Hazardous materials (HAZMATs) are all around us, not just in industrial environments like factories and mills. Many everyday items in the home qualify as HAZMAT if mishandled, mixed with others, or disposed of incorrectly. These substances may pose big risks to you, your family, your home, and the environment. Here are six common household hazardous materials you didn’t know about and what to do about them.
Batteries
From AA batteries to rechargeable lithium-ion ones, these little power cells are small but dangerous. They may contain toxic chemicals, such as lead, cadmium, and mercury. If you toss them in the bin and they end up in a landfill, they may rust, break, and leak harmful substances into the soil and underground water supply. Find a battery recycling center in your town, or check with electronics stores that may provide battery recycling services.
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer’s germ-killing qualities come from its high alcohol content. It also makes hand sanitizer deadly to plant and animal life, so never toss hand sanitizer into the trash or pour it down the drain. It can contaminate the ecosystem! Check with local waste management and disposal companies to see if they provide methods for disposing of empty hand sanitizer bottles.
Cleaning Products
When household cleaning products enter the “wild,” they can harm the ecosystem. All-purpose cleaners, drain-opening substances, bleach, and oven sprays contain harsh chemicals that induce skin irritation and release toxic fumes. Never toss empty containers in your household bin, mix products, or pour them down the drain. Look for eco-friendly disposal alternatives at hazardous waste collection facilities.
Paint and Paint Thinners
Old cans of paint, paint thinners, and similar things used to prettify your home can pose safety hazards. Some paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). If improperly discarded, VOCs may evaporate into the air or seep into groundwater. Many communities offer designated paint recycling programs. You might consider donating excess paint to charities and nonprofits that can use it in their facilities.
E-Waste
E-waste, or electronic waste, consists of outmoded and discarded electric devices, such as old phones, laptops, TVs, and gaming consoles. In landfills they may release toxic substances, such as lead and mercury. In addition, E-waste often contains valuable elements, such as gold and platinum, that will just go to waste if left to the landfills. That puts greater strain on natural resources. Recycle E-waste through certified collection programs or electronics retailers.
Pesticides and Herbicides
They may kill weeds and pests, but they’re indiscriminate about killing other living things once they enter the environment. Store pesticides and herbicides safely, keeping them shut tight and away from areas where they can tip over and leak. It’s especially important to keep them out of reach of children. Inquire with your waste disposal company about the safe disposal of pesticides and herbicides. Consider more natural ways to deal with pests and weeds that don’t hurt plants and animals. Now you know more about six common household hazardous materials. Being aware of the hazardous materials in your home is the first step toward keeping yourself, your family, and the environment safe.