
When most of us think of hazardous waste, we imagine the classic yellow 55-gallon drum with the black toxic symbol from TV or movies. But hazardous waste isn’t just something we see on the big screen—it’s much closer to home. In fact, many everyday products found in our houses, garages, offices, and businesses are considered hazardous.
So, what exactly is hazardous waste? It’s any product labeled as toxic, flammable, explosive, corrosive, or volatile—sometimes even marked with a skull and crossbones or other warning labels. Common examples include cleaning supplies, lithium batteries, pesticides, solvents, car fluids, and furniture stains. While these products serve important purposes, they must be disposed of properly. Hazardous waste can’t just be left out at the curb with your weekly trash pickup. That’s where the Berks County Solid Waste Authority steps in.
Protecting Berks County
Formed in 1992 by the Berks County Commissioners, the Berks County Solid Waste Authority is dedicated to protecting residents’ health and the environment. Part of their mission includes providing safe and convenient ways to manage hazardous waste.
One of the most important programs is the Household Hazardous Waste Cleanup Event—a chance for residents to safely clear out toxic products from their homes and businesses.
This event will take place on October 18, 2025, at the Berks County Agricultural Center from 8 AM to noon. This is a safe and easy way to get rid of the hazardous waste products in your home or business. The event is for Berks County residents ONLY and you must pre-register for it.
What Hazardous Waste Can You Bring?
The event accepts a wide range of materials, including:
- Floor & Furniture Polish
- Antifreeze
- Pool chemicals
- Lithium & NiCad batteries
- Fluorescent bulbs
Accepted Paint Products:
- Oil-based paints
- Turpentine
- Wood preservatives
- Paint thinners & solvents
- Varnishes & stains
Please Note: Latex, water-based, and acrylic paints are not accepted.
How to Safely Prepare Paint for Disposal
If you’re getting rid of paint, here’s how to ensure its properly prepared:
- Less than 1 inch of paint in the can: Remove the lid and air dry.
- More than 1 inch of paint: Mix with cat litter until solidified.
Once dried, remove the lid and place the can in your regular trash. Do not remove the dried paint from the can.
The Easy & Safe Clean Out
Please bring your hazardous waste products in their original labeled containers (tightly sealed) and put them in the trunk of your vehicle. If not in the original labeled containers, please label the containers used. Those working at the event will unload your car for you.
We hope you take part in this event! It’s a great way to clean out your home or business and to properly dispose of these products. When it comes to non-hazardous, large items such as furniture, rugs, and mattresses, Berks Transfer has you covered with our
Do-It-Yourself Drop Off Service.
Don’t let hazardous waste pile up in your garage or basement. Take advantage of the Berks County Household Hazardous Waste Cleanup Event and do your part to keep our community safe and clean.



