party certification for those that meet the criteria in the standard.
• Ten Tips to Protect Children from Pesticide and Lead Poisonings around the Home
• Protecting Pets - Learn how to protect your pets from pests and potential pesticide risks by following product label directions and understanding the precautions.
• What is a Pesticide? - This document explains what is and what is not a pesticide.
• National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) - This website provides pesticide-related information and a toll-free number for more information.
• Controlling Pests - Learn how to reduce the need for pesticides and how to use pesticides safely.