Can you recycle aerosol cans?

Empty aerosols (deodorant, air freshener, polish, cooking spray) are recyclable at kerbside across the UK — they became a mandatory core material in England from March 2026. The can must be completely empty (spray until nothing comes out); never pierce, crush or flatten it, as residual pressure can cause explosion. Remove loose plastic caps and recycle those with plastics. Part-full aerosols go to the recycling centre's hazardous point.

Tips

• Spray until empty — listen for gas only
• Never pierce or crush aerosols
• Plastic caps off and into plastics

Which bin does it go in?

Recycling bin once COMPLETELY empty — never pierce or crush

Background: Recycling symbols explained.

Also searched as: spray cans, deodorant cans, air freshener cans.