What to do if you have old or unused pesticides
Pesticides are one way to tackle persistent pests and weeds, but these products don’t last forever – they can expire, be discontinued or simply no longer be of use to you anymore. It is important to dispose of any leftover products in the correct way, to minimise the damage the chemical ingredients within them can cause to people, water and wildlife.
Here’s what to do if you find old pesticides:
Organise your supply
First things first, it helps to complete a regular inventory of the pesticides you own. Identify any products that you no longer need and what you want to keep. Make sure your products are stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, so their shelf-life remains accurate.
2. Check the expiry dates
Read over the labels on the products and check their expiry dates. It is unsafe to use a pesticide product if it is out of date, as not only will it be less effective, but it could damage your plants. If the product shows no expiration date, it is generally recommended to discard it after two years.
3. Has it been discontinued?
Now you have put aside any unwanted or expired pesticides, it is always good to check if any remaining products have been discontinued. Certain chemicals and active ingredients used in pesticides can be withdrawn from use if they are no longer deemed safe. You can check if your products are licensed to use by searching their MAPP number (which can be found on the label) on the HSE’s Garden Pesticide Search.
4. Dispose of unsafe products
After identifying the products you need to dispose of, it is time to check the labels for instructions on how to get rid of them. Never dispose of pesticide products in drains, sinks, toilets, ditches or as household waste. You need to dispose of them through your local authority’s waste centre. If you are unsure, contact the retailer or manufacturer for advice.
5. Don’t skip the packaging!
As well as the pesticide itself, you must correctly dispose of the used containers. Do not burn any empty packaging as it may give off poisonous gases. Do not rinse out any empty containers into sinks, drains or outdoor areas. Packaging should be disposed of by following the instructions on the label. If you are unsure, contact the retailer or manufacturer.
Top Tips:
Pop notes into your calendar to regularly check your shed or garage for any out-of-date pesticide products.
If you are unsure about how to properly get rid of a product, contact the retailer or manufacturer.
Ensure your pesticides are correctly stored so their expiry date is not affected.
