Summer is the perfect time to clear out old supplies and get rid of bottles of weedkiller, pesticides, and other garden chemicals that have been sitting unused for months – or even years. But don't throw them away with the rest of your garden waste. Disposing of these products incorrectly can create risks for both people and the environment.
‘Many households don't realise that garden chemicals can't simply be treated like normal rubbish,’ says Mark Hall, general waste expert at Bins.co.uk.
Below, we reveal the most common garden chemical disposal mistakes to avoid during your summer clear-out.
Read more: How a smelly wheelie bin could lead to neighbour complaints – and when the council can intervene
1. Throwing old weedkiller into the household bin
It might seem like the quickest solution, but old weedkiller and pesticides should never be thrown into your general waste.
‘Weedkillers and pesticides contain harmful chemicals that, if thrown into a general household waste bin, can pose risks to human health or the environment if they are not disposed of correctly,’ says Mark. ‘Even if there is only a small amount left in the container, households should avoid dumping it in general waste. Instead, check the correct local disposal route.’
Many councils offer hazardous waste disposal services for household chemicals, so it's worth checking what's available in your area before disposing of them.
2. Pouring chemicals down drains or onto soil
Getting rid of leftover weedkiller by tipping it down the sink may feel harmless, but it can have long-lasting environmental consequences.
‘Pouring leftover weedkiller, pesticide or patio cleaner down a sink, toilet, outside drain or onto bare soil may seem like a quick way to get rid of a small amount, but it can simply move the problem elsewhere. Water treatment systems in the UK aren't designed to filter out toxins in chemicals like these,’ Mark explains.
The toxins can pollute public water and harm aquatic life. Instead, keep unwanted chemicals sealed until they can be disposed of through the correct hazardous waste service.
3. Keeping chemicals in unlabelled bottles
Old garden products are often left sitting in sheds until labels fade or peel away, making it difficult to identify exactly what's inside.
‘This is where the risk increases, because no one can be fully sure what the product is, how old it is, what it should be used for, or how it should be disposed of,’ says Mark.
Keeping chemicals in their original packaging ensures you still have the manufacturer's instructions for safe storage and disposal. If a container is leaking or unlabelled, avoid opening it or transferring it into another bottle.
4. Mixing contaminated containers with recycling
Even if a bottle looks empty, it shouldn't automatically go into your recycling bin.
‘Empty garden chemical bottles should not automatically be placed into general recycling, especially if there is still residue inside or the label gives specific disposal instructions,’ explains Mark. ‘Small amounts of leftover chemicals can contaminate other recyclable materials.’
Before recycling any container, check the label carefully. If there's any uncertainty, keep it separate until you've confirmed the correct disposal method.
5. Forgetting about pets and children during clear-outs
When sorting through sheds and garages, bottles can often be left temporarily on patios, driveways, or lawns while everything is being organised.
‘This creates a risk for others, especially if bottles are leaking or labels are missing,’ Mark warns.
Keep all unwanted chemicals sealed, upright, and well out of reach until they can be safely disposed of. It's also best to avoid leaving them in direct sunlight, where containers can weaken, expand, or even burst.
6. Assuming all recycling centres accept garden chemicals
Not every household waste recycling centre accepts hazardous garden chemicals, and the rules can vary depending on where you live.
‘Some councils may accept small amounts of household hazardous waste at specific sites, while others may require a booking, a permit or a separate collection,’ says Mark.
Checking your local council's guidance before making the journey can save time and help ensure chemicals are disposed of safely.
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