Some household products that are toxic or corrosive, or that can catch fire, react, or explode under certain circumstances, are classified as household hazardous waste (HHW). Products, such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides can contain hazardous ingredients and require special care for proper disposal.
To avoid the potential risks associated with HHW, it is important that people always monitor the use, storage, and disposal of products that contain potentially hazardous substances. Improper disposal of HHW can include pouring them down a drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or in some cases putting them out with the regular trash.
Improper disposal of these wastes can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health. Certain types of HHW have the potential to cause physical injury to sanitation workers if put in regular trash, or they can contaminate septic tanks or wastewater treatment systems if poured down drains or toilets. They can also present hazards to children and pets if left around the house.
Below are links for area HHW drop off sites, and further information on products considered as HHW. Some websites also offer information on alternative products to those products considered as hazardous, such as Safer Choice | US EPA.
City of Houston Household Hazardous Waste website:
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) (houstontx.gov)
HHW drop offs at City of Houston Environmental Service Centers:
Environmental Service Centers (ESC) (houstontx.gov)
How to Properly Manage Household Hazardous Waste:
The Harris County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility is by appointment only:
The facility is located at 6900 Hahl Road, Houston, TX 77040. Check website for drop off days & hours.
Engineering Dept > Consultants > Household Hazardous > Household Hazardous Waste (hctx.net)
Search tool at Earth 911. Use the Quick Search buttons on the left to refine a search:
Recycling Center Search - Earth911.com
EPA Household Hazardous Waste (HHW): Safe Management & Reducing HHW in your home:
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) | US EPA
Safer Choice helps consumers, businesses, and purchasers find products that perform and contain ingredients that are safer for human health and the environment. Safer Choice is an EPA Pollution Prevention (P2) program, which includes practices that reduce, eliminate, or prevent pollution at its source, such as using safer ingredients in products.
For questions or comments, contact Frank Blake at frankblake@juno.com
Photo courtesy of Carol Woronow.