Go Toxic Free: Sorting through household chemicals

Many household products you use in your yard and home can be harmful to people, fish and wildlife if used or disposed of incorrectly. Product labels with the words “danger,” “warning,” or “caution” indicate potential hazards if the chemical product is misused, spilled, or disposed of improperly. Never dispose of your household toxic trash down the sink, on the ground, down a storm drain. Help keep your family and our environment safe with just a few simple tips: * Consider using safer products. Many websites are devoted to letting people know which products are safer for people and the environment. The Spokane Neighborhood Action Program’s (SNAP) Living Green Program is an example. * Always ask yourself, “Do I really need to buy this?” * Read labels to avoid products that are tagged “danger” or “poison.” Buy the right amount of product for the job so you won’t have left-over toxic chemicals; this can also save you a trip to a household hazardous waste turn-in site. * Make a low-cost, very effective household cleaning kit with white vinegar, baking soda, borax, castile soap, and a spray bottle. Recipes for safe cleaning solutions can be found on our website www.ecy.wa.gov/toxicfreetips . A little elbow grease will help these greener cleaners go the distance. Learn what’s in your household products, including personal care products: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Household Products Database.