Questions about disposing of aerosol can waste?
As an experienced and certified waste collector, we are happy to answer all your questions about the disposal of aerosol waste and other chemical waste streams. Feel free to contact us.
Aerosol and spray cans
Disposal of aerosol cans is mandatory for companies and institutions when they contain pressurised residues or chemicals such as paint, glue or lubricant. Empty or full aerosol cans may not be disposed of with residual waste or metal waste, as they can be explosive and environmentally hazardous. Chemical Waste Netherlands ensures safe, certified collection and processing of all types of aerosol cans.
Return empty aerosol cans
Companies can hand in their empty aerosol cans and fire extinguishers at Chemical Waste Netherlands. Because pressure containers contain hazardous chemicals, they must be removed and processed separately. Private individuals can easily hand in an old aerosol can or fire extinguisher at, for example, the municipal recycling center, but companies must engage an external partner to comply with the legislation.
Which aerosol cans are considered chemical waste?
Most aerosols fall under chemical waste. Examples are:
Spray paint cans (paint waste)
Lubricants and silicone sprays
Glue sprays
Insecticides and pesticides in aerosol form
Cleaners such as brake cleaner or engine spray
Both full and empty aerosol cans fall into this category, unless they can be demonstrated to be residue-free and pressure-free.
Aerosol can waste
- Have your spray can waste collected
- Responsible disposal and recycling
- One-off, periodic or on-demand possible
- Arranged within 10 working days
- For companies throughout the Netherlands
- Competitive all-in rates
Costs for disposing of aerosol cans
The costs for the disposal of aerosol cans depend on the volume, the type of content and the method of collection. For companies with regular flows, we offer competitive rates and advantageous contracts. One-off disposal is also possible. Feel free to request a free quote.
Sustainable processing and recycling of aerosol cans
Sustainable processing and recycling of aerosol cans means that the metal shells are recycled and the contents are safely neutralized. Chemical Waste Netherlands works with certified processors who meet the strict requirements and chemical waste legislationThis way you are assured of environmentally friendly disposal.
Have your old and empty spray cans collected
We will collect your broken, old and empty spray cans at your location. Curious about our competitive rates? Request a quote today.
Frequently asked questions about disposing of aerosol cans
Can aerosol cans be disposed of with residual waste?
No, aerosol cans may not be disposed of with residual waste due to explosion and environmental risks.
What do you do with empty aerosol cans?
Empty aerosol cans are also considered chemical waste, unless they are completely empty and depressurised (which is difficult to check).
How do you return aerosol cans?
Companies return aerosol cans via a recognized collector such as Chemisch Afval Nederland BV. Private individuals and households can often go to the recycling center and waste station of their municipality.
Is an empty aerosol can dangerous?
Yes, even an empty aerosol can may be under pressure or contain residues of hazardous substances.
Where to throw away an empty spray paint can?
The costs depend on the quantity, packaging and content. CAN will gladly make a customized quote.
Can an aerosol can be disposed of with PMD waste?
No, aerosol cans do not belong in PMD waste. Not even if they are made of metal or appear empty. Aerosol cans are under pressure and may contain chemical substances. This makes them potentially dangerous during processing or incineration. They must therefore be disposed of as chemical waste — via the recycling centre (for private individuals) or a recognised collector such as Chemisch Afval Nederland (for companies).
Are all aerosol cans chemical waste?
Almost all aerosol cans with residues or under pressure are considered chemical waste. This also applies to apparently empty cans.
How should aerosol cans be packed for transport?
Aerosol cans should be disposed of in a chemical waste container be stored. Use UN-approved drums or leak-proof containers that can be sealed properly. We can supply these containers.
Can you recycle aerosol cans?
Yes, aerosols are suitable for recycling. The metal shells are separated and recycled. The contents are processed in an environmentally friendly way.
Where should you return empty aerosol cans?
Empty aerosol cans must be handed in as chemical waste. Private individuals can often dispose of them at the recycling centre under small chemical waste (KCA). Companies are required to dispose of empty aerosol cans via a recognised collector such as Chemisch Afval Nederland. Even if they appear empty, aerosol cans may still be under pressure or contain residues, which means they cannot be disposed of with regular waste.
