Household Hazardous Materials Tips


If you can’t avoid the use of HHM or plan to store a quantity until the next time you need it, please remember these safety tips:


 Carefully read the labels and follow all instructions on use and disposal of both material and the container.


 Wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin contact, when applicable.


 Handle with care! Dealing with Paint


The best way to avoid excess paint is to calculate how much is needed before you start your project. Visit one of the websites below:


Benjamin Moore - www.benjaminmoore.com - 1) select your language, 2) select “For Your Home”, 3) click on “Learn How” and 4) click on “Paint Calculator” on the left.


Paint Quality Institute - www.paintquality.com - 1) click on “Paint Tools” under Homeowners drop-down menu and 2) click on “Paint Calculator” on the left.


Lowes - www.lowes.com - 1) click on “How to Projects” under Lowes Creative Ideas drop-down menu and 2) click on “Interior Paint Buying Guide” under Paint.


Other Tips to Keep in Mind


 Buy latex paint. It is easily applied and can be cleaned with soap and water.


 Use it up. If you can’t use the excess paint, give it to friends, relatives, theatrical grou ps, recreatio n departments and community service organizations. Give away only paint that is of good quality in its original container with the label intact.


 Save paint for future use. It will last for years if sealed tightly and stored where it will not freeze.


 If paint is dry, it can be disposed of in your regular trash. The lid must be removed so the hauler can see it is dry.


 If the paint is wet follow these directions: Page 15 For quantities greater than 1 inch left in the container.


1) Find a well-ventilated area that is protected from children and pets.


2) Add cat litter or sawdust to absorb the paint.


3) Every couple of days, stir the mixture to allow air to flow through. Depending on the type and quantity of paint you have, the drying process can be lengthy and may take from several days to several weeks.


4) When completely dry, discard with regular trash (put in box or bag).


5) Leave the lids off so the trash company can see that the paint is hardened.


For small quantities less than 1 inch left in the container.


1) Find a well-ventilated area that is protected from children and pets.


2) Remove the lid and allow the liquids to evaporate (make sure there is proper ventilation). Do not smoke near cans and avoid contact with the liquid or inhaling vapors.


3) When completely dry, discard with regular trash (put in box or bag).


4) Leave the lids off so the trash company can see that the paint is hardened.


NOTE: Small quantities of paint and aerosol sprays can be painted on cardboard or newspaper to use up. You can then dispose of the cardboard or newspaper in your regular trash.


 Keep HHM out of reach of children and pets.


 Store HHM in the original container so you always know what the product is and how to use it.


 Don’t mix HHM.  Don’t breathe HHM fumes  Don’t bury or burn HHM.


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