Resource Guide on Houshold Hazardous Waste Management

RESOURCE GUIDE
ON HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS
WASTE MANAGEMENT
July 1996

Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet
Division of Waste Management
Local Planning and Assistance Section
14 Reilly Road
Frankfort, KY 40601
(502) 564-6716

Introduction

The purpose of the Resource Guide on Household Hazardous Waste Management is to provide guidance and information concerning proper waste management practices for household products that contain hazardous chemicals.

The Resource Guide on Household Hazardous Waste Management consists of the following seven sections:

Section 1- provides an overview of potential problems created by improper disposal and introduces proper management and disposal techniques.

Section 2- shows how to be a wise consumer by decreasing the amount of household hazardous waste products purchased.

Section 3- shows how to reduce the use of household hazardous products by relying on alternative non-hazardous product substitutes. This section also outlines proper handling and disposal methods.

Section 4- is a quick and easy reference guide for a variety of household hazardous products, including proper disposal and less toxic alternatives.

Section 5- consists of suggested safety guidelines and procedures for purchasing, using, storing and disposing of household products containing hazardous chemicals.

Section 6- offers suggestions for public education programs about household hazardous waste management.

Section 7- lists resources used in compiling this guide book.

Understanding Household Hazardous Waste

Many household products contain chemicals that when discarded contribute to the contamination of natural resources including water supplies. It has been estimated that in an average city of 100,000 residents, 3.75 tons of toilet bowl cleaner, 13.75 tons of liquid household cleaners and 3.44 tons of used motor oil are discharged into city drains each month. And those figures do not reflect the large quantities of household hazardous waste "disposed" in backyards or in septic tanks.

Nearly all households generate hazardous wastes. Everyday personal care products like nail polish and remover, spot removers, moth balls, shoe polish and even some medicines produce potentially hazardous wastes when they are thrown out. Other examples include pest strips, pesticides, drain and oven cleaners, furniture polish and wax, paints, stains, wood preservatives, used motor oil and antifreeze.

Generally, a substance is considered hazardous if it can catch fire, react or explode when mixed with other substances, or is corrosive or toxic. This terminology on hazardous substances is more specifically defined as follows:

Corrosive- a chemical, or its vapors, that can cause deterioration or irreversible alteration in body tissues at the site of contact, and deteriorate or wear away the surface of a material.

Flammable- can be ignited under almost all temperature conditions.

Irritant- causes soreness or inflammation of the skin, eyes, mucous membranes or respiratory system. Household hazardous products and their containers need to be properly disposed to minimize potential contamination of groundwater supplies. Kentucky's groundwater serves as the drinking water resource for 85 percent of the state's rural population.

Toxic- may cause injury or death upon ingestion, absorption or inhalation.

To protect groundwater resources, the state enacted stringent design standards for all contained landfills operating after July 1, 1995. Designs include impermeable clay liners, leachate collection systems and groundwater monitoring systems. Since all operating landfills meet these stringent standards, household hazardous waste can be disposed with other household garbage. However, household hazardous waste products should be recycled or composted whenever possible.

This guide outlines several opportunities for households to prevent environmental and public health problems due to improper disposal of household hazardous products. Proper household hazardous waste management practices include: using non-hazardous alternative products; purchasing limited quantities of products containing hazardous substances; participating in waste exchange programs; recycling and composting; and preparing household hazardous waste products for landfilling.

Consumer Information

Being a wise consumer can decrease the amount of household hazardous waste you must deal with. Below are some suggestions to assist you:

Avoid buying products that contain toxic materials.

Be alert to labels. Words such as "danger," "poison," "warning" and "caution" indicate that a product is harmful. "Non-toxic" typically means a product is safe for humans, but may not be safe for the environment. Other warning signals include "do not get in contact with eyes," "do not swallow," "avoid inhalation of vapors" and "use in well-ventilated area."

Ask your local merchants about non-toxic alternatives to toxic household items and use them.

Check with your local library, bookstore or the Kentucky Division of Waste Management, 14 Reilly Road, Frankfort, KY 40601 at (Phone: 502/564-6716) for guidelines containing non-toxic household tips.

