How to Dispose of Old Paint

It is not often that cans of paint are used in their entirety. More often than not, partially empty cans of paint are stashed in a basement, a utility room, or another storage area where they sit for years or even decades. Some people keep the leftovers for touchups, and this is a wise decision if the cans are properly sealed, but others decide to dispose of partial cans, and they go about it carelessly. Most people realize it is not safe for the environment to throw away partial cans of paint, but some still decide to hide the partial cans by placing them in solid-colored bags along with other trash. They get rid of their problem, but besides causing potential harm to the environment they cause messy problems for trash collectors. When the trash in compacted within the truck, the cans are crushed. This causes a tremendous mess that must be washed out at the end of the day.

If you have cans of old paint that you want to dispose of, consider the following information. Instead of hiding paint in bags of trash, do your part to protect the environment. Follow the rules and dispose of paint properly. It is not difficult, and you will be doing your best to keep potentially harmless materials out of groundwater where it could become a hazard to humans as well as wildlife.

Give it Away

Do not dispose of useable household paint. Instead of throwing away paint that is still good, contact your local Habitat for Humanity and offer to give it away. You might think the amount you have to offer is not enough, but when combined with paint donated by other thoughtful people it can go a long way.

Dispose of Alkyd Products at a Hazardous Waste Facility

Old oil-based products should not be thrown away with the trash. Dispose of alkyd paint in an eco-friendly way by taking it to a hazardous waste facility. Many cities and towns designate days for dropping off hazardous materials such as household cleaners and painting products. Otherwise, contact your local home improvement retailer for recommendations on where to drop it off for proper disposal.

Let it Dry Up Before Disposal

Although most refuse companies will not take cans that contain leftover products, many will accept open cans containing dry paint. Place partial cans in a safe location away from children and pets, and fill them with cat litter. The cat litter will help it dry faster by absorbing the liquid, and in a matter of days you can dispose of it with the weekly trash.

Calculate More Carefully in the Future

The best way to avoid waste is through careful calculation. Before beginning your next painting project, carefully calculate the amount required. Read product label instructions for specific recommendations, and only buy the necessary amount of eco-friendly paint from a low VOC line of colors. Keep the brand information and a paint chip sample including mixing instructions for future reference. Not only will you save money but you will also avoid having to dispose of leftovers.