Paint cans

Household Hazardous Waste

Words such as caution, warning, dangerous and flammable on the label of any product indicate that the product is potentially hazardous. The majority of these items can not go in your regular garbage can. If not used and disposed of properly, these products (paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, pesticides, etc.) can harm your health and the environment.

Tips for handling, using & disposing HHW

  • Use up products before purchasing new
  • Store in original container and keep label intact
  • Purchase amounts that can be easily used up
  • Store away from heat and flames
  • Read and follow label safety directions
  • Store out of reach of children
  • Do not use pesticides older than 10 years
  • Store in dry place; prevent freezing
  • Never mix products together (especially those containing bleach with those containing ammonia—a toxic gas can form)
  • Consider making your own earth-friendly household cleaners.

Disposing HHW at home

Before bringing items to HHW disposal sites or events, check the lists below to see if they can be handled safely at home.

Flush with lots of water down your sink or toilet, but not in septic tank systems:

  • toilet cleaner
  • disinfectant
  • disinfectant cleaner with bleach*
  • cleaner with ammonia*
  • liquid soaps and detergents

Dry completely, remove lids, and place in the trash:

  • small amount of latex paint
  • latex caulk, glaze, spackle & adhesives
  • empty containers
  • putty, grout
  • cosmetics

*Never mix products containing bleach with those containing ammonia. A toxic gas can form.

Contacts

  • Solid Waste Coordinator

    952-548-6351

Year round HHW disposal sites

Hennepin County provides two permanent household hazardous waste disposal sites.

Locations

Hennepin County Recycling Center & Transfer Station
8100 Jefferson Highway, Brooklyn Park

South Hennepin Recycling & Problem Waste Drop-Off Center
1400 W 96th St, Bloomington

Hours

Tuesday–Friday, 10 am–6 pm
(Wednesdays until 8 pm)
Saturday 8 am–5 pm
Closed on Sundays, Mondays and holidays.

Accepted Items & Fees

For a list of items accepted at these sites, visit the Hennepin County website.