For products containing toxic substances, purchase only the amount you can use at one time. If you have leftover materials, ask neighbors if they can use them or donate them to a non-profit group or theater group.

Dispose of product containers properly, according to your community's policy on household hazardous waste disposal. Product labels may also include specific disposal instructions.

Check with your local chamber of commerce or county/state environmental agency to see if your town sponsors periodic household hazardous waste collection days or has a household hazardous waste collection station. On collection days, qualified professionals collect hazardous wastes at a central location to ensure safe waste disposal. A household hazardous waste collection station is generally staffed by individuals trained in the handling, storage and disposal of these wastes.

Read The Label Before Using

When consumers purchase household products, such as corrosive toilet cleaners and ignitable paint thinners, they may not think about the hazardous substances contained in these products or their pollution potential when improperly managed or disposed. Therefore, consumers are encouraged to read product labels and purchase household products with less or non-hazardous ingredients or use safer substitutes.

In the "old days" people had to deal with many of the same types of dirt, grease and stains found today. They would clean things with products found around the home, which were usually much less toxic than those used today. A basic difference between the cleaners of yesterday and those of today is a little "elbow grease." Safer substitutes may require more energy from the user, but using alternative home cleaners, disinfectants and polishes can drastically reduce the amount of hazardous products used in the home. Substitutes can also save money. For example, instead of buying air fresheners, open windows when possible to air things out. Use baking soda in odor-producing areas. Recipes using vinegar, bleach or baking soda serve to clean many things around the home. Local county extension agents should be contacted for the publication Hazardous Household Substances: Alternatives That Are Relatively Free of Toxic Effects. This publication contains various recipes for cleaners that can be made from relatively toxic-free products.

When purchasing household products that contain hazardous substances, carefully consider how to use the products safely. Purchase only the amount needed for the task. When unused portions remain, consider recycling or reusing them when possible, and disposing in a way that will not pose a risk to you, your home or farmstead, or the environment. A few simple management principles apply in every situation:

Do not use hazardous products within 150 feet of any well, spring, sinkhole or stream, even if all your spills and drips will be contained.

Return excess product spills or drips to their intended use. For example, consider reusing filtered, waste antifreeze as water in other radiators; contain oil or grease drips and use for future lubrication needs; dispose of pesticide rinse water by spreading on labeled field sites at the proper application rate for the pesticide.

Contain any unusable products, waste spills and drips for appropriate disposal.

Do not pour leftover products on the ground or down the drain or toilet. This will most likely contaminate the groundwater as well as damage your septic system.

The remainder of this section provides information about the proper handling and disposal of household hazardous waste products found in most homes.

Maintenance Products
Maintenance products include solvent-based strippers, thinners, mineral spirits, cleaners, wood polishes/cleaners, paints and stains, products used on cars, tractors and other vehicles or equipment and wood preservatives. The best way to manage these products is to use them for their intended purpose.

Unused household hazardous waste products can be disposed in contained landfills. However, Kentucky law prohibits the disposal of liquids in landfills to prevent the free liquids from leaching into the groundwater. When disposing of household hazardous waste products at contained landfills, follow these recommendations:

Paints, stains and solvent-based materials- (stripper, thinner, mineral spirits, cleaners) should be solidified by mixing with kitty litter or sawdust, or by evaporating the liquid. Leftover solids can then be sent to a contained landfill or transfer station.

The following recommendations for the disposal of vehicle maintenance products should be used:

Used motor oil- should be reused for lubrication or burned for heat in an approved residential space heater. Look for a label on your heater or check with the manufacturer to determine if it is approved to burn used motor oil. If it cannot be completely reused, take the leftover to a used oil collection site. Many service stations will now accept used motor oil for recycling. It is illegal to use waste oil to suppress dust or to kill weeds. Waste oil contains heavy metals and other engine pollutants that can contaminate soils and water resources.

Used antifreeze- can be filtered and used to replace water in a radiator. Otherwise, locate a service station that will accept and properly dispose of or reuse it.

