How to Dispose of Old Cleaning Products
- 1). Read the manufacturers' labels on each product to identify potential hazards or toxins. If current disposal instructions are provided, follow the instructions exactly. Check the manufacturers' websites for additional information if needed.
- 2). Dispose of water-soluble cleaners and detergents by pouring these products slowly down the drain while wearing rubber gloves. Keep the water turned on and running while you pour out the product. Wash off the sink and surrounding surfaces with a sponge or damp paper towels to remove any traces of spilled or splashed product.
- 3). Contact your town or county waste disposal department to get the schedule for local hazardous products collection programs. Local government phone numbers are located in the blue pages section of the local phone book; some municipalities also have websites listing official departments and how to contact them.
- 4). Store hazardous, corrosive or acidic cleaning products safely until they can be properly disposed of through the hazardous waste collection program in your municipality. Put on rubber gloves and carefully stand the tightly sealed containers on a garage shelf away from excessive heat. This category includes toilet bowl, oven and drain cleaners, some corrosive bleaches and ammonia, among others.
