How to Safely Dispose of Gas Canisters?
Rachel writes practical guides on skip hire, waste removal, and responsible disposal in the UK. She explains what you can legally put in a skip, how to handle restricted waste, and what it really costs. Her goal is to give clear, up-to-date advice so households and trades stay compliant and avoid fines.
Reviewed by: Skip Hire Team Waste Compliance Manager | Upper Tier Waste Broker Licence CBDU596771
- Last verified:November 1, 2025
Gas canisters aren’t your everyday rubbish. Whether it’s from a BBQ, camping trip, or construction site, these pressurised containers need special care. If you’re unsure what to do with them, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the safe and legal ways to dispose of gas canisters across the UK.
Why Gas Canisters Need Special Attention
They might look harmless once you are finished using them, but a gas canister can still cause harm if handled incorrectly. Here are 3 main things you should know:
- They’re pressurised – Even if it feels empty, a canister can still contain residual gas. That pressure can cause injuries if punctured or tampered with.
- Explosion and fire risk – Puncturing, crushing or overheating a canister could cause it to explode.
- They’re bad for the environment – If dumped, leftover gas can leak into the soil or air, polluting local ecosystems or harming wildlife.
To simply put it: if it held gas, it needs proper care. Treat every canister like it’s still dangerous (because it might be.)
Safe and Legal Ways to Dispose of Gas Canisters
The good news? You’ve got several easy options for disposal depending on the canister type and how you originally got it.
1. Return it to the supplier
If you bought your canister from a company like Calor, Campingaz, or another well-known gas supplier, there’s a high chance they’ll take it back through a return or refill scheme. Most of these companies reuse or recycle their old containers safely.
2. Use your local recycling centre
Some household waste recycling centres (HWRCs) accept gas canisters. Be sure to check ahead to see if they’ll take yours and whether you need to follow any specific steps.
Top tip: Some centres require you to place canisters in a designated hazardous waste area.
3. Call in licensed waste professionals
If you have multiple canisters, or if they’re from a business or industrial setting, the safest route is to contact a hazardous waste disposal service. They’ll collect and dispose of them properly.
What You Should Never Do
Handling gas canisters is extremely important! Handling them the wrong way can be dangerous and illegal. To stay safe, always avoid:
- Crushing, puncturing or burning them. This can cause explosions or serious injury.
- Throwing them in your household bin. Standard collections won’t accept them and could fine you.
- Hiding them in a skip. Skips are for general and non-hazardous waste only. A single canister could result in the entire skip being rejected or incur a hefty fine.
Can You Put Gas Canisters in a Skip?
No! Skips are for general and construction waste, not hazardous materials. Gas canisters, even if you think they’re empty, must never go in a skip.
They pose a safety risk during transport and disposal, and putting one in a skip could delay your service or result in a fine.
Best Practices for Safe Handling Before Disposal
While you’re waiting to return or drop off your canister, it’s important to store it correctly. Here’s how to keep things safe in the meantime:
- Store them upright and in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep them away from any heat sources or direct sunlight.
- If the label is missing, clearly mark the container if you know what it held.
And if you’re unsure at any point, reach out to your local council or recycling centre for guidance.
FAQs
Can empty gas canisters be recycled?
Yes, but only through approved methods. Even empty ones can be dangerous, so they need to go through proper recycling channels.
What if I don’t know what gas was inside?
Don’t take chances. Treat it as hazardous and contact your council or a licensed waste service for help.
Need to Get Rid of Waste the Right Way?
We may not take gas canisters but we do take care of everyday waste. From garden clear-outs to DIY renovations and big site jobs, our skips are ideal for handling everyday waste responsibly.
We offer:
- Fast delivery (often same-day if you book before 10am)
- Friendly, local service
- Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs
Ready to book a skip? You can do it online in minutes or give our team a call.
