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Safely storing household hazardous waste

If you must store chemicals in your home for a short term, it is critical to store them safely and properly until you can deposit them at a designated depot. Safe storage methods may differ, but instructions are typically provided on the product label or directions enclosed with the packaging.

Look for symbols on the label that indicate flammable, corrosive or toxic hazards. If you are in doubt, contact the retailer from whom you purchased the product and request a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). The MSDS provides key information and safety recommendations related to the product.

To learn more about proper disposal, please view our There's a Good Place for Bad Stuff guide.

Practical suggestions for safe storage

Flammable liquids
Store flammable liquids preferably outside in a metal cabinet or in an unheated area. Never store near an open flame or spark. Flammable liquids include gasoline, camp stove fuel, paint thinner and lamp oil.

Corrosive materials
Store corrosive materials in a place such as a plastic tub or tray where the product can't spill out if the container leaks. Examples of corrosive materials are drain cleaners, bleach and acids.

All household hazardous waste
Store all house hold hazardous waste out of the reach of children and pets. Household chemicals should never be accessible to those who are not aware of their proper use or application. In some cases, a label may recommend not storing one product with another. Take care to separate the products into different storage areas.

To learn more about what household chemicals are accepted at drop-off locations, visit accepted household hazardous waste.