Can you recycle antifreeze and brake fluid?

⚠️ Hazardous — special disposal

Recycling centre chemical point, in sealed labelled containers

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Antifreeze (ethylene glycol — sweet-tasting and highly toxic to pets and children) and brake fluid are hazardous chemicals for the recycling centre's chemical collection, never drains or bins. Keep them in original containers, sealed, and separate from waste oil. Clean up antifreeze spills thoroughly — animals are attracted to the taste.

Tips

  • Wipe up spills — pets lick antifreeze
  • Keep separate from engine oil at the tip

Which bin does it go in?

Recycling centre chemical point, in sealed labelled containers

Background: Batteries, vapes & electricals: the fire-risk items.

Also searched as: coolant, screenwash concentrate, glycol.

✓ Checked against current UK guidance: 14 Jul 2026. Spot an error or an out-of-date rule?

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