The best way to reduce the amount of HHW produced is to never make HHW in the first place by buying non-hazardous alternatives when appropriate. In the garden, consider natural bug repellents and compost rather than harsh insecticides and chemical fertilizers. Some traditional coatings, preservatives, and polishes have non-hazardous alternatives. In the garage, you can buy propylene-glycol-based antifreeze to replace the traditional kind and try a homemade lemon/club soda based recipe instead of traditional window washing fluid. Consider using traps rather than poisons for controlling mice and rats. Cedar chips make a great and better smelling alternative to mothballs. Please consult the Bellaire Recycles! website at www.bellairerecycles.org for a growing list of alternatives.

The most basic substitution that can be made is to substitute elbow grease for many of the hazardous products created to make life a little easier. Think about that the next time you reach for tile cleaner, oven cleaner, or tire cleaner.