Keith Homan / Shutterstock.com Auto Wax & Polish Illegal in Garbage/Recycling & Drains Hazardous Waste Keith Homan / Shutterstock.com The San Mateo County Health Department provides options for the safe disposal of automotive supplies including many waxes and chrome polish. Never Dump Down the Drain Auto wax and polish are flammable and can contaminate waterways. Never dump auto wax or polish in the trash or down the drain; dispose of them as Household Hazardous Waste. Did You Know? Eco-Friendly Car Care Products Some companies are developing car care products that are non-toxic and do not have to be rinsed off with water. One example is Nature’s Green Magic, which offers a variety of green, waterless car cleaning products.