How to Dispose of Aerosol Spray Cans
Aerosol cans are made of high-grade steel or aluminum, which makes them valuable for metal recycling. However, because they contain pressurized propellant gas, half-full aerosol cans pose serious explosion and fire hazards inside collection trucks and metal shredders.
Completely empty aerosol cans (hairspray, cooking spray, shaving cream, spray paint) made of steel or aluminum can be placed in your curbside blue recycling bin in most cities. If the can still hisses or contains pressurized liquid, it is a hazardous explosion risk and must go to a county household hazardous waste (HHW) drop-off facility.
📋 Disposal Quick Decision Matrix
| Disposal Method | Allowed? | Preparation & Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Completely Empty Aerosol Cans | Yes | Depress nozzle until completely silent with no propellant; place in blue cart |
| Half-Full Spray Paint & Solvents | Drop-Off Only | Contains chemical propellants; take to county household hazardous waste drop-off |
| Plastic Spray Caps | Yes | Remove plastic cap and discard in regular recycling or trash per hauler rules |
| Puncturing or Crushing Cans DIY | No | Never puncture cans at home; pressurized contents can ignite and flash fire |
Check your municipal solid waste guidelines for aerosol recycling policies and local HHW drop-off schedules. Always verify your local municipal hauler requirements before placing large items at the curb.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Shake the can next to your ear. If you feel or hear liquid sloshing, it is not empty. Hold the nozzle down outdoors in a safe area until no sound or spray escapes.
Empty cans are safe for curbside recycling. Cans that are clogged or still contain chemical paint, insecticides, or oven cleaners must be set aside for hazardous waste collection.
Pull the outer plastic cap off. In most cities, the cap can be recycled with mixed plastics or placed in regular trash.
Toss empty metal cans into your blue cart. Do not crush or puncture the canister before placing it in the bin.
⚠️ Important Rules to Avoid Fines & Hazards
- Never puncture, crush, or heat aerosol cans; residual pressure can cause the metal canister to explode, spraying shrapnel.
- Partially full aerosol cans containing insecticides, spray paint, or caustic cleaners must never be placed in household trash carts.
- Never dispose of aerosol cans in a campfire, barrel burn, or outdoor fireplace.
Our directory covers verified US municipal sanitation guides with direct contact numbers, hauler websites, and neighborhood collection rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can empty aerosol cans go in the blue recycling bin?▼
Yes, in most municipal programs, completely empty steel and aluminum spray cans are fully recyclable alongside tin and beverage cans.
What do I do if an aerosol can is clogged with paint inside?▼
Do not attempt to pierce it. Clogged cans containing liquid and propellant must be delivered to a household hazardous waste collection site.
Are disinfectant spray cans like Lysol recyclable?▼
Yes, once completely exhausted of all propellant and liquid, the steel canister can be placed in your curbside recycling cart.