Lead acid batteries- should be taken to the store where purchased. Battery retailers are required by law to accept used batteries.

Old fuels- use whenever possible. For leftover quantities that have been stored for several months, dilute one part old fuel with five parts new fuel and use for engine protection.

Drips and spills- working on cars, tractors, and other equipment should be confined to a paved area with absorbent materials such as kitty litter or sawdust. The absorbent material can then be disposed at a contained landfill. Keep drips and spills off the soil. If the soil is contaminated, deliver it to a contained landfill and be sure to avoid future soil contamination. Maintenance on cars, tractors and other equipment should be done at least 150 feet from any well, spring, sinkhole or stream.

Wood Preservatives
Wood preservatives may be or contain pesticides. Unused portions should be treated with extreme care. Again, try to use all products purchased for the intended purpose, or give the unused product to someone who will use it for its intended purpose. If not, contact the store where the product was purchased to see if the retailer or the manufacturer will accept the remainder. If leftovers must be disposed, mix with kitty litter and send to a contained landfill.

Pesticides
This category of potentially hazardous substances includes all types of pesticides and their containers, including those used for indoor plants and yard care.

All categories of pesticides should be handled as directed on the label to prevent health and environmental problems. Pay particular attention to pesticides classified as "restricted use." Pesticide labels and regulations describe the proper and legal use of regulated compounds. Older pesticides might not have current warning labels, and some may have even been banned since the time of purchase.

The only acceptable disposal practice for unused or unwanted (not banned) pesticides is to use the product according to current label directions. If a person has no further use for a pesticide, it should be given to someone who will use it accordingly. If that is not an option, the retailer where the pesticide was purchased should be contacted to see if he or the manufacturer will accept it.

When the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency cancels the registration of a pesticide, i.e., the pesticide is banned, it may provide a "buy-back" and disposal program for a period of time. The Kentucky Division of Pesticides, phone: (502)564-7274, should be contacted for more information on buy-back and disposal programs. If no program is available, the retailer where the pesticide was purchased should be contacted to see if he or the manufacturer will accept it. If that is not an option, properly store the pesticide until a buy-back or other banned pesticide collection service becomes available. The best way to avoid these problems is to purchase only the amount of pesticide needed for one growing season.

Pesticide waste includes empty containers as well as unused product. Pesticides come in minibulk tanks, plastic, metal, glass and paper containers. Minibulk tanks are returned to the place of purchase when application is completed. Some five-gallon plastic containers can be returned to the place of purchase for disposal.

Plastic pesticide containers should be immediately triple or pressure rinsed, punctured and recycled at a "rinse and return" program. If no "rinse and return" program is offered in the county, the retailer should be contacted to see if he accepts empty containers. Also, the county extension agent should be contacted to find out if a "rinse and return" program is scheduled for the future in or near the county. If no program is available, the triple or pressure rinsed, punctured containers should be disposed of in a contained landfill or transfer station.

Quick and Easy Reference Guide

Automotive Products

Auto Products	Hazardous Ingredients	Hazard Properties	Proper Disposal	Less Toxic Alternatives
*Antifreeze*	* Ethylene glycol	Toxic	Recycle antifreeze waste at service station, reclamation center or Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection station. Waste can be disposed of at some wastewater treatment plants where bacteria can detoxify the material. (Call your local treatment plant.) Do not pour on the ground or in a septic tank.	Propylene glycol may be less toxic Recycled antifreeze
*Batteries*	Sulfuric acid Lead	Corrosive Toxic	Recycle used batteries through a service station, reclamation center or HHW collection station or return to store where purchased for disposal.	Unknown
*Brake Fluids*	Glycol ethers Heavy metals	Flammable Toxic	Recycle brake fluid waste through a service station, reclamation center or HHW collection station.	Unknown
*Transmission Fluids*	Hydrocarbons Mineral oils	Flammable Toxic	Recycle transmission fluid waste through a service station, reclamation center or HHW collection station.	Recycled transmission fluids (toxic, yet recycled)
*Used Oils*	Hydrocarbons (e.g., benzene) Heavy metals	Flammable Toxic	Recycle used motor oil through a service station, reclamation center or HHW collection station.	Unknown

