How Do You Dispose of Antifreeze?

ATSDR says ethylene glycol is a clear liquid used in antifreeze and de-icing solutions, that exposure to large amounts can damage the kidneys, nervous system, lungs and heart, and that accidental or intentional ingestion can occur because antifreeze is a sweet tasting, brightly colored liquid. ATSDR says propylene glycol is also a clear liquid used in antifreeze and deicing solutions, and that it is generally regarded as safe for use in food.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection says either type of antifreeze may contain lead after it has been used, and that antifreeze may pollute groundwater, surface water and drinking water supplies if dumped, spilled or leaked. It advises checking whether your town recycling center is permitted to accept waste antifreeze for recycling, and if not, taking it to a household hazardous waste collection center or waiting for a local collection day, and says used antifreeze should never be dumped down a drain, in the sewer or on the ground.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says that whether or not waste antifreeze is hazardous, it may not be placed in solid waste, a stormwater drain or a septic system, mixed with used oil, or allowed to drain to the ground, and it strongly recommends recycling waste antifreeze. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources says waste antifreeze is not a listed hazardous waste under federal regulations but may contain metals, particularly lead, and other substances that would make it a characteristic hazardous waste, although studies have shown that antifreeze from late-model cars and trucks does not exhibit hazardous characteristics.