Bathroom

The symbols under “Disposal Method” suggest the best disposal procedure for each hazardous product listed. The following disposal symbols mean:
Pour down the drain with plenty of water. If you use a septic tank, take special caution. Read the product labels to determine if it will be harmful to your septic tank. If it is, take to the Household Hazardous Waste Program.
Place in the garbage.
Recycle.
Always try to use up or recycle the product first. If this is not possible, take to a Household Hazardous Waste Drop Site, find vendors at the Spokane Waste Directory or call the Recycling Information Hotline at 509-477-6800.

Hazardous Materials & Alternatives in the Bathroom

Type of WasteDisposal MethodAlternatives/Tips
Chlorine bleachUse borax to whiten. If you use bleach, choose non-chlorine dry bleach. Never mix chlorine bleach with other products.
Deodorizer / air freshenerOpen windows. Place an open box of baking soda in closets and refrigerator. Simmer cloves and cinnamon in water. For carpets: Mix 1 part borax with 2 parts commeal; sprinkle liberally, wait 1 hour, and vacuum up. For litter box: Sprinkle baking soda in bottom of box before adding litter.
DisinfectantTo discourage mold or mildew, use ½ cup borax in 1 gallon hot water. Do not rinse off the borax solution. Borax is not a disinfectant.
MedicineSubstances in medicines vary; call Recycling Hotline for more information.
MercuryCollect spilled metal in glass bottle. Obtain medical assistance is exposure is significant. Choose a flex-tape, electronic or other non-mercury thermometer.
Nail Polish RemoverLeave your nails unpolished.
Shoe dyeApply beeswax of cold-pressed nut oils to leather. Test oils first in an inconspicuous place to determine whether they will stain the leather. Buff to a shine with a chamois cloth.
Toilet, tub and tile cleanerUse baking soda or non-chlorine based scouring powder.
Click an image below to view the chart for that category.