The household is a source of many wastes, including potentially hazardous wastes, on a farm or ranch. Using safer alternatives, using only what you need, and recycling are all good ways to reduce both hazardous and non-hazardous waste. Much of your household waste can be minimized by recycling items such as newspapers, plastic beverage containers, glass, and aluminum. Recyclers in your area can be found using the DEQ's Recylers Directory.
Hazardous Household Products
Items such as automotive products, household cleaners, paints and solvents, and pesticides are common, yet could be harmful. Try to avoid using hazardous products, if possible. However, if you do have to deal with wastes from such products, dispose of them with care. Some examples of products which may contain hazardous ingredients are:
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Dispose of household hazardous wastes carefully:
- Don't dump them down the drain or on the ground since this could pollute your water supply.
- Never throw container which are not empty in the trash. The products inside could injure people such as sanitation workers who come in contact with the trash.
- If you have hazardous wastes, take advantage of local collection events. Many communities have annual collection days.
Prevention
Following simple guidelines can help reduce household wastes.
- Buy only what you need. If you can't use all of a product, see if someone you know can use it.
- Reuse solvents such as paint thinner by letting the paint particles settle out of the used solvent, then separating the paint particles and solvent.
- Use water based products whenever possible.
Alternative Products
The following are some examples of potentially hazardous products and safer alternatives to those products.
| Hazardous Product | Alternative Product |
|---|---|
| Oil-based paints | Latex paints |
| Oven cleaner | Baking soda, water, and a scouring pad |
| Drain cleaner | Mechanical devices such as "snakes" and plungers |
| Mothballs | Cedar chips |
| Chemical air freshness | Potpourri, flowers |