Chemicals

Household chemicals are hazardous and should never be put in your recycling or garbage bin at home. If chemical waste is not handled correctly, it can have a serious impact on the environment. Household chemicals should be disposed of responsibly through specialised recycling and safe disposal services.

Household chemicals should never be put on the kerb for council collection or poured on the ground, down the drain or toilet, or into sewers. Chemicals that are disposed of improperly can make their way into the environment, putting wildlife, waterways, and human health at risk.

Keep these out of your waste and recycling bin

Household chemical waste and hazardous materials include:

• household cleaners
• automotive products
• garden chemicals
• paints
• thinners
• adhesives
• varnishes
• pool cleaners
• batteries
• gas canisters/bottles
• asbestos
• oils
• fluorescent tubes and globes

Most councils will accept these items at designated collection points, however, it may vary. Please check with your council beforehand to find out what items can be taken to their listed depot or chemical clean-up day.

Hazardous waste disposal in NSW

The NSW EPA is working with local councils to provide drop-off events for old or leftover chemicals that can be found around the home.

Household quantities of the following chemicals are accepted at chemical clean-out events:

• Paint & paint related products
• Pesticides, herbicides, and poisons
• Solvents and household cleaners
• Motor oils, fuels, and fluids
• Batteries
• Gas bottles and fire extinguishers
• Pool chemicals
• Acids and alkalis
• Hobby chemicals
• Fluorescent tubes

To find a Household Chemical Clean-Out event near you, visit the NSW EPA's website.

Community Recycling Centres in NSW

Community Recycling Centres (CRCs) are permanent drop-off centres for common household problem wastes that can’t be put in garbage or recycling bins at home. NSW residents can drop off problematic types of waste at these centres year round, free of charge.

Items accepted at CRCs include:

• Paint
• Gas bottles
• Fire extinguishers
• Motor oils and other oils
• Car batteries
• Household batteries
• Smoke detectors
• Fluoro globes and tubes

Visit the Community Recycling Centres page on the NSW EPA website for more information and locations.

How to dispose of other chemicals and hazardous waste

Asbestos
As asbestos is classed as a hazardous material it may only be disposed of at certain locations in Australia. Find out how to safely dispose of asbestos.

Medicines
Old and unwanted medicines around the home are a household hazard and can be dangerous if consumed when they are expired, not prescribed for you, or within reach of children. To find out how to safely dispose of unwanted medicines.

Farm chemicals
Farm chemicals can be disposed of through the ChemClear Program.
If your business has large quantities of farm chemicals to dispose of, visit Business Recycling to find a suitable service near you.