What is Household Hazardous Waste?

What is Household Hazardous Waste

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) is any waste produced in the home that is dangerous or potentially harmful to our health or the environment (Source: EPA - Hazardous Waste).

What Can Be Brought to HHW Events

If you have a question about an item not listed here, or would like to see an item added to the list, please send us a request by email.

Limit per household:

  • 15 gallons of liquid HHW    
    • Container size may not exceed five gallons  
  • 40 pounds of solid HHW

Note: The HHW events are for Loudoun County residents only.  No commercial waste or waste from businesses will be accepted. Residential property management agencies are not authorized to bring materials generated from residents or grounds.

  1. Acceptable Items
  2. Unacceptable Items
  • Ammonia
  • Animal Pet / Care Products
  • Batteries
    • Alkaline
    • Button
    • Household
    • Lithium
    • Ni-Cad
    • Rechargeable
  • Bleach
  • Brake Fluid
  • Chemicals
  • Cleaners
  • Diesel fuel*
  • Fertilizers with Pesticides or Herbicides
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • Fluorescent Bulbs / Tubes
  • Fuel Additives     
  • Gasoline
  • Herbicides
  • Insecticides
  • Kerosene*
  • Latex Paint**
  • Mercury
  • Mercury Thermometers
  • Mercury Thermostats
  • Mineral Spirits     
  • Oil-Based Paint        
  • Paint Thinner      
  • Pesticides
  • Photographic Chemicals
  • Solvents
  • Swimming Pool Chemicals
  • Unwanted Fuels
  • Windshield Washer Fluid

*May be taken to the Loudoun County Landfill Recycling Center where engine oil, antifreeze/coolant, and lead batteries are accepted free of charge. Do not recycle empty containers for motor oil, antifreeze, or other automotive fluids. Discard empty containers in waste receptacles provided next to the collection tanks.

Latex / water based paint is not hazardous. The cost for the county to dispose of latex / water based paint as a hazardous waste is much higher than disposing of it at the landfill. Latex paint will still be accepted at the HHW events as a convenience but residents are encouraged to take it to the Loudoun County Landfill for disposal instead (fee applies, $6 for the first 180 pounds).