Are you getting ready to start painting your house, but you aren’t sure what to do with the leftover paint?
To be honest, a lot of people find this an intimidating ordeal. The last thing you want to do is get rid of paint the wrong way, only to have it affect your environment and/or others.
Don’t let this issue stand in the way of your home improvement and interior design plans. There are numerous ways that you can dispose of paint and easily, as long as you know how to do it properly.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about disposing of paint properly!
1. Check Local Regulations
Depending on the region, local laws might require that old paint cans and unused paint be removed from the home and disposed of in a specific way. Some places might have designated hazardous waste facilities or collection sites where these materials can be dropped off.
Knowing the local regulations when dealing with old paint can help keep everyone safe and prevent any costly penalties. Be sure to research the disposal laws in the local community before disposing of old paint, as egregious violations could even result in prosecution.
2. Use Up or Donate Usable Paint
It is important to use up or donate any leftover paint that is still usable. If the paint is outdated or unusable, it should be properly disposed of according to local regulations. It is recommended that paint is taken to a local household hazardous waste disposal facility or a professional who specializes in paint disposal.
Prior to disposing of unused paint, the container should be properly sealed and labeled with the product name and date. Minimal amounts of paint may be mixed together to reduce the amount that needs to be disposed of.
3. Dry Out Latex Paint
Disposing of latex paint can be dried out with clay cat litter or a commercial paint hardener. Simply pour the paint into the litter or hardener and allow it to sit overnight. Once it is completely dry, the paint can be safely thrown out in the trash. As an extra precaution, consumers should double-bag the hard paint before placing it in the trash.
It is also important to remember when disposing of paint down the drain to check with local waste management regarding rules and guidelines. When in doubt, consumers should contact disposal companies for assistance.
4. Dispose of Oil-Based Paint as Hazardous Waste
When disposing of oil-based paint, it is important to remember that it is classified as hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly. Remember including ensuring that the paint is completely cured and dried, as any liquid paint is not accepted at most hazardous waste disposal sites.
It must be placed in tightly sealed containers, such as:
- plastic bags
- containers with secure lids
- labeled with identifying information
- product name
- date of disposal
If large quantities of paint are present, it is recommended that professional help is enlisted to ensure proper disposal. Before disposing of the paint, also remember to carefully rinse out any empty paint cans or containers with water.
Disposing of Paint The Proper Way
Our environment is precious and disposing of paint in a responsible manner is essential. By following the tips outlined in this article, paint can be safely and responsibly disposed of and sealed away from damaging our waterways. Never wait to dispose of paint- act now and start managing your paint waste efficiently!
If you’re interested in learning more tips, check out the rest of our blog today.