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Disposing of Pesticide Containers

Empty does not mean harmless. How you handle pesticide containers affects your health, your water and your neighbors, and rules vary by state. This guide explains the principles.

Why do empty containers still matter?

Residue left in a container can harm people, animals and water. Children and animals are especially at risk if a container is reused or left in a field. Handling containers properly protects everyone who comes after you.

The label has a section on container handling and disposal, and this is the first place to look for the legally required steps.

Containers sometimes end up on farms from earlier owners or from relatives. If you inherit old containers, treat them as unknown hazards: do not open them, do not move them roughly and contact your state agency for advice.

• Residue can harm people, animals and water.
• Children are drawn to bottles and jugs.
• Rinsing promptly makes recycling possible.

What does the label say about containers?

The storage and disposal section tells you whether the container may be refilled, recycled or must be disposed of in a specific way. Some containers must be rinsed right after emptying, and the label describes the method. The triple rinse article on this site covers the general idea.

Do not rely on memory or on what a neighbor does. If your state has stricter rules than the label, the stricter rule applies, so confirm with your state agency.

Can I recycle pesticide containers?

Many areas have container recycling programs for clean, properly rinsed plastic containers. Programs differ by state and by season, and they often have rules on cap removal, labels, drying and where to bring them. Ask your extension office or state agency what is available near you.

Containers that were not rinsed or that held certain products may be refused. Rinsing promptly after use is the best way to keep the option open.

Some programs have specific seasons or limited drop-off points. Plan a trip for when you have enough containers to make it worthwhile and store them safely until then, covered and away from weather, children and animals.

• Rinse as the label directs, right after emptying.
• Let containers drain and dry in a safe place.
• Keep them out of reach of children and animals until collection.
• Follow the program's rules on caps, labels and bags.

What should I never do?

Never burn containers, bury them on the farm, dump them in a ditch or reuse them for any other purpose. Burning can release harmful fumes and is restricted in many places. Reuse for food, feed or water has caused poisonings.

Do not put pesticide containers in household trash unless your state or local rules explicitly allow it for rinsed containers. Ask first.

• Never reuse a container for water, feed, food or any other purpose.
• Do not leave containers in fields, ditches or on the ground.
• Do not crush or cut containers unless the label or program says so.

What about leftover product and rinse water?

Plan to use all of what you mix by applying it as the label allows. Rinse water is often added to the spray tank and applied according to the label, but confirm that this is allowed for your product. Avoid creating more waste than you need.

Unused concentrate is a different problem. Contact your state agency about disposal, collection events or return programs. Keep it stored securely in the original container until then.

The fewer partial containers you have, the less you need to dispose of. When purchasing, consider whether a smaller container size would reduce leftover product on your farm.

How do I handle damaged or leaking containers?

A leaking container is a spill. Put on required protective equipment, place the container in a larger secure container such as a spill overpack if the label or state guidance recommends it, and keep people away. Ask your state agency how to dispose of it.

If someone is exposed and unwell, call 911 in an emergency.

Even small leaks can contaminate soil. After cleanup, ask your state agency whether any further steps are needed, especially if the spill was near a well, a drain or surface water.

What records should I keep?

Note how and when you handled and disposed of containers. If you use a recycling program, keep the receipt or log. Records show you followed good practice and help you plan the next season.

Share good habits with seasonal and family workers so containers are not left behind in fields or shops.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.