Household Hazardous Waste

What Is Household Hazardous Waste?

Household hazardous waste (HHW) includes common products found in and around the home that can pose a risk to human health or the environment if they are not handled or disposed of properly. These materials may be flammable, corrosive, toxic, or reactive, and should never be poured down drains, placed in household trash, or dumped outdoors.

While businesses that generate hazardous waste are subject to specific state regulations and certification requirements overseen by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, households also generate smaller quantities of hazardous materials. These household wastes are managed separately through municipal and regional collection programs.

Common examples of household hazardous waste include:

• Oil-based paints and stains

• Automotive fluids such as oil and antifreeze

• Pesticides and lawn chemicals

• Batteries

• Mercury-containing devices

• Fluorescent bulbs

Each year, the Town of Stratham participates in a regional Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, typically held in the fall, to provide residents with a safe and environmentally responsible way to dispose of these materials. This program is coordinated regionally to ensure proper handling, transportation, and disposal.