When an item is considered hazardous waste, that means it can be ignitable, explosive, corrosive, or toxic. This means that if hazardous waste is discarded in a trash can like any other item, it may cause a reaction that can compromise your safety. Therefore, you’ll want to be aware of what items are considered hazardous waste. And believe it or not, some of your household items may fit this criterion.

The experts at RestoPros would like to inform Dallas/Ft. Worth homeowners on 5 household  hazardous waste examples.

1. Mothballs

Mothballs are small, chemical-filled balls that are used to repel certain pests and mold from a given area. And you’ll typically find them scattered in closets and attics. But while their function may seem useful at first – they contain enough pesticides and chemicals to be considered hazardous waste.

Mothballs can contain two active chemicals – naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene. Both chemicals are considered hazardous waste and must not be discarded in the trash can or flushed down the drain. Additionally, mothballs should never be placed within reach of pets or children. If consumed, they should be taken to a medical facility immediately.

2. Furniture Polish

Furniture polish can be a very toxic concoction. It’s made of several different polishing agents, solvents, and hydrocarbons. And if accidentally consumed, even in small amounts, emergency medical attention is quickly needed. Simply inhaling furniture polish can also lead to headaches, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Due to this high toxicity, furniture polish is considered hazardous waste.

Usually, the manufacturer will provide instructions for proper disposal on the product’s labeling. If not found, research the manufacturer’s website to see if any instructions are available.

3. Glass Cleaner

Most glass cleaners contain very potent cleaning agents. And while it may be able to remove stains off glass surfaces more thoroughly, it can also be toxic, flammable, and corrosive. Glass cleaners tend to contain isopropyl alcohol, ethanolamine, and butyl glycol. These chemicals, especially ethanolamine, can be highly reactive if mixed with other chemicals. Therefore, it’s important to take considerable caution and find the right disposal procedures for glass cleaners.

4. Drain Cleaner

Drain cleaners can contain strong acids as their active ingredients. The common chemicals found are lye and sodium hydroxide. But you can also find drain cleaners containing potassium hydroxide. All these chemicals are highly corrosive, with sodium hydroxide even able to be explosive if mixed with certain metals.

5. Batteries

Certain batteries can contain the same chemical found in some drain cleaners – potassium hydroxide. And if a disposed battery containing potassium hydroxide gets punctured or damaged while in the trash, this chemical can leak. Potassium hydroxide can cause severe burns on the skin and eyes if contacted, as well as being corrosive and reactive to water. Therefore, you’ll want to research the type of batteries before discarding them, and follow any additional instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Help improve the safety of your home by knowing which household items are considered hazardous waste. And contact RestoPros if your Dallas/Ft. Worth home ever requires professional hazard cleanup services. Give us a call at 855-587-3786 to schedule an appointment and get started.

Related Links:

Household Hazardous Waste Collection for Dallas County Residents

Household Hazardous Waste – Environmental Protection Agency