Hazardous Waste in the Home

Many home and business owners are often faced with the discovery of an old but hazardous substance - any material that is corrosive, toxic, ignitable or reactive - in their house or business. Since they cannot just throw out the dangerous substance, many people continue to maintain hazardous materials in their home or business and put their families or coworkers at risk of accidental exposure.

Household Hazardous Waste Days

To allow county residents to dispose of harmful products safely, Harford County holds Household Hazardous Waste Days quarterly. There is no charge for residents with only HHW materials.  

Leaking hazardous materials 

Avoid a potential hazard in your home

  • Buy pesticides, construction materials (glue, paints) and cleaning materials in proper sizes to complete the job you are trying to do. Do not buy commercial size containers if you are doing a small job at home.
  • Do not take chemicals home from work.
  • Never keep chemicals in food containers (old jars, milk cartons, etc.). Keep them in the original container. If you do not know what it is, do not use it!
  • If you have chemicals left over from a project, ask your neighbors if they can use them. If you have construction materials left over, contact a contractor who may be able to use them.