Household Products

Household Products	Hazardous Ingredients	Hazard Properties	Proper Disposal	Less Toxic Alternatives
*Abrasive Cleaners and Powders*	Trisodiumphosphate Ammonia Ethanol	Corrosive Toxic Irritant	* Use all abrasive cleaner or powdered products so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the abrasive cleaner or powder container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * In rare circumstances when abrasive cleaners or powder products will not be completely used, the waste should be stored following these guidelines: Keep substances in the original container, unless the container is leaking. In this case, enclose the product in another container that is properly labeled. Keep a list of stored hazardous products in your home (include name and date purchased.) Be sure label is securely affixed to the container. Store in a cool, dry area. Keep substances out of the reach of children and pets. Keep incompatible chemical products stored separately. Periodically check containers for deterioration.	Rub area with 1/2 lemon dipped in borax, rinse and dry Baking soda Borax
*Ammonia-based Cleaners*	Ammonia Ethanol	Corrosive Toxic Irritant	* Use all ammonia-based cleaners so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the ammonia-based cleaner container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * In rare circumstances when ammonia-based cleaners will not be completely used, the waste should be stored following the guidelines listed under Abrasive Cleaners and Powders.	Undiluted white vinegar in a spray bottle
*Bleach Cleaners*	Sodium or potassium hydroxide Hydrogen peroxide Sodium or calcium hypochlorite	Corrosive Toxic	* Use all bleach cleaners so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the bleach cleaner container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * In rare circumstances when bleach cleaners will not be completely used, the waste should be stored following the guidelines listed under Abrasive Cleaners and Powders.	Laundry: 1/2 cup vinegar, baking soda, or borax per load.
*Disinfectants*	Diethylene Methylene glycol Sodium hypochlorite Phenols	Corrosive Toxic	* Use all disinfectants so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the disinfectant container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * In rare circumstances when disinfectants will not be completely used, the waste should be stored following the guidelines listed under Abrasive Cleaners and Powders.	Mix 1/2 cup borax with 1 gallon of boiling water Undiluted white vinegar
*Drain Cleaners*	Sodium or potassium hydroxide Sodium hypochlorite Hydrochloric acid Petroleum distillates	Corrosive Toxic	* Drain cleaner wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty drain cleaner containers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the label. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the drain cleaner container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Use a plunger Flush weekly with boiling water Pour in 1/4 cup baking soda
*Floor & Furniture Polish*	Diethylene Glycol Petroleum distillates Nitrobenzene	Flammable Toxic	* Floor and furniture polish wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty floor & furniture polish containers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the label. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the floor & furniture polish container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	1 part lemon juice & 2 parts linseed oil Toothpaste to remove water stains
*Household Batteries*	Mercury Silver Cadmium Lithium Zinc	Toxic	* Recycle used household batteries through a service station, reclamation center or household hazardous waste collection station.	Solar- powered batteries Wind-up watches Recharge- ables AC adapters
*Mothballs*	Naphthalenes Paradichloro- benzene	Toxic	* Use all mothballs so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the mothball container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * Mothball wastes can be disposed of at some wastewater treatment plants where bacteria can detoxify the chemical. (Call your local treatment plant.) Do not pour used mothballs on the ground or into a septic tank.	Store cedar chips Newspapers Lavender flowers with clothing
*Oven Cleaners*	Potassium or sodium hydroxide Ammonia	Corrosive Toxic	* Use all oven cleaners so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the oven cleaner container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * In rare circumstances when oven cleaners will not be completely used, the waste should be stored following the guidelines listed under Abrasive Cleaners & Powders.	Wipe oven while still warm Use baking soda/water paste and steel wool to scrub
*Photographic Chemicals*	Silver Sodium sulfite Acetic acid Hydroquinone	Corrosive Toxic Irritant	* Photographic chemicals should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty photographic chemical containers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the photographic chemical container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Unknown
*Pool Chemicals*	Muriatic acid Sodium hypochlorite Algicide	Corrosive	* Pool chemicals should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste program is organized. * Empty pool chemical containers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the pool chemical container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Disinfectants: ozone or UV light system pH: consult baking soda box for amount to add for proper pH
*Rug & Upholstery Cleaners*	Napthalene Perchlorethylene Oxalic acid Diethylene glycol	Corrosive Toxic	* Rug & upholstery cleaners should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty rug & upholstery cleaner containers may be triple- rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the rug & upholstery container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Clean immediately with soda water or baking soda paste, then vacuum
*Toilet Cleaners*	Muriatic (hydrochloric) or oxalic acid Paradichloro- benzene Calcium hypochlorite	Corrosive Toxic Irritant	* Toilet cleaners should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Use all toilet cleaners so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the toilet cleaner container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * In rare circumstances, when toilet cleaners will not be completely used, this waste should be stored following the guidelines listed under Abrasive Cleaners & Powders.	Toilet brush and baking soda Borax or soak with white vinegar

