
When it comes to industrial waste, used aerosol cans are often overlooked — but improperly handling them can pose serious environmental and safety risks. Whether they’re empty or partially full knowing how to dispose of aerosol cans the right way is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of safe aerosol can disposal — and introduce you to a reliable, cost-effective solution: the AeroVent® Aerosol Can Disposal Systems.
Why Proper Aerosol Can Disposal Matters
Aerosol cans are pressurized containers that often contain hazardous materials such as paints, cleaners, lubricants, and pesticides. Even when they seem “empty,” they may still hold residual product and propellant gases.
Throwing aerosol cans in the regular trash or attempting to manually puncture them can be dangerous and is often illegal. Improper disposal can:
- Cause explosions or fires in landfills.
- Release harmful chemicals into the environment.
- Lead to regulatory fines for non-compliance with OSHA, EPA, and state-specific guidelines.
Because of these risks, proper aerosol can disposal procedures must be followed to protect workers, the environment, and your business.
How to Dispose of Aerosol Cans: Step-by-Step
1. Identify Can Contents
Before disposal, determine whether the can is empty, partially full, or still pressurized. If the can is completely empty (no pressure, no product), it may be recyclable in some areas. If not, it’s considered hazardous waste.
2. Never Crush or Puncture Manually
Attempting to crush or puncture aerosol cans by hand is unsafe. It can release flammable or toxic chemicals and create a high-risk situation.
3. Use a Regulatory Compliant Aerosol Can Disposal System
The safest, most compliant way to dispose of aerosol cans is by using an EPA- and OSHA-compliant aerosol can disposal device — like our AeroVent® systems. These systems allow you to safely puncture, drain, and recycle aerosol cans, turning hazardous waste into non-hazardous scrap metal.
Meet the AeroVent® Aerosol Can Disposal Systems
If you’re wondering how to best dispose of your aerosol cans without the stress, Newstripe’s AeroVent® has the answer. We offer three easy-to-use, regulation-compliant systems designed for different needs:
AeroVent® Standard Aerosol Can Disposal System

- Budget-Friendly and Effective
- Safely punctures and drains used aerosol cans into a sealed drum.
- Protects the operator with a fully enclosed chamber.
- Processes a variety of can sizes (up to 3” diameter & 9.75” long).
- Proudly Made in the USA with an 18-month warranty.
- Compliant with EPA, OSHA, and California regulations.
- Perfect for organizations needing reliable aerosol can disposal at an economical price.
Learn more about the AeroVent Standard here.
AeroVent® 1X Aerosol Can Disposal System

- Streamlined Waste Management with Enhanced Safety Features
- Innovative Viz-a-Ball™ Indicator shows when it’s safe to open.
- Built-in cycle counter tracks processed cans for on-time filter replacement.
- Processes a variety of aerosol can sizes (up to 3” diameter & 9.75” long) with a one-size-fits-all tray.
- Fully compliant and proudly made in the USA.
The AeroVent® 1X makes the process simple with its three-step operation: load, wait for depressurization, and dispose — safely and easily.
Learn more about the AeroVent 1X here.
AeroVent® 3X Aerosol Can Disposal System

- High-Efficiency Solution for High-Volume Needs
- Processes up to three aerosol cans simultaneously.
- Safe2Vent® filter system for superior vapor containment.
- Innovative, rugged design ensures maximum operator safety.
- Complies with regulations in all 50 states.
The AeroVent® 3X is perfect for larger facilities needing fast, reliable, and environmentally responsible aerosol can disposal.
Learn more about the AeroVent 3X here.
Benefits of Using AeroVent® for Your Aerosol Can Disposal
Safety First: Fully enclosed puncture systems protect operators from blowback and harmful vapors.
Regulation Compliance: Meets OSHA, EPA, and California disposal standards.
Cost Savings: Reduce hazardous waste disposal costs and recycle drained cans as scrap metal.
Extended Filter Life: Built-in coalescing elements extend the life of Safe2Vent® filters, saving you money.
Proudly Made in the USA: Backed by our industry-leading 18-month warranty.
Dispose of Aerosol Cans the Smart Way
Learning how to dispose of used aerosol cans safely is critical for protecting your team, staying compliant, and reducing environmental harm. Using Newstripe’s AeroVent® aerosol can disposal systems transforms a complicated, high-risk process into a simple, streamlined task — saving you time, money, and stress.
Ready to make your aerosol can disposal process safer and easier? Explore the AeroVent® systems and find the right fit for your facility today!