How to Safely Dispose of Non-Empty Aerosol Cans and Paint Cans in South Carolina

Cleaning out your garage or finishing a home project often leaves you with leftover spray paint, lubricants, or cans of paint. While it may be tempting to throw these items in the trash, non-empty aerosol cans and paint containers can pose serious safety and environmental risks if not handled correctly. South Carolina has specific regulations and local programs to help residents dispose of these materials safely.

Why Proper Disposal Matters

Aerosol cans are pressurized containers. If they still contain product or propellant, they can explode or ignite if crushed, punctured, or exposed to heat. This creates a fire hazard and can release harmful chemicals into the environment. Similarly, leftover paint, especially oil-based paint, contains volatile chemicals that can contaminate soil and water if poured down drains or dumped improperly. Following proper disposal procedures protects your household, sanitation workers, and the environment.

Handling Aerosol Cans in South Carolina

Under South Carolina regulations, aerosol cans are considered hazardous waste if they still contain product. Empty cans that have been fully discharged may be disposed of with household trash or recycled according to local guidelines. However, partially full cans should never be crushed, punctured, or thrown away in regular trash. The safest option is to take them to a household hazardous waste collection site or event, where professionals can handle and recycle them properly.

Disposing of Leftover Paint

For paint, South Carolina residents have several responsible options. If the paint is still usable, consider finishing the project, donating it to a community organization, or giving it to someone who can use it. Small amounts of latex paint can be dried out by leaving the lid off in a well-ventilated area or mixing it with an absorbent material, like clay-based cat litter. Once the paint is fully dried, it can be disposed of in the regular trash. Oil-based paints, however, should never be thrown in the trash and should be taken to a hazardous waste collection facility.

Safety Tips Before Disposal

When transporting aerosol cans and paint, use secure containers to prevent spills. Do not pour paint down drains, toilets, or storm drains, and avoid mixing leftover paint with other chemicals, as this can create dangerous reactions. If you are unsure whether an item is hazardous, treat it as such and use a proper household hazardous waste collection site. Following these precautions helps protect public safety and ensures your materials are handled responsibly.

Where to Dispose of Hazardous Aerosol Cans and Paint

Residents can take non-empty aerosol cans and leftover paint to household hazardous waste collection events, permanent drop-off locations, or community recycling programs. Many counties in South Carolina, including Greenville, Mauldin, and Anderson, host periodic events to accept hazardous household items. Always check with your local solid waste department for accepted materials, hours, and procedures before heading out.



Proper disposal of non-empty aerosol and paint cans not only keeps your home and community safe but also protects South Carolina’s environment. By following state regulations and utilizing local hazardous waste resources, you can ensure these materials are handled responsibly and kept out of landfills in an unsafe condition.