The Arlington Environmental Collection and Recycling Event (E-CARE) offers Arlington residents a convenient and responsible way to dispose of household hazardous materials (HHM) and old electronics. This biannual event ensures these items are handled safely, protecting our community and environment.
Please note: Bicycle donations will not be collected at the Spring E-CARE 2025. Additionally, large appliances and items containing refrigerants like dehumidifiers and wine fridges cannot be accepted.
Before you head to E-CARE, consider coordinating with your neighbors to consolidate items and reduce trips. Please remember that business and commercial waste are not permitted. This event is exclusively for Arlington residents – please bring your ID for verification. E-CARE will proceed rain or shine.
Mark Your Calendar: Spring 2025 E-CARE Details
Spring 2025 E-CARE Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Location: Wakefield High School parking lot, 1325 S. Dinwiddie St., Arlington, VA.
Get Directions via Google Maps
For efficient drop-off, access the site via South Dinwiddie, east of Wakefield. View the detailed event map (PDF, 587KB) for routing information.
Year-Round Disposal Options: If you can’t make it to E-CARE, Arlington County provides year-round options for disposing of specific materials:
- Household Hazardous Materials (HHM)
- Metal, Appliances, and Electronics
- Inert Material and Paper Shredding
Accepted Materials at E-CARE
E-CARE simplifies the disposal of a wide range of household hazardous waste and recyclable items. Here’s a list of what you can bring:
- Automotive fluids (oil, antifreeze, etc.)
- Batteries (car and household)
- Car care products (waxes, cleaners)
- Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs)
- Corrosives (acids, caustics, drain cleaners)
- Fire extinguishers
- Flammable solvents (thinners, adhesives)
- Fluorescent tubes
- Fuels and petroleum products (gasoline, kerosene)
- Household cleaners
- Lawn and garden chemicals (pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers)
- Mercury-containing items
- Paint products (latex and oil-based, limit of 25 cans)
- Photographic chemicals
- Poisons (pesticides, rodenticides)
- Printer ink and toner cartridges
- Propane gas cylinders (small handheld to larger BBQ size)
- Small metal items (pots, pans, tools)
- Smoke detectors
- Swimming pool chemicals
Materials Not Accepted at E-CARE
For safety and logistical reasons, E-CARE cannot accept certain materials. Please do not bring the following:
- Asbestos
- Explosives and ammunition
- Freon-containing items
- Medical waste
- Prescription medications
- Radioactive materials
Electronics Recycling at E-CARE and Beyond
E-CARE is an excellent opportunity to recycle your old electronics. Accepted items include: computers, printers, keyboards, scanners, copiers, cell phones, and televisions (excluding large wooden console TVs).
For year-round electronics disposal, Arlington residents can schedule curbside pickup for these items (excluding old-style cathode ray tube TVs and monitors) by submitting an online request for electronics pickup or calling 703-228-5000, Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
You can also drop off electronics at the Electronics Collection and Recycling Center. Note that there are fees for recycling old-style cathode ray televisions ($20) and computer monitors ($15). Payment must be made in exact cash or check payable to “Arlington County Treasurer.” All other screen and monitor drop-offs are free.
Small Metal Item and Mercury Disposal
Small metal items are easily handled at E-CARE. If you miss the event, you can schedule a curbside pickup or drop them off at the County’s Earth Products Yard.
E-CARE also facilitates the safe collection of devices containing mercury, such as thermostats, thermometers, and CFL bulbs.
Learn more about responsible waste disposal in Arlington.
Bike Donations: Supporting Bikes for the World (Not at Spring 2025 E-CARE)
While bike donations won’t be accepted at the Spring 2025 E-CARE, consider donating serviceable and repairable bikes to Bikes for the World. This organization provides bikes to individuals in developing countries for essential transportation. For donation inquiries, call 703-740-7856.
HHM Drop-Off Best Practices for E-CARE
To ensure a smooth and safe drop-off experience, please follow these guidelines:
- Keep materials in their original containers whenever possible and ensure proper labeling.
- For leaking containers, use over-packing to prevent spills during transport.
- E-CARE is for hazardous materials and recyclables only; non-hazardous trash will not be accepted.
- Commercial and business waste is prohibited.
- Bring your Arlington residency ID for verification.
- Materials are only accepted during the event’s designated hours.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited at the drop-off location.
Pro Tip for Efficient Unloading: Load your vehicle strategically! Place small metal items in first, followed by electronics, and finally HHMs. This reverse order loading will significantly speed up your unloading process at the event.
By participating in Arlington E-CARE, you contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Arlington for everyone.
