.png){kind=small}
Hazardous Waste Disposal in New Jersey: What Homeowners Need to Know
- ReGenesis Materials
- Jun 6
- 5 min read
If you’ve recently stumbled upon items like old paint cans, leaking batteries, cleaning chemicals, or motor oil during spring cleaning, you might be wondering, “What do I do with these?”
You’re not alone, and it’s important to understand that these materials are considered hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. Improper disposal can cause significant harm to both health and the environment, so let’s break down exactly what hazardous waste is, why it’s dangerous, and how to dispose of it responsibly in New Jersey.
What is Household Hazardous Waste (HHW)?
Household hazardous waste refers to everyday products that are toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive. These items are found in many homes, often stored in garages, basements, or utility closets. Common household items that qualify as hazardous waste include:
Battery Fluid: Often found in car batteries, this fluid is typically sulfuric acid, which is corrosive and toxic.
Motor Oil and Antifreeze: These automotive fluids can pollute water sources and harm animals if spilled.
Old Paint and Paint Thinners: These contain chemicals that can contaminate the air and water if not disposed of properly.
Household Cleaners and Disinfectants: Items like bleach, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals are dangerous when mishandled.
Pesticides and Fertilizers: These chemicals can cause long-term environmental damage if they enter the water system.
Mercury-containing Items: Items like thermometers, fluorescent bulbs, and some electronics contain mercury, a toxic substance that can cause neurological damage.
These products should never be tossed in your curbside trash or recycling bin. Not only is it illegal, but it also poses risks to sanitation workers, wildlife, and your local environment.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Improper disposal of hazardous waste can result in:
Contaminated Water Supplies: Toxic chemicals can leach into the water supply, affecting both drinking water and aquatic ecosystems.
Harm to Sanitation Workers: Improperly disposed hazardous waste can cause burns, poisonings, and other health issues for workers.
Soil and Air Pollution: When these materials are disposed of incorrectly, they can contaminate the soil and release harmful fumes into the air.
Fines and Legal Consequences: Improper disposal can lead to hefty fines or criminal charges for illegal dumping.
How to Safely Dispose of Hazardous Waste in New Jersey
New Jersey has made it easier for homeowners to dispose of hazardous waste by offering a variety of programs and drop-off locations across the state. Each county in New Jersey runs its own Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) program, typically offering collection events throughout the year or permanent drop-off sites.
To Find a Disposal Location Near You:
Search online for: “household hazardous waste disposal [your county] NJ”
For example:
Mercer County hosts HHW events multiple times a year.
Camden County offers seasonal collection days.
Middlesex County has a permanent drop-off site.
Bergen, Gloucester, and Ocean Counties also provide similar programs.
How to Handle Hazardous Waste Before Disposal
Before you take hazardous waste to your local recycling center, follow these tips to keep yourself, your family, and the environment safe:
Keep Materials in Original Containers: The original packaging will have important safety information and prevent spills.
Store Safely: Keep hazardous materials away from heat, flames, or areas where children or pets can reach them.
Don’t Open or Mix Containers: Don’t open chemical containers, and never mix different chemicals together.
Use a Sturdy Box for Transport: Pack hazardous materials in a sturdy box or bin, lined with newspaper or absorbent materials to prevent leaks.
Transport in an Upright Position: Always keep containers upright during transportation to avoid spills.
Can You Neutralize Battery Acid at Home?
Some online sources suggest neutralizing sulfuric acid with baking soda. While this may technically work, it’s not recommended for homeowners due to the risks involved, such as:
Exothermic Reaction: The neutralization process generates heat, which can lead to burns.
Toxic Lead Particles: Older batteries may contain lead, which can be harmful if exposed to the air.
Disposal Challenges: Disposing of the resulting solution safely is difficult.
For your safety, bring automotive fluids like motor oil and battery acid to your local HHW facility for proper disposal.
Other Common Household Waste in New Jersey
While hazardous waste requires careful handling and special disposal methods, many New Jersey homeowners also generate a variety of recyclable materials that can be processed and reused. At ReGenesis, we specialize in the collection and recycling of Class A materials, which include:
Paper: Newspapers, cardboard boxes, office paper, and other paper products.
Plastics: Bottles, containers, and packaging, which are processed to create new products.
Glass: Beverage bottles, jars, and containers that can be recycled into new glass items.
Metals: Aluminum cans, foil, and steel that are smelted and reused in manufacturing.
By separating these materials from your hazardous waste, you help keep our recycling systems running smoothly. Your recyclables are processed at facilities like ours, which ensure that materials such as paper and plastic are turned into new products, reducing waste and supporting a sustainable environment.
How You Can Help
When cleaning out your home, don’t forget about these recyclable materials! Regenesis Recycling accepts a wide range of Class A materials from homeowners across New Jersey. While hazardous waste requires special handling, your recyclable materials can be safely dropped off at our facility for processing.
By recycling these everyday items responsibly, you're not only preventing contamination but also contributing to the circular economy. So, the next time you're clearing out your garage, basement, or attic, make sure to set aside recyclables like paper, plastics, glass, and metals—materials that are key to our sustainable future.
Additional Household Items to Watch For
Besides the common items mentioned above, here are some other household products that are considered hazardous waste:
Used Filters: From air conditioners, vacuum cleaners, or fish tanks.
Old Electronics: Many contain hazardous metals like lead or mercury.
Old Batteries: Alkaline, rechargeable, and button batteries all need proper disposal.
Expired Medications: Dispose of old pharmaceuticals at designated collection points.
How to Practice Waste Reduction Through Responsible Recycling
By properly disposing of hazardous materials, you contribute to waste reduction efforts and help ensure that non-recyclable waste doesn’t contaminate recyclable materials. Many recycling centers also accept other types of waste, such as:
Styrofoam Recycling
Cardboard Recycling
Plastic Bag Recycling (often accepted at grocery stores)
Glass and Paper Recycling Stations
Use this opportunity to clean out your garage or shed and bring all eligible items to your local recycling center.
As a homeowner, it’s essential to be responsible for the materials you store and discard. Whether it's leftover paint or an old thermometer, always opt for safe and environmentally friendly disposal methods. By properly managing hazardous waste, you help protect the environment and ensure a safer community for everyone.
For more information on safe recycling and disposal, visit your local recycling center or check out these resources:
🌿 About ReGenesis Materials
As a Class A recycling facility based in Voorhees, NJ, ReGenesis Materials processes high-volume recyclables like cardboard, aluminum, paper, plastic, and glass. We partner with municipalities, haulers, and businesses to ensure material recovery is clean, compliant, and sustainable.
Interested in a recycling partnership or educational outreach? Contact us today to schedule a site tour or set up a program for your building, office park, or community.
Comments