Move chemical and battery decisions to the front of the cleanout. Fuels, automotive fluids, wet paint, pool chemicals, pesticides, propane cylinders and rechargeable batteries should not disappear inside an ordinary junk pile.

The separation table

Material	Examples	Safe planning step
Flammable	Gasoline, kerosene, solvents	Leave in the original labeled container and contact the county program.
Corrosive or reactive	Pool chemicals, drain opener, some cleaners	Do not combine containers or pour contents out.
Automotive	Oil, antifreeze, car batteries	Keep upright and separate for an approved drop-off route.
Rechargeable batteries	Power tools, e-bikes, loose lithium batteries	Do not place in ordinary trash or mixed junk.

Transport rules worth following

Lee County advises residents to keep products in original containers when possible, label unknown replacements, secure them against leaks, place them in sturdy boxes in the trunk or rear of the vehicle, and never mix products. The county also warns against smoking during transport or storing the material in a vehicle for days.

Cleanout-day checklist

Make a clearly marked “do not load” zone.
Keep chemical containers upright and away from children or pets.
Photograph unreadable labels and call the facility before moving them.
Tell the hauling crew about batteries hidden in tools, toys or electronics.
Use a professional when a container is leaking, swollen, hot or otherwise unstable.

Source: Lee County household chemical waste brochure. Lee County residential guidance; retrieved October 21, 2026.

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