Once you've completed a home improvement project, you may end up with half a bucket of paint that needs to be thrown away. However, depending on the type of paint, you might be able to save it for future use or recycle it. If neither option applies, you should dispose of the paint at a hazardous waste facility. Let's explore how to properly get rid of paint.

Method One: Disposing of Latex Paint

Step 1. Consider saving the paint.

Step 1

Don't rush to throw away the paint! Latex paint can be saved, thinned, and reused in the future. While the color may change, it can serve as a base coat or for interior touch-ups. This way, you can maximize the use of your leftover paint and avoid disposal.

  • Make sure to tightly seal the bucket and store it upside down in a cool, dry place.
  • Ensure that the paint is out of reach of children and pets.

Step 2. Check local paint recycling programs.

Step 2

Find out if there are any paint recycling programs in your area. Just because you no longer need the paint doesn't mean it can't be useful to someone else. Contact local recycling organizations to learn about opportunities for repurposing paint in your city.

  • Often, such programs are organized by schools, municipalities, and waste management companies that collect and recycle paint for community needs.

Step 3. Dispose of the paint if you can't give it away.

Step 3

If you can't find someone to take the paint, dispose of it. Pour the leftover paint into a plastic container filled with cat litter or paper, let it dry, and then throw it in the trash. Latex paint is non-toxic, so it doesn't need to be treated as hazardous waste.

  • Never pour paint down the sink, as it can damage pipes.
  • Do not pour paint on the ground, as it's harmful to the environment.
  • If you have a lot of latex paint, consider buying a special powder that turns it into solid waste. One cup of this powder per 4 liters of paint will solidify it in a few hours.

Step 4. Dispose of paint cans.

Step 4

Before throwing away the cans, make sure they are completely dry. After that, they can go in the regular trash.

  • If there is even a drop of paint left at the bottom of the can, that can should also be disposed of in the trash.

Method Two: Disposing of Oil-Based Paint

Step 1. Check the label on the paint.

Step 1

Be sure to check the label for metals or other hazardous substances. Many old oil-based paints require special disposal at hazardous waste landfills.

Step 2. Let the paint dry.

Step 2

Open the lid of the can and allow the paint to dry. To speed up this process, add absorbent materials like cat litter, sawdust, or cement.

  • Do not pour oil-based paint down the sink or on the ground. This is illegal and harmful to the environment.

Step 3. Dispose of the paint at a special location.

Step 3

Take the paint to a hazardous waste recycling facility. By using the link search.earth911.com/?what=Paint and entering your zip code, you can find the nearest disposal site.