Make Spring Cleaning a Fall Activity (too)

Disposal Tips for When You Clear Out Hazardous Products

Feeling ambitious for the upcoming weekend? If you’ve put off cleaning out your garage or closets, here are some tips for recycling and disposing of what you toss.

Household Hazardous Products
The unused cleaning products or lawn chemicals with labels reading, Flammable, Hazardous, Keep out of Children’s Reach, these aren’t your regular trash. Much of it is recyclable or requires special disposal measures. Our Metro Hazardous Waste Drop-Off accepts most of these items from residential customers for free (up to 75 lbs.). 

Expedite Your Trip
To expedite your visit to the Metro Hazardous Waste Drop-Off, keep products in original containers when possible and do not combine contents. Place items in a cardboard box or container for easy transportation. Avoid using garbage or plastic bags. Make sure lids or caps are screwed on tight to avoid spills. Place compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in sealed plastic bags (see photo).

Our location is undergoing an expansion, and we plan to keep regular hours throughout the construction. We appreciate your patience and welcome feedback.

Other Accepted Items (Residents Only)
First-time visitors to our Metro Hazardous Waste Drop-Off don’t realize all the types of items they can drop-off with their leftover hazardous products. Here’s a list of other things you can bring. (Oh, and we also serve qualifying businesses, learn more.)

• Batteries – Free (up to 75 lbs.)
• CFLs – Free (up to 75 lbs.)
• Computers, computer-related items – Free, Unlimited
• Cooking Oil – Free, Unlimited (no grease)
• Curbside Recyclables Free, Unlimited
• Household Hazardous Products – Free, (up to 75 lbs.)
• Electronics - $0.50/lb.
• Latex Paint - $1/gallon (not hazardous and can be throw in trash once it’s solidified; learn how)
• Metal - Free
• Oil & Antifreeze Plastic Containers – Free, Unlimited
• Paper Shredding -- Free (up to 75 lbs.)
• Sharps, Needles & Syringes - Free, $2 fee if not properly contained
  Tires (four-time limit) - $3/tire

Throughout Central Iowa, recycling options are always expanding or evolving. If the Metro Hazardous Waste Drop-Off seems too far, check out our onlin Recycling
Guide. The Recycling Guide not only gives alternative options for hazardous products, but everything from A to Z – Appliances, Christmas Lights, License Plates and Medical Equipment.

For more information, visit www.WhereItShouldGo.com or call 515.244.0021.