Paint Products

Paint Products	Hazardous Ingredients	Hazard Properties	Proper Disposal	Less Toxic Alternatives
*Enamel or Oil- Based Paints*	Aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons Mineral spirits Some pigments	Flammable Toxic	* Enamel and oil-based paint wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Partially used enamel or oil-based paints may be exchanged with friends and neighbors or can be donated to community groups like Habitat for Humanity. * Empty enamel or oil-based paint containers may be triple- rinsed according to the instructions on the label. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the enamel or oil- based paint container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Latex Water- based paint
*Paint and Varnish Remover*	Acetone Ketones Alcohol Xylene Toluene Methylene chloride	Flammable Toxic	* Paints and varnish remover wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Partially used paints and varnish removers may be exchanged with friends and neighbors or can be donated to community groups like Habitat for Humanity. * Empty paint and varnish remover containers may be triple- rinsed according to the instructions on the label. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the paint and varnish remover container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Sandpaper, scraper and heat gun
*Latex or Water-Based Paints*	Ethylene glycol Resins Glycol ethers Phenyl mercuric acetate Some pigments	Toxic	* Use all latex or water-based paints so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Partially used latex or water based paints may be exchanged with friends and neighbors or can be donated to community groups like Habitat for Humanity. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the latex or water-based paint container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Latex without these named ingredients Limestone- based (white- wash) paint
*Rust Proofing Coatings*	Methylene chloride Toluene Petroleum distillates Xylene Some pigments	Flammable Toxic	* Rust proofing coating wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Partially used rust proofing coating may be exchanged with friends or neighbors or can be donated to community groups like Habitat for Humanity. * Empty rust proofing coating containers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the rust proofing coating container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Unknown
*Stains and Varnishes*	Mineral spirits Glycol ethers Ketones Xylene Toluene	Flammable Toxic	* Stains and varnishes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Partially used stains and varnishes may be exchanged with friends or neighbors or can be donated to community groups like Habitat for Humanity. * Empty stain and varnish containers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the stain and varnish container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Latex or water- based finishes
*Thinners and Turpentine*	Alcohol Ketones Acetone Turpentine Esters Petroleum distillates	Flammable Toxic	* Keep contained in a tightly closed jar to allow contaminants to settle out. Strain paint thinner and turpentine through a fine mesh sieve; reuse the liquid. The concentrated contaminant should be stored and taken to a household hazardous waste collection station.	Use water in water- based paints

