Cleaning Products

Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Recycle Container

If your cleaning products aren’t empty and you don’t need them anymore, consider giving them away to neighbors or drop off at a hazardous waste collection program.

If the container is empty, then check on the type of plastic it is made from.  Only #1, #2 or #5,  will be recyclable. 

cleaning-product-liquids

Dilute Liquids, Powders and Gels

It’s OK to flush small amounts of cleaning product down the drain, but only if they’re liquid, powder or gel. Here’s a list of flushable products: bleach, drain cleaner, tub/tile cleaner, carpet cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner and drain opener. Never dispose of these products in the storm drain; storm drains go directly to lakes and rivers.

Solids Go in the Trash

Solid household cleaning products go in the trash: pads, sheets, pastes, crystals, disks, sticks and towelettes. Don’t flush any of these items down the drain.

wipes

Never Flush Wipes Down Drain

Wipes are a “solid” because they are sheets, so never flush them down the drain. Wipes do not break down as they move onto the water treatment plant, and will end up clogging their screens. Find out more.

Dispose of Empties

Empty cleaning product bottles are often recycled but not always. Find out what to do with empty containers.

Ways to Reduce

Purchase Natural Cleaners

Consider switching to more eco-friendly cleaners. Chemical cleaners can expose your household to a variety of harmful ingredients and VOCs. They can also introduce more chemicals into the environment when they are washed down the drain. Check out the EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning or follow these easy recipes from Real Simple to make your own natural cleaners.

Use Up Products

Avoid throwing away partially full bottles; try to use up the cleaning product completely before disposing of it. This increases the lifespan of these products, reduces waste and saves money.