Items such as batteries and light bulbs have to be recycled at special recycling centers. Never mix cleaning products together. If you only have a small amount of cleaning product left in each bottle, it may be tempting to mix them into one bottle for disposal. Different chemicals can react with each other to form very hazardous fumes and noxious gases.
Every chemical product you buy should come with an MSDS sheet. However, you can also use the online MSDS database to look up the MSDS for the specific formulation of the chemical you wish to dispose. [1] X Research source
Determine if your waste is hazardous by referring to this EPA flow chart. If your waste is classified as hazardous by the EPA, you will need to contact the EPA for proper disposal. You can contact the EPA online or by looking up your local EPA office and contacting them directly by phone. [4] X Trustworthy Source United States Environmental Protection Agency Independent U. S. government agency responsible for promoting safe environmental practices Go to source
Also, make sure to tie back your hair if it is long. Never breathe deeply and inhale chemical fumes, particularly if you are unsure of what the chemical is. Read all safety information for a chemical before working with it or disposing of it. If you get a chemical on your skin or in your eye, seek medical attention right away. You should also immediately rinse the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes.
Latex paints can be disposed of at home. Stir in an equal part of cat litter to match the amount of paint. Stir until the paint thickens and allow the mixture to sit for one hour. You can throw the hardened paint away in the garbage. [6] X Research source
Use a recycling locator to help you find a location near you. [7] X Research source
Alternatively, you can dispose of partially filled cans by taking them to a Household Hazardous Waste collection center.
If you must dispose of them in the garbage, make sure the chemicals are dry, stored in their original containers and double-bagged to prevent contamination.
Laboratories have specific waste disposal departments that take care of this. Once you have a full container, schedule a pick-up for disposal. Store the used chemical in a proper container for disposal. A sealed plastic container is generally sufficient. [11] X Research source
perchloric acid concentrated nitric acid fuming (concentrated), sulfuric acid hydrofluoric acid acids or bases with dyes or surfactants acids of bases with heavy metals organic acids and bases that remain toxic after neutralization
A pH meter directly measures the pH of the solution. pH paper has a color indicator that tells you the strength of the solution.
Placing the container in a second container of ice will help avoid overheating and potential injury. You should also wear goggles and a mask to protect yourself from noxious fumes.
This reaction also releases heat, so add slowly and keep the container in a bucket of ice to avoid superheating the container.
Acid-base indicator solutions can also be used to test the pH of the solutions. As the pH of the entire solution changes, the color of the indicator will change. If you have access to an indicator, it can make your neutralization process easier. [12] X Research source
Diluting the acid or base is an exothermic reaction, meaning it will give off heat. Place the container in an ice bucket to avoid superheating the container. You can calculate the amount of water needed to dilute the solution based on the strength of the acid or base.
If the waste contains a heavy metal such as copper, lead, zinc, cadmium, or mercury, you cannot dispose of it down the sink. It must be disposed of as hazardous waste by an environmental health and safety office.
