Household Hazardous Waste
What is household hazardous waste (HHW)?
HHW is unwanted hazardous waste generated by residents at their home. It is generally any product with DANGER, WARNING or CAUTION printed on the label. Safe disposal of HHW is important to protecting the health and safety of our homes, children, pets, communities, wildlife and environment.
HHW includes
- Paint (latex, oil, spray)
- Automotive fluids (motor oil, antifreeze, etc.)
- Cleaners
- Lawn and garden products
- Fluorescent light bulbs
- Batteries
- Nail polish
- Fluorescent lightbulbs
- Cooking oil
- Pesticides/insecticides
- Pool chemicals
- Mercury (any items containing mercury)
HHW does not include
- Appliances
- Asbestos
- Explosives (ammunition, fireworks, etc.)
- Medical waste (needles, prescription drugs, etc.)
- Propane bottles over 1 lb.
- Tires
- Yard waste
- Electronic waste (TVs, computers, small appliances, etc.)
What to do with HHW
Safe disposal of HHW is critical to protecting the health and safety of our children, pets, communities, wildlife and environment.
HHW Disposal for Missouri Residents
The Regional HHW Collection Program provides access to proper HHW disposal for residents living in Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte and Ray counties in Missouri.
HHW Disposal for Kansas Residents
Kansas residents who live in Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson, or Miami counties can take their HHW for free to their respective facility.
HHW for Businesses and Organizations
Any hazardous waste not generated by a resident is classified as business hazardous waste.
Safer alternatives
Keep your home and community safer and healthier by using safer, natural products instead of harsher chemicals.
Tips
Paint: Buy only what you need
Avoid buying too much paint. Use this paint calculator to determine how much paint you need for the job at hand.
Stay organized
Properly store and organize products to increase safety, maintain product integrity, and avoid buying what you already have.
Stay safe!
Avoid buying products labeled danger, warning, caution, flammable, explosive, corrosive, caustic, toxic or poison. Learn more about safe alternatives.
