Triple-rinsing is the most common method of rinsing pesticide containers. However, it is a slower and less effective method of removing residue from empty pesticide containers than pressure-rinsing. Triple-rinsing can be used on plastic, glass, and non-pressurized metal containers.
To triple-rinse an empty pesticide container:
Remove cover from container and empty any residue into the spray tank, allowing the container to drain for 30 seconds.
Fill the container 20% to 25% full of water or spray diluent.
Replace cap and shake for 30 seconds.
Repeat steps 1 through 3 two more times using fresh water or spray diluent each time.
Pressure-rinsing is much faster than triple-rinsing. It is also a more effective method for the removal of pesticide residue. This method, however, can only be used on plastic and non-pressurized metal containers. In pressure-rinsing, a special nozzle, attached to the end of a water hose, is used to force any pesticide residue out of the empty container.
To pressure-rinse an empty pesticide container:
Remove cover from container and empty any residue into the spray tank, allowing the container to drain for 30 seconds.
With the container still upside down over the sprayer tank, insert the pressure-rinse nozzle by puncturing through the bottom of the pesticide container. Pressure-rinse nozzles can be purchased or homemade.
Rinse for the length of time recommended by the manufacturer. Generally 30 seconds or more.
If you are part of a pesticide container recycling program, you need to further condition your empty plastic pesticide containers, after rinsing them out, to maintain the quality of the recycled plastic. You should:
Remove all labels and sleeves.
Remove all caps and handles that are not made of high density polyethylene (HDPE).
Clean the exterior of containers.
Keep sodium chlorate containers separate since sodium chlorate may cause a fire if mixed with certain chemicals.