Correct Disposal of Dried Isopropyl Alcohol Paper Wipes

Dried paper wipes that contain isopropyl alcohol (better known as rubbing alcohol) are used in large quantities by such professionals as medical personnel and chemists. The wipes aren't supposed to be thrown into household trash because their alcohol content is considered hazardous. The chemical makes the wipes very flammable, so they need to be kept away from sources of heat or flames. They are also an environmental hazard because if the wipes end up in a sewage system, they can contaminate waterways.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic bag
• Hazardous waste disposal can
• Contact information for local or county waste management facility

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Instructions

• 1

  Put the dried wipes in a plastic bag and tie it closed.

• 2

  Store the bag in a hazardous waste disposal can. Leave the can in a low-traffic area that won't be disturbed by animals or children.

• 3

  Contact your local waste management facility. Ask the representative which landfill in your county or state is approved for the disposal of dried alcohol wipes, and if it's safe for you to transport the volume of wipes you have to the dump yourself.

• 4

  Leave the wipes stored in the hazardous materials can until they're retrieved--in the event the waste management facility wants to send someone to get the wipes.

• 5

  Follow any directives you're given about transporting them if you're told to drop them off. You may be asked to follow such measures as pouring water into the bag to dilute the wipes' alcohol content or to keep the bag in the hazardous materials can while you transport it.