Recycling Automotive Containers in Colorado Just Got Easier.
Thanks to Colorado law (HB22-1355), empty automotive and petroleum product containers can now be collected and recycled. This keeps them out of landfills and in the right recycling stream. Our statewide program is here to help residents safely recycle used motor oil, antifreeze, and other automotive containers at no cost to residents.
What is Interchange 360?
Interchange 360 runs Colorado’s producer-funded recycling program for automotive and petroleum packaging. Industry funds safe, convenient recycling so these materials are handled properly from start to finish.
What Can I Recycle?
Interchange 360 Registered Collection Facilities (RCFs) will accept the following items from residents at no cost:
- Empty motor oil containers
- Empty antifreeze containers
- Empty diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) containers
- Empty automotive aerosols
- Other empty automotive containers
Containers must be empty, capped, and not leaking.
Not Accepted through the Interchange 360 program:
- Containers with liquid remaining
- Oil filters
- Gasoline containers
- Household or food packaging
Some of the products on the Interchange 360 Not Accepted list, may still be accepted at HHW Depots. We recommend asking the staff for details.
Where Can I Recycle?
Drop-off locations are being added across Colorado. While availability is currently limited in some areas, the network will continue expanding throughout 2026. Some communities may also offer Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) events.
Find Your Closest Drop-Off Location
If you don’t see a location near you yet, check back as we add more sites to the network.
Why This Matters For Colorado
Automotive containers can contain leftover petroleum and chemical residue. When they’re tossed in curbside bins or landfills, they can:
- Contaminate recycling streams
- Pollute soil and waterways
- Increase fire and safety risks
Recycling them properly:
- Protects Colorado’s rivers and wildlife
- Reduces contamination
- Keeps valuable materials in use
- Helps improve recycling access statewide
The Interchange 360 program plays an important role in increasing Colorado’s recycling rate and building a better system for everyone.
Keep automotive containers out of curbside recycling bins
Curbside Recycling bins are designed for clean household packaging. Lubricant and automotive fluid containers often contain residue and require specialized equipment to recycle properly.
If a container held automotive fluid, it goes to drop-off…not curbside.
Have non-automotive packaging to recycle?
Visit RecycleON Colorado for information on the curbside program.
FAQs
Do the containers need to be completely empty?
Yes. Please empty containers fully before drop-off. A small residual amount is okay, but containers should not contain free-flowing liquid. Always make sure lids are tightly secured.
Can I put empty automotive containers in my curbside recycling bin?
No.
Automotive containers do not belong in curbside recycling. Even small amounts of leftover fluid can contaminate recycling systems and create safety risks.
These items must be dropped off at a designated location.
Is it free?
Yes. Dropping-off our program materials at a Registered Collection Facility is free for residents.
Are there limits on how many containers I can drop-off?
Most locations accept typical household quantities.
If you have a large volume of containers, contact the drop-off location in advance to confirm capacity.
What happens to the containers after I drop them off?
Collected containers are transported to approved processors where they are properly cleaned and recycled.
When recycled properly, used oil, antifreeze, and other automotive product containers are turned into new oil containers, drainage tiles, and parking curbs.
Does Interchange 360 accept used oil or antifreeze liquids?
The Interchange 360 program is responsible only for the empty containers.
Some locations may also accept fluids, but that varies by facility. Check the specific location listing for details before visiting.