Silver Polish Illegal in Garbage & Drains Hazardous Waste Never Pour Down Drain Silver polish is toxic and can have negative health effects after it enters waterways, so do not pour down the drain. Empty Containers Are Garbage If your silver polish container is empty, make sure any leftover residue is completely dry. Then, it’s okay to place that container in the garbage. Ways to Reduce Skip the Silver Polish All Together Instead of buying toxic silver polish, try one of these safer options from Reader’s Digest.