Hand Sanitizer Alternative ways to recycle Hazardous Waste Hand Sanitizer Is Flammable Hand sanitizer is flammable due to its high alcohol content and is considered hazardous waste. Ensure the sanitizer is in a sealed container to prevent leakage during transport. Alternative Ways to Recycle Recycle Bottle Once Empty Once empty of all liquid, the plastic bottle may be recycled. The plastic pump (if applicable) should be thrown in the garbage. Ways to Reuse Buy Bulk to Save Buy hand sanitizer in bulk and refill your individual bottles. This practice will cut down on the overall number of plastic bottles you go through.