Pesticides

Pesticides	Hazardous Ingredients	Hazard Properties	Proper Disposal	Less Toxic Alternatives
*Arsenicals*	Lead arsenate Calcium arsenate Monosodium methane arsenate (MSMA) Paris green	Toxic	* Arsenical wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty pesticide containers of arsenicals may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the arsenical pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	For ants: avoid ant stakes; use insecticidal boric acid where ants enter. (Toxic to children and pets.)
*Botanicals*	Pyrethrins Rotenone Nicotine	Toxic	* Botanical wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty pesticide containers of botanicals may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the label. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the botanical pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Insecticidal soap Import predators (ladybugs, ground beetles and preying mantis).
*Carbamates*	Carbaryl Aldicarb Carbofuran (restricted-use pesticide) Propoxur	Toxic	* Carbamate wastes should be safely stored or used on target area only until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty pesticide containers of carbamates may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the carbamate pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Keep garden weed-free Import predators Insecticidal soap
*Chlorinated Hydrocarbons*	Aldrin Endrin Heptachlor Dicofol Chlordane Lindane Kepone Dieldrin DDT ** (- pesticides discontinued over 10 years ago or more)	Toxic	* Chlorinated hydrocarbon waste should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty pesticide containers of chlorinated hydrocarbons, however, may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Keep garden free of debris Import predators Use insecticidal soap
*Flea Collars and Sprays*	Carbamates Pyrethrins Organo-phosphates	Toxic	* Use all flea collar and spray products so that no waste remains except residuals attached to the container. Containers should be rinsed with water. The rinse water may be either reused or poured down the drain with great quantities of water. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the flea collar and spray pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste. * In rare circumstances when flea collar and spray products will not be completely used, the waste should be stored following the guidelines listed under Abrasive Cleaners and Powders.	Herbal collar/ointment (eucalyptus or rosemary) Brewer’s yeast (call vet for correct amount)
*Fungicides*	Captan Fopet Anilazine Copper/Zinc compounds	Toxic	* Fungicide wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty containers of fungicides may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the fungicide pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Do not over water Aerate soil Keep areas dethatched and dry
*Herbicides*	2, 4-D Glyphosate Prometon	Toxic	* Herbicide wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty containers of herbicides may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the herbicide pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Hand weeding Let grass grow 2-3 inches to shade weed seedlings
*Houseplant Insecticide*	Methoprene Malathion Tetramethrin Carbaryl	Toxic	* Houseplant insecticide wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty containers of houseplant insecticides may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the household insecticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Mix 2 pounds of dishwashing liquid with 2 cups of water and spray on leaves
*Mouse and Rat Poisons*	Brodifacoum Coumarins (e.g., warfarin) Strychnine	Toxic	* Mouse and rat poison product wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty containers of mouse and rat poisons may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the mouse and rat poison pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Live traps Caulk and seal all holes Ultrasonic wave- emitting devices
*Organo-* *phosphates*	Parathion Malathion Diazinon - R Dichlorvos (DDVP) Chlorpyifos	Toxic	* Organo-phosphate wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty containers of organo-phosphates may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the organo- phosphate pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Remove plant debris or wood from garden Use insecticidal soap
*Roach and Ant Killers*	Organo-phosphates Carbamates Pyrethrins	Toxic	* Roach and ant killers should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Empty containers of roach and ant killers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the roach and ant killer pesticide container is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Place boric acid in and along cracks (Toxic to children and pets.)
*Wood Preservatives*	Copper or zinc naphthenate Creosote Magnesium flourosilicate Petroleum distillates Chlorinated phenols (e.g., PCP)	Flammable Toxic	* Wood preservative wastes should be safely stored until a community household hazardous waste collection program is organized. * Partially used wood preservatives may be exchanged with friends or neighbors or can be donated to community groups like Habitat for Humanity. * Empty wood preservative containers may be triple-rinsed according to the instructions on the labels. * Because of strict landfill standards, once the wood preservatives is rinsed, it can be discarded with other residential waste.	Water- based wood preservatives

Safety Guidelines and Procedures

1. Rules of Thumb for Reducing Exposure to Toxins
Recognizing that most individuals will continue to use some home and garden products containing toxic chemicals, the following suggestions are provided to limit exposure and reduce the potential for accidents.

Keep products in their original containers -- Over the years, some manufacturers have altered the ingredients. In the event of a poisoning, the product label can give a clue to the product's age and contents. Never place toxins in containers associated with food or drink. Kerosene and other petroleum products stored in soda bottles and in tin cans have resulted in many accidental poisonings.

