Household Hazardous Waste

Many common household products, like paint, cleaners, automotive fluids, and batteries, can become dangerous if they’re poured down the drain, dumped outside, or put in the trash. Proper disposal helps protect water quality, wildlife, and community health across the River Raisin Watershed.

What Is Household Hazardous Waste?

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) includes everyday products that are flammable, toxic, corrosive, or reactive. These materials should not go in the regular trash or recycling, and they should never be dumped down storm drains, sinks, or onto the ground.

Common examples of HHW include:

Paints, stains, and varnishes
Household cleaners and disinfectants
Automotive fluids (motor oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, gasoline)
Pesticides, herbicides, and lawn chemicals
Pool chemicals
Solvents, thinners, and adhesives
Fluorescent bulbs and tubes
Batteries (single-use, rechargeable, and car batteries)
Propane cylinders and fuel canisters
Mercury-containing devices (thermometers, thermostats)

Why Proper Disposal Matters

When hazardous products are poured down drains, tossed in the trash, or dumped outdoors, they can:

Pollute rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands
Harm fish, wildlife, and aquatic habitats
Contaminate soil and groundwater
Create fire and explosion hazards in homes, garages, and landfills
Increase costs for municipalities and taxpayers

By using approved hazardous waste collection programs, residents help keep our watershed cleaner, safer, and more resilient.

How to Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste Safely

Disposal options vary by county and municipality, but most residents in the River Raisin Watershed have access to designated drop-off sites or collection events.

Step 1 – Check Local Guidelines
Visit your county or city’s website or call your local solid waste or environmental office to learn about hazardous waste collection programs, accepted materials, and any fees or appointment requirements.

Step 2 – Gather & Label Materials
Keep products in their original containers whenever possible. Do not mix different chemicals together. If a label is missing, write what you believe the product is on the container.

Step 3 – Drop Off at an Approved Site
Take your materials to a recognized Household Hazardous Waste collection site or event. Follow staff instructions for unloading and sorting items.

Examples of Accepted Materials

Each program has its own list, but many Household Hazardous Waste programs accept:

Paints & Coatings

Latex and oil-based paint
Stains and varnishes
Primers and sealers

Household Chemicals

Cleaners and disinfectants
Degreasers
Bleach and ammonia (do not mix)

Automotive Products

Motor oil and oil filters
Antifreeze and brake fluid
Gasoline and fuel additives

Yard & Garden Chemicals

Pesticides and herbicides
Fertilizers with pesticides
Rodent and pest control products

Batteries & Electronics-Related

Single-use batteries
Rechargeable batteries
Vehicle batteries
(Check local rules for electronics and e-waste.)

Other

Fluorescent bulbs and tubes
Propane cylinders
Solvents and paint thinners
Aerosol cans with product still inside

Note: Accepted items may vary by location. Always confirm with your local program before dropping materials off.

What’s Not Accepted & Business Waste

Many Household Hazardous Waste programs accept residential materials only. Items from businesses, nonprofits, farms, or government agencies are typically not allowed.

Commonly not accepted items may include:

Commercial or industrial waste
Large quantities from businesses or institutions
Medical waste and pharmaceuticals
Ammunition and explosives
Radioactive materials

For businesses, farms, or other organizations with hazardous waste, contact your county or state environmental agency for guidance on proper disposal options.

Contact the River Raisin Watershed Council

Have questions about Household Hazardous Waste in the River Raisin Watershed or want help finding local disposal options?

Email us at admin@riverraisin.org