Hazardous Waste
Almost every household and business contain products that can potentially damage human health or the environment. Cleaning products, automotive fluids, yard care products, and other household chemicals need to be used, stored, and disposed of safely to protect ourselves and our environment.
Disposal of Toxics
When it is time to dispose of old or unused chemicals, never throw them in the household trash. Regular landfills are not designed to hold hazardous waste, and chemicals thrown in the household trash can pollute the soil and water. You can bring hazardous waste from your home to the Disposal of Toxics (DoT) Facility for free. Pre-approved small businesses can also bring their hazardous waste for a fee.
Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics accepts the following items:
- Used oil and fuels
- Automotive product
- Cleaners
- Fluorescent lamps - up to 10 bulbs per day
- Latex paint
- Lawn & garden chemicals
- Mercury thermometers and other devices
- Oil-based paint & paint products
- Solvents
- Rechargeable Batteries (Not Alkaline batteries)
Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics can NOT accept the following items:
- Ammunition
- Asbestos
- Biomedical waste
- Dried latex paint
- Empty containers
- Explosives
- Radioactive waste
- Unapproved business waste
Small businesses can be authorized to dispose of some hazardous waste at the DoT Facility. Get prices and participation information below, and call the DoT Facility for details.
Location
3505 Airport Drive
Bellingham, WA 98225
Phone Number
360-380-4640
Hours
Monday – Friday, 9 am - 4 pm
First Saturday of each month, 9 am - 4 pm
Household Toxic Safety
Follow these tips to protect you and your household from toxic materials in household products.
- Buy only what you need, and substitute less toxic or non-toxic materials when possible.
- Follow safety precautions and other instructions on the product label.
- Keep all hazardous products out of the reach of children and pets.
- Never pour chemicals into storm drains, sewers, septic systems, or onto the ground.
- Know where you will store and dispose of materials before beginning a do-it-yourself project.
- Keep all fluids separate and labeled to make proper recycling and disposal easier.
- Some cleaners contain hazardous ingredients that can burn your eyes, skin, or lungs. Choose eco-friendly and non-toxic products using EPA Safer Choice or explore DIY alternatives:
- All-purpose Cleaner: Pour ¼ cup white vinegar into a 16-oz. spray bottle, then fill almost to the top with water. Add 1 1⁄2 teaspoons of non-antibacterial liquid dish soap. Shake well before using.
- Ovens: Prevent the need! Line the bottom of the oven with aluminum foil and clean spills right away. Try a cleaner without lye or a non-chlorine scouring powder, or try soap, water, and a copper scrubber.
- Drains: Use a drain snake. Pour boiling water down a slow drain to prevent clogs, or try a product that uses enzymes to break down grease and soap.
- Toilet Bowls: Sprinkle baking soda and white vinegar into the toilet bowl and scrub with a toilet brush. Use a pumice stone to remove lime.
- Learn more about DIY alternatives at the University of Arkansas Extension’s Clean and Green Homemade Cleaners page.
Additional Resources
