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Tips for Proper Use, Storage and Disposal of Household Hazardous Products

Follow the product manufacturer's label carefully. The effectiveness, use and safety of a product are based on the directions specified in the label.

Buy only what you can use in a relatively short time.

Search out neighbors, community organizations, schools, or others who may be able to use surplus household products.

Recycle wastes whenever possible.

Do not mix products. Mixing different chemicals together for use can result in explosive or poisonous chemical reactions.

Keep products in their original, labeled containers and out of the reach of children.

Do not burn empty containers as fumes may be harmful.

Learn to recognize which household products are considered hazardous. Consider using nontoxic,
non - hazardous alternatives. For specific examples of safe substitutes, see EPA's Pollution Prevention webpage.


General examples include:

Adhesives -- Use a water-based or latex adhesive.
Batteries -- Choose rechargeable batteries (removable, so they can be recycled) and mercury-free batteries when possible.
Cleaners -- Choose soap or detergent-based cleaners when possible. Avoid nonwater-soluable and corrosive cleaners when others offer an effective substitute.
Household Pesticides -- Look for ways to reduce your need for these products through appropriate cleaning and maintenance habits. Explore alternatives to chemical pest control. URI CE GreenShare Program; URI CE Master Gardener Hotline 1 - 800 - 448-1011, Monday - Thursday 9am - 2 pm.
Floor and Wood-finish strippers -- Use a detergent or water-based stripper.
Paint Stripper -- Use sandpaper, a scraper, or heat gun for small jobs.
Wood preservative -- Use a water-sealing coating.

For tips with proper use, storage and disposal of fuels and yard and garden care chemicals, visit our healthy landscapes website.


Dispose of unused household hazardous waste properly.
For more information contact:
The RI Resource Recovery Corporation Eco-Depot, Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility at (401) 942-1430 ext. 241.
Also, contact your local town or city offices for information on local recycling programs.

URI Home*A*Syst provides equal program opportunities without regard to race,age, sex or preference, creed, or disability. The University is an Affirmative Action /
Equal Opportunity employer. AES and CE programs are nondiscriminatory (Non-Discrimination Statement).
Copyright 2006 URI Water Quality Program