skip navigation
home» for residents» materials by name» cleaning products
Cleaning Products

Cleaning ProductsCleaning Products

We all like a clean home; however, what's good for cleaning the kitchen isn't necessarily safe to throw in the trash. Many cleaning products contain harmful ingredients that should never be thrown out or poured down the drain.

Reduction TipsReduction Tips

You can reduce waste and toxins in your home by choosing less hazardous cleaning products.
  • Read product labels before buying. Avoid products with the words Warning, Danger, or Poison as they are more toxic.
  • Use fewer products and buy only as much as you need. Choose a multi-purpose cleaner that will save money and storage space.
  • Check with your county's solid waste management office for reuse opportunities. Many offer cleaning products in their free product reuse area at the household hazardous waste drop-off sites.
  • When possible, use up all cleaning products to avoid disposing of partially filled containers.
  • Consider using non-toxic cleaning products. You can make your own using ingredients like baking soda, vinegar or plant-based soaps.

Disposal InformationDisposal Information

Read the labels on your cleaning products. Look for SIGNAL WORDS: Caution, Warning, Danger and Poison. Products labeled with these words contain ingredients that are hazardous. If you have leftover product to dispose of, bring it to a household hazardous waste drop-off site.



KNOW HOW:

Here are some tips to manage cleaning products safely:
  • Follow label directions when using cleaning products.
  • When possible, use up all cleaning products. Avoid throwing away partially filled containers.
  • Know what is in containers - add a new label if the old one is wearing off.
  • Do not mix different cleaning products. Poisonous gases may form.
  • If a cleaning product is designed to be mixed with water for use, it is likely safe to dispose of unused product down a sink, toilet or laundry tub basin. Call your county solid waste management office for more information.
  • Keep cleaning products out of the trash. If the product label reads: Caution, Warning, Danger or Poison, you may need to take it to your county's household hazardous waste drop-off site for reuse, recycling, or disposal.

If you must dispose of hazardous household cleaning products, contact your county solid waste office or visit the Household Hazardous Waste page to find a collection site nearest you.

For more information on proper disposal of hazardous household cleaners and other products, contact your county.