Last time I bought hairspray I went with this guy. During my mid-day trip to pick up essentials, I grabbed it again. Unfortunately, I discovered something less than satisfactory once I got home: If aerosol cans are not COMPLETELY empty when you get rid of them, they’re considered Household Hazardous Waste (HHW). HAZARDOUS WASTE!? UGH. Could that sound any worse? Better start a search for a new hairspray option. At the very least, I know that this meets all state and federal clean air standards. But in a nation where the EPA is being dismantled daily and we are promoting environment hating in some portions of the federal government, does that mean much anymore??
Okay, okay, the can isn’t made of plastic, only portions of it are. But why not broaden our scope today?
Here’s a few tips on recycling aerosol cans from earth911.com:
Do your best to use up all the product inside. If the can still has product inside, even if it’s nonhazardous product like whipped cream, your recycling program will not accept it. The easiest way to make sure it’s empty is to shake the can and listen for liquid inside, or spray until nothing comes out.
Most aerosol cans come with a plastic cap, which should be removed and recycled separately. Visit our recycling guide on plastic caps for more information.
DO NOT puncture a hole in the can to remove any remaining product, as the can will explode and hurt you. You should also not attempt to remove the spray nozzle on top of the can.
Verify whether your community accepts aerosol cans with other metal cans, or whether they are classified as household hazardous waste (HHW). There are separate disposal options for each.
