• Toxic to small children and may be deadly to animals attracted by its sweet taste.
• Spent antifreeze may contain metals from the engine (lead, zinc, copper).
• Can disturb the biological action of sewage treatment and septic systems.

Handling

• Collect and store spent antifreeze in sealed, labeled, plastic or metal container, away from heat sources, children and pets.
• Never store in a beverage container; original container is best.
• Clean up spills with absorbent (kitty litter, shredded newspaper, vermiculite, rags, etc.); bag waste materials and discard in the trash. Flush soiled area with water.
• Do not mix with oil.
• Do not dispose down the drain without approval from your wastewater treatment facility.
• Do not dispose of in the trash: liquid wastes can leak in a trash truck.

 
Management Options

Unused Antifreeze:

• Antifreeze does not go bad. Donate to a friend who can use it, a mechanic or school auto shop.

• Take to community recycling center, if available.
• Take to service station or repair garage that accepts spent antifreeze.
• Check with your local wastewater treatment facility to see if they can accept small amounts of antifreeze.
• If recycling option is not available, take to next household hazardous waste collection day or a commercial hazardous waste facility.
• Note: More environmentally-friendly propylene glycol may contain the same pollutants after use and should be disposed as suggested above.

• Dispose of these in the trash.

Some businesses that accept spent antifreeze at no charge:

• Valvoline Instant Oil Change (check phone directory for nearest location). In the Boston area:
  • Allston, 222 Brighton Ave.
  • Arlington, 82 Mystic St. (Rte. 3)
  • Brookline, 275 Boylston St. (Rte. 9)
  • Cambridge, 2485 Massachusetts Ave.
  • Medford, 212 Salem St.
  • Newton, 90 Winchester St. (at Needham St.)
  • Roslindale,740 Am. Legion Hwy
  • Somerville, 182 Washington St. (Union Sq.)
  • Waltham, 557 Main St. (Rte. 20)
  • Watertown, 80 Galen St. (Watertown Sq.)
  • West Roxbury, 15 Spring St.
    
    
• In Central Massachusetts: Luddy's Chevrolet, 512 Main St., Holden