How to Get Rid of Unused Paint
Posted on June 5, 2019
Nearly every homeowner has at least a portion of a gallon of unused paint sitting in their garage. Did you know leftover paint can be hazardous? Chemicals in the paint can leak into the ground, leach into water supplies or contaminate septic systems. Disposal of the paint is strictly regulated and must be adhered to for safety. Here’s how to get rid of unused paint.
Throw it away
Before you toss that can in the trash, take into consideration the safety of the sanitation workers. Wet paint can be very hazardous, so it’s best to dry it out. If your can has a small amount in the bottom, open it and leave it out in the sun for a day. If that isn’t enough, add some newspaper crumpled up or kitty litter.
Local laws will govern your next step. Most locations allow for dried out paint to be thrown away with the trash. Each municipality has its own governance so check with local laws. If you deal with an incinerator, or chute, find another way to dispose of it.
Use it
Are there are projects around your home that could benefit from a coat of paint? Try to make use of the leftovers in repurposing it for something else. Paint a piece of furniture or accent wall in your home with the leftover color.
Donation
If curbside isn’t an option, there are still options for removal of paint from your home. Companies like Habitat for Humanity and PaintCare take leftover gallons of paint to donate to charities or sell in their re-sale stores. Theater departments and schools are always looking for donations of paint for productions or projects. Sites like upcycle.com or freecycle.com offer places to pass your cast offs to others who can use it. Some offer trade options.
Hazardous Waste Drop Off
Some areas have drop off sites that are made specifically for disposal of waste like this. They know the proper ways to get rid of chemicals, products and items like paint with little impact to the environment.
Save it
If you have a decent amount of paint left in the can, save it. You can store latex paint for up to 10 years, and oil-based for 15. This way if a water leak destroys a wall, or a little one take a marker to the closet, you’re prepared with the paint to correct the damage. The EPA recommends labeling the can with the date you opened it, and keeping it in its original container.
For best results, place plastic wrap over the paint lid and hammer it down with a mallet. Store it in a cool and dry place away from the sun, children and pets. If it gets hard, lumpy, smelly, it’s time to get rid of it.
