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EPA warns households of hand sanitizer being hazardous if disposed improperly

DEDHAM, Mass. — As we mark three years since the COVID-19 pandemic, more homes than ever have leftover hand sanitizer bottles that may be expired.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is warning of alcohol-based hand sanitizer, which typically contains at least 60 percent alcohol, is an ignitable hazardous waste when discarded improperly.

Officials say hand sanitizer should never be disposed of down the drain. The sanitizer being an ignitable material can cause fires and explosions in water pipes and sewer systems.

An empty container of hand sanitizer may be placed in a curbside recycling bin. However, if hand sanitizer remains in the container, EPA recommends that households not put the hand sanitizer in the regular household trash. Instead, EPA recommends that household hand sanitizer waste be brought to a household hazardous waste drop-off location or event for proper management.

Additional information can be found in the memorandum: RCRA Management of Excess Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer. 

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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