Cleaners, medications and cosmetics disposal

On this page you'll find answers to some frequently asked questions about cleaners, medications and cosmetics and how to dispose of them safely.

Is it safe to dispose of cleaners, medications and cosmetics?

It is better to use up leftover products than to throw them away. Friends, relatives and neighbours may have a use for leftover cleaners. You should never give away medications, especially if they have been prescribed to you.

Which cleaners are a disposal problem?

Cleaners that contain solvents can become a hazard to the environment. Some spot removers, floor and car waxes, furniture polishes and degreasers contain solvents.

Your cleaners contain solvents if any of the following warnings are on the product labels:

• flammable
• combustible
• contains petroleum distillates or aromatic hydrocarbons or hydrocarbons.

Cleaners that contain solvents should not be disposed of down a drain, in the garbage bin or down the toilet.

How can I get rid of cleaners containing solvents?

The best way to get rid of cleaners containing solvents is to use them up or give them to someone else to use. Friends, relatives and community organisations may have a use for your leftover cleaners. If you can't find a way to use up your leftover cleaners, you can store them until there is a household chemical cleanout collection, which is held annually in the Eurobodalla.

Which medications are a disposal problem?

Chemotherapy medications should not be poured down the drain, thrown in the garbage bin or flushed down a toilet. Do not dispose of prescription medication in a place where children or pets could access them. Most chemists or pharmacists will accept out of date medication or take the medications to the household chemical cleanout collection.