Use products in well-ventilated areas -- Avoid breathing the fumes. One open window is not considered adequate ventilation. Use an exhaust fan. Make sure the air is escaping outside and is not recirculating indoors. Take "fresh air" breaks. Work outdoor if possible.

Avoid use of aerosols when possible -- Breathing the fine mist can cause it to settle deep in the lungs and be quickly absorbed in the bloodstream. Aerosol cans have an explosive quality and should never be placed in sunlight, near a stove, in a glove compartment or near an open flame.

Keep products out of reach of children or pets -- Most accidents occur when a product is left unattended. Keep all toxins in locked cabinets or on high shelves. Do not store near food.

Clean up after using toxins -- Carefully seal products when you are through using them. Some open products evaporate quickly and can pollute the air. Rags containing flammables (e.g., furniture stripper, paint remover, etc.) are fire hazards. Therefore, disposing of them in covered metal containers prevents oxygen from reaching the rags and igniting.

Wear protective clothing -- This prevents chemicals from entering the bloodstream through skin absorption. It is best not to wear contact lenses when working around solvents as the fumes can become trapped between the lens and the eye, causing irritation or damage.

Never mix products -- Some products contain toxic chemicals that create intense heat and/or toxic fumes when mixed with other products. A common example involves the mixing of chlorine bleach with ammonia. Together they emit toxic chloramine fumes. Never mix different brands of the same product. Each brand may have different ingredients.

Choose products with child-resistant caps -- Following the introduction of child-resistant caps in 1972, the number of children's deaths involving aspirin products alone declined 43.5 percent the first year.

Use only the recommended amount -- Twice as much does not mean twice as effective and can cause more harm than good.

If pregnant, avoid toxic chemical exposure as much as possible -- Many chemicals in household products have not been tested for their effect on unborn children.

Buy only what you need -- Some products require using only small amounts to achieve effectiveness. Buying the "economy size" may leave you with unwanted portions and a disposal problem.

Beware of product antidotes -- Some products (especially older ones) may give first aid advice that is potentially harmful. Always call a medical professional or the Poison Control Center for advice.

2. Use Safer Substitutes

All-purpose cleaner: In 1 quart warm or hot water, mix 1 teaspoon liquid soap, boric acid (borax), lemon juice and/or vinegar. Make stronger according to the job to be done.

Drain cleaner: Pour boiling water down the drain once a week. Use a plunger or mechanical snake.

Flea and tick powder: Put brewer's yeast or garlic in your pet's food; sprinkle fennel, rue, rosemary or eucalyptus seeds or leaves around animal sleeping areas.

Fly paper: Boil together sugar, corn syrup and water. Spread on brown paper bag and hang.

Furniture polish: Wipe a mixture of 1 teaspoon lemon oil in 1 pint mineral or vegetable oil.

Glass cleaner: Mix 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice in 1 quart water. Spray on and use newspapers to wipe dry.

Laundry detergent: Use natural soap flakes. If the water is hard, add 1/4 cup vinegar during the first rinse to prevent the soap from leaving a film.

Mothballs: Use cedar chips, lavender flowers, rosemary, mint or white peppercorns.

Oven cleaner: Clean spills as soon as the oven cools using steel wool and baking soda; for tough stains, add salt (do not use this method in self-cleaning or continuous-clean ovens).

Plant sprays: Wipe leaves with mild soap and water; rinse.

Roach and ant repellent: Sprinkle powdered boric acid in cabinet edges, around baseboards and in cracks.

Rug deodorizer and shampoo: Deodorize dry carpets by sprinkling liberally with baking soda. Wait at least 15 minutes and vacuum. Repeat if necessary. To clean rugs, vacuum first to remove dirt. Mix 1 quart white vinegar and 3 quarts boiling water. Apply to nap of rug with wet rag being careful not to saturate rug backing. Dry thoroughly, then vacuum.

Silver polish: Boil 2 to 3 inches of water in a shallow pan with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon baking soda and a sheet of aluminum foil. Totally submerge silver and boil for 2 to 3 more minutes. Wipe away tarnish. Repeat if necessary. Another alternative is to use nonabrasive toothpaste.

