EB 1386 

Disposal guidelines presented in this publication are restricted to "home use" pesticides commonly applied in and around residential dwellings by unlicensed pesticide users.

Home and apartment dwellers who practice do-it-yourself pest control are confronted with chemical disposal problems because they often purchase much more pesticide than they can use in a reasonable period of time. This often results in the accumulation of partially filled pesticide containers and speculation about how best to dispose of these chemicals.

Although pesticides are poisons designed to kill pest organisms, they are sold to the public in formulations that are minimally hazardous to the user. In fact, most people buy their pesticides in supermarkets; however, pesticides are hazardous chemicals requiring proper disposal. Safe and legal disposal of pesticides may be accomplished by adhering to the following guidelines:

• Avoid disposal problems by purchasing only as much chemical as may realistically be used within two years. However, please be advised that if the product container is tightly sealed and has been stored in cool, dark conditions, the pesticide will most likely retain its potency for many years.
  
  
• Dispose of unused pesticides by using them per label directions. Immediately upon application, sunlight, soil micro-organisms, and various chemical processes begin to destroy (degrade) these chemicals. Degradation of properly applied pesticides is relatively rapid and very important in preventing long-term environmental contamination.
  
  
• If you determine that a pesticide is unusable and you need advice about proper disposal, contact your county health office regarding their disposal policies and programs. Many counties and municipalities periodically conduct household hazardous waste collection programs (supported by local taxes) that assure proper disposal for these chemicals.
  
  
• Never dispose of any hazardous chemical by flushing it down the drain or toilet. Contamination of any waterway (including a sewage system) is illegal and potentially damaging to aquatic plants and animals.
  
  
• Before disposing of any "empty" pesticide container, remove as much of the product as possible. Dry pesticide formulations often come in paper or cardboard containers. Dispose of these containers in the garbage after a thorough shaking/patting. Dispose of liquid pesticide containers after pesticide residues have been removed by rinsing the container with water at least three times. Dispose of the rinsate by adding it to the sprayer and applying it per label directions.
  
  
• Do not place pesticide containers in kitchen garbage compactors or attempt to burn them in a home fireplace, woodstove, or "burn barrel." Dispose of all empty pesticide containers (including aerosol containers) by placing them in the garbage for shipment to a sanitary landfill.
  

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