01/18/2012
Good sustainable practices also include proper disposal techniques. Follow label directions, if provided. If there are no directions:
Think about how you use the product. If it mixes with water, it's water-soluble. Most liquid, gel and powder water-soluble household cleaning products can be disposed of down the drain with running water – just like when you use them.
Most solid products (soap scouring pads, sticks, towelettes, etc.) can be placed in the trash. For other products (such as oven cleaners, crystal drain openers and furniture polishes), call the manufacturer's toll-free number (or visit their website) for disposal recommendations, or check with your local waste disposal facility.
Don't reuse containers for any other purposes.
Once the container is empty, be sure to dispose of it properly. Check with your community's recycling center to see what type of plastic, paperboard and metal containers they accept. Refer to local guidelines for recycling plastics, paperboard and aerosol cans (steel and/or aluminum). In many communities, items like aerosol cans and containers that contain disinfectants, drain cleaners, etc. are part of special hazardous waste collection events.
To locate your nearest recycling centers for cleaning product containers, as well as other items such as paint, batteries, electronics and hazardous waste, visit www.earth911.com.
Guide to local resources including recycling centers, how to recycle, pollution prevention and how help protect the environment.
