Wood preservative disposal

Wood preservatives that contain creosote or pentachlorophenol or wood preservatives that cannot be used up, should be safely stored until you can dispose of them at Eurobodalla's annual chemical cleanout.

• Check the product label. If your wood preservatives do not contain creosote or pentachlorophenol, the best way to dispose of leftovers is to use them up.
• If you can't use your leftover wood preservatives, give them to someone who can - landscapers, friends or neighbours may be able to use them.

True wood preservatives contain chemicals that can become a health and environmental hazard. Improper disposal (in the garbage, on the ground or down the drain or stormwater) can contaminate lakes, streams and other drinking water supplies.

Sealants and stains are not always true wood preservatives

• True wood preservatives contain chemicals that are poisonous to the organisms that make wood decay or rot.
• Some products such as sealants and stains protect the wood by keeping out water, but these are paint products, not wood preservatives.
• If you have sealants or stains to dispose of, find out more on our paint disposal page.