Household Hazardous Waste

Disposing of Household Hazardous Waste in Arkansas City

Waste Oil and Antifreeze

The Cowley County Transfer Station will accept used automobile oil to burn in a waste-oil heater. Used antifreeze should also be drained into its sturdy plastic container. Do not mix the used oil with water or other products. 
Contact Cowley County Transfer Station (620)-221-4307 for additional instructions and disposal times.

Other Automotive Products Examples: 

• Transmission Fluids
• Brake Fluids
• Waste Oils
• Tires

Batteries

The best way to dispose of used automotive batteries is to return your old one to the company from which you are purchasing a new one. The law requires that they receive your old battery. 

You must notify the transfer station attendant that you have a car battery so that it can be recycled appropriately. 

Nickel-cadmium (nicad) or lithium rechargeable batteries should be recycled. Alkaline batteries may be placed in your regular trash. 

Paint

The best way to dispose of any paint is to use it all up. Consider applying a second or third coat if it allows you to avoid having to dispose of unused paint.

• To safely dispose of extra latex paint, leave the paint can open in a well-ventilated and secured area so that it can solidify. Dried latex paint is stable and does not significantly threaten groundwater or soils. Once dried, the paint may be placed in the trash for disposal. Leave the lid off the paint can so the collection crews know the paint is dried thoroughly. 
• Oil-based paints are more difficult to dry in a paint can. To expedite the paint drying process, pour it into a plastic-lined box to increase the exposed surface area and mix it with absorbent materials such as kitty litter or sawdust. All handling should be away from children and animals.

Paint/Finishing Products Examples: 

• Enamel or Oil-Based Paints
• Rust Paints
• Thinners and Turpentine
• Furniture Strippers
• Wood Preservatives
• Stain/Finishes

Pesticides

Use pesticides according to label directions, but use them sparingly. If the product's shelf life expires or you need assistance, contact the Cowley County Transfer Station at (620) 221-4307.

Garden/Pest Control Products Examples:

• Pesticides, Household Insecticides
• Fungicides
• Arsenicals (Contain Lead Arsenic)
• Botanicals (Made of Plants)
• Carbonates
• Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
• Organo-Phosphates
• Roach and Ant Killers
• Rat and Mice Poisons
• Herbicides

Solvents

Solvents such as paint thinner can be reused by allowing the solids to settle to the bottom of the container, then pouring off the clear liquid into a well-labeled container for reuse later. The solids can then be dried and thrown away. Call the Cowley County Transfer Station at (620) 221-4307 to get specific disposal options.

Household/Cleaning Products Examples:

• Oven Cleaners
• Toilet Cleaners
• Photographic Chemicals
• Disinfectants
• Drain Cleaners
• Rug and Upholstery Cleaners
• Floor and Furniture Cleaners
• Bleach Cleaners
• Mothballs
• Pool Chemicals
• Ammonia-Based Cleaners
• Abrasive Cleaners or Powders