Toilet bowl cleaner: Use a toilet brush and baking soda or vinegar.

3. Environmentally Safe Stain Removal

Bathtub/ sink stains: Scrub with a paste made of cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide.

Beer spills: Apply hydrogen peroxide to dried stains on white cotton. Sponge stains on colored fabrics with white vinegar.

Blood stains: Douse spots with hydrogen peroxide (if fabric is bleachable) or diluted ammonia before rinsing in cool water. Avoid hot water; heat will set the bloodstain.

Brass & copper tarnish: Mix together equal parts salt and flour, then add enough white vinegar to make a paste. Rub into stain. This may require more than one application.

Chewing gum: In hair, work in vegetable oil or an oil-based cream (such as peanut butter) until gum is loosened. On fabric, rub area with ice until gum hardens and most can be removed. Place waxed paper over excess gum and iron lightly over paper.

Coffee & tea stains: Wipe clean with a paste made of baking soda and water, or salt and white vinegar.

Fresh fruit & vegetable stains: Stretch fabric tight and pour hot or boiling water slowly over the stain so that water runs through the fabric.

Grass stains: Apply rubbing alcohol liberally to stained areas before laundering.

Grease/ oil marks: Gently rub in talcum powder, cornmeal or cornstarch; let set, then brush or sponge powder away.

Mildew: Scrub walls and floors with a brush dipped in borax and water. For books or papers, dust with talcum powder, cornmeal or cornstarch, let set for two days; then brush off.

Mustard stains: Soak stained area with diluted ammonia before laundering.

Perspiration stains: Rub stained areas with white vinegar before laundering. (Keep vinegar handy in a squirt bottle to saturate such stains before laundering.)

Pet urine: Dampen area with equal parts of white vinegar and water and blot dry.

Price stickers: Saturate with vegetable or baby oil before removing.

Rust stains: Rub with lemon juice and salt, then rinse thoroughly with water.

Scorch marks: Soak fabric in hydrogen peroxide, then rinse. Or alternate rubbing the area with a lemon slice, then wiping with a dampened sponge until stain disappears.

Tarnish from eggs: Rub off with table salt.

Vinyl that's dry: Sponge down with equal parts rubbing alcohol and water.

Water spots on stainless steel: Rub area with a clean, soft cloth dampened with white vinegar.

Wine spills: Liberally apply club soda to spill, then sponge up the soda and wine.

Keep Information Available to the Public

Many communities work with the county extension service to produce brochures and conduct workshops and presentations on proper management of household hazardous wastes. The brochures are distributed to the general public through school programs, community education programs, recycling centers and through retail outlets such as farm businesses.

Use of the local media can reach the largest audience. An environmental column in the newspaper is an excellent place to educate the public on household hazardous waste management. Public service announcements through local radio and cable channels are also effective.

The information provided should be easy to read and understand. Examples of alternative products should be given whenever possible. A telephone number should be published for assistance in proper methods for handling and disposing of household hazardous waste.

Public education programs about household hazardous waste management should deal with the following topics:

Environmental and public health risks

Proper waste disposal practices

New, stringent standards for contained landfills

Waste reduction and recycling

Safety guidelines for storage and use

Community household hazardous waste collection

Toll-free information hotline and listing of agency contacts

Resources

The Household Hazardous Waste Management Guide was developed by compiling sections of the following documents on household hazardous waste management:

Assessing and Reducing the Risk of Groundwater Contamination from -- Household Waste Management. KY-A-Syst, College of Agriculture, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Kentucky.

Family Circle. September 25, 1990, page 102.

For Hazardous Waste... There's No Place Like Home. Land, Air and Water. Kentucky Division of Waste Management, Fall 1991.

Free Household Hazardous Waste Collection. LWD, Inc., April 16, 1994.

Home Inventory... Your Guide to Responsible Care of Hazardous Household Products. LWD, Inc.

Household Hazardous Waste Wheel. Atochem.

Household Hazardous Waste -- When a Little Bit Means a Lot: Health & Environment. Volume 2, No. 8, September 1988.