Chemical waste poses a threat to our environment, waterways and public health if not disposed of correctly. Flammable waste may also pose a serious safety risk to garbage truck operators if it catches on fire.
For these reasons, chemicals should never go in your kerbside bins or down drains.
Please safely store your household problem waste in clearly labelled containers, in a cool dry place away from children and pets until you can dispose of them at a Chemical CleanOut event.
- handle and transport chemicals carefully
- never mix chemicals as this may produce dangerous reactions
- wherever possible keep all chemicals in their original containers as they may corrode or melt through the wrong type of container
- make sure that containers are clearly labelled and well-sealed
- if you do not know the contents, label the container 'unknown chemical'
- liquid can leak during transport so wrap containers holding liquids securely in newspaper, place in sturdy plastic bags and then in plastic buckets or trays
- keep household chemicals away from passengers, for example, by placing them in the boot of your car
Household Chemical CleanOut days are held in the Shoalhaven annually to help residents dispose of their chemical waste at no-charge.
What can I take to a CleanOut event?
You can take up to a maximum of 20L (or 20kg) of each type listed below:
- solvents and household cleaners
- floor care products
- ammonia-based cleaners
- pesticides and herbicides
- poisons
- pool chemicals
- hobby chemicals
- motor fuels
- fluorescent globes and tubes
- acids and alkalis
- smoke detectors
- paint and paint-related products
- gas bottles
- fire extinguishers
- car and household batteries
- motor oils and cooking oils
Like the name implies, Household Chemical CleanOut events are limited to domestic quantities of chemical waste. Commercial quantities are not accepted.
When is the next CleanOut event?
Shoalhaven CleanOut events are over for 2024.
Upcoming dates and locations for Household Chemical Cleanouts are also listed on the events and workshops calendar.
You can subscribe to our ReNewsable newsletter to be notified of upcoming events.