Waste antifreeze, also called engine coolant often contains heavy metals such as lead, cadmium and chromium in high enough levels to make it a regulated hazardous waste. A study performed by the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) determined that approximately 40% of used antifreeze would be considered a hazardous waste due to elevated levels of lead (ASTM document STP 1192 “Engine Coolant Testing,” 1993).
Once you have followed the proper procedure for changing your antifreeze, you need to take it to a local recycling center, service station, or auto repair shop. You may have to call ahead to see if they will accept your antifreeze waste. DO NOT pour it down your drain or outside. Antifreeze is toxic to the environment and potentially deadly if ingested. Earth911’s Recycling Locator is a useful tool to find a hazardous waste or recycling facility near you.
After you have properly disposed of your antifreeze, please be sure to use CLEAN-ALL HEAVY METALS® HAND & BODY SOAP, formulated to bond with heavy metal residue like lead, cadmium and chromium so it simply rinses away.