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Disposing of Leftover Paint
Your shoulders are stiff, your neck is kinked, and your knees can’t hold you up any longer. Interior painting is a tough job. Now that your project is over and you’re feeling good about how it turned out, you still have to decide what to do with the extra paint that’s leftover.
Depending on the severity of your aches and pains, you may decide that throwing your paint out is the easiest option while you’re drawing a hot bath for yourself.
But not so fast! Disposing of paint might not be as easy as dropping the can next to the garbage bin out on the curb. Not only must you comply with your state’s regulations for getting rid of leftover paint, but there are far more beneficial recycling options you can consider.
Donate Your Paint
One of the most wonderful ideas is to donate your paint to organizations. Depending on the recipient’s size and the amount of leftover paint, options include community not-for-profits, schools, or houses of worship. An amount of leftover paint considerably less than what an organization may be able to use might interest friends, neighbors, or community members in need of a small amount.
Acrylic and Latex Paints
Depending on if the paint is water-based latex/acrylic paint or oil-based paint, you may be able to get rid of your small amount of paint by drying it out and tossing it in the garbage. You can dry out a water-based latex/acrylic paint in an uncovered can and add it to your regular garbage. Because it is considered hazardous waste, oil-based paint cannot be thrown out with the trash. You can dry oil-based paint in a similar manner, but in order to rid yourself of the paint, you must contact your local landfill or county office to find a drop-off center.
Keep It in Storage
If you decide you would like to keep your paint for another project, you have many options for safe storage. The most basic step to maintaining your paint’s usability is to prevent air exposure. The single best option is to correspond the container size with the amount of leftover paint. Options include bottles, jars, and Tupperware containers. If you must keep the paint in the can, you can line the surface of the paint with foil. Whatever you decide, keep your paint labeled and stored away from extreme temperatures. This way, you’ll have paint ready for your next project!
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