Staining can bring more character into furniture pieces. However, it often left us with a pile of dirty and sticky staining rugs. Now, what should we do with these things?
You need to be careful when you use oil-based products, from wood conditioners to stains to paints to topcoats. They are highly flammable, so it is of utmost importance to dispose of these materials properly to prevent fires and explosions.
Yes, stain rags and other materials used for oil-based products may cause fires or explosions. Thus, it is not uncommon to see spontaneous combustion as a result of irresponsible disposal of staining materials.
Many oil-based products can spontaneously heat up in different situations, especially when they are piled on top of other things or exposed to the sun. Why? Well, the heat from these materials may get trapped and start a fire that can immediately turn big.
Disposing Staining Rags
If you are wondering how to dispose of staining rags properly, follow these steps.
1. Submerging them in water
Grab an old metal container that has a firm lid and leave the rags inside. You can use an old metal paint container for this.
Next, pour cold water into it all the way to the brim. Add a heavy object on top of the rags before pouring in the water and firmly close the lid over the container.
This is a temporary storage solution. Eventually, you will have to follow the next step to dispose of them.
2. Leaving them out flat
You can also leave the materials in a spot without heat or sun exposure. Place them on a non-flammable surface away from hazardous materials.
Hang them separately or spread them out outdoors in a well-ventilated spot and let them dry for several days until they are hard and dry to the touch.
After this, follow the guidelines of your local hazardous waste disposal facility. You can ask them about their protocol for drop-offs if you are not sure how to go about it.
Reusing Staining Rags
It is commendable to practice sustainability by washing these rags for future use. However, this can be a dangerous thing to do. As a rule of thumb, stain rags are best for single use since washing oily rags can release toxic chemicals into the water systems and laundry machines.
Tips for Disposing Staining Rags
You have to be careful when disposing of oil stain brushes, rags, and materials due to their flammable nature. Here are tips that you should keep in mind:
- Avoid piling rags and materials in a pile together while still wet with oil
- Avoid throwing them into a trash can before they are fully dry
- Do not dry oily rags indoors and instead choose an airy outdoor spot without direct sunlight
- In case a fire breaks out, cover them with dirt or sand, only uncovering them once the fire is put out
- If a fire occurs indoors, use a fire extinguisher or ask for help from the fire department as soon as possible