Paint

The best way to dispose of paint is to use it all up.

When purchasing paint products, estimate the proper amount needed to get the job done and boy only what you need.

FOR AN ONLINE PAINT CALCULATOR TO HELP YOU BUY THE AMOUNT YOU NEED, CLICK HERE.

Careful measurement of your room (with deductions for windows and doors) or the objects you plan to paint will help you estimate how much paint you will need. Also, read paint labels for information about coverage. An average coverage rate is 400 to 450 square feet per gallon for one-coat coverage. That figure may vary depending on the condition of the surface you are painting and the type of paint product you are using.

Today, matching colors to older paint is easier with improved color-matching techniques, so it is not necessary to buy more than you need in fear that you won’t be able to match the color at a later date.

****Paint products are not designed to be emptied into storm sewers, household drains (especially if you have a septic tank) or on the ground. ****

Know what kind of paint you have.
Household paints fall into one of two general categories: latex, in which the major liquid ingredient is water, and alkyd or oil-based, which contains some sort of solvent. If you’re unsure, check the cleanup instructions on the label. Latex product can be cleaned with soap and water; cleanup of alkyd products requires paint thinner or mineral spirits. Most household paints are water-based latex formulations.

Store paint so it lasts for years.
When properly stored, paint can last for years. Just cover the opening with plastic wrap and make sure the lid fits securely so the paint doesn’t leak out. Then, store the paint can upside down. The paint will create a tight seal around the lid, keeping the paint fresh until you need it again. As a general rule, paint that mixes smoothly when stirred can still be used.
If you have a full, unopened can of stock (factory-mixed) color (not custom-tinted paint), check with your dealer or retailer to see if you can return it for a refund.

The best way to dispose of paint is to use it up.
Apply a second coat or touch up areas which need improvement. Only a small amount of paint is needed to paint a chair or table. Neighbors, friends, churches, high schools, theater groups, recreation departments or community serve organizations will often accept donated “leftover” paint. Make sure that any product you provide is in its original container with the label intact and not contaminated with other products.

b. Reusing Paint Thinners, Turpentine, Mineral Spirits and Solvents

Paint thinners, turpentine, mineral spirits, and solvents can be reused. These products, like solvent-based or alkyd paints, should not be emptied into storm sewers, household drains (especially if you have a septic tank) or on the ground. Reuse these types or products.

REUSE STEPS

Put used turpentine or brush cleaners in a closed container and leave it in a safe place until the paint particles settle to the bottom.

Pour off the clear liquid into an empty, clean container which has a lid for reuse.

Add an absorbent material such as cat box filler, shredded newspaper or sawdust to the remaining residue.

Let this residue dry completely before disposing of it in your regular trash.

No matter how you make use or dispose of your leftover paint, remember-never contaminate it by pouring anything else into the can!

c. Disposal: LATEX and Small Amounts of Oil-based Paint

Dry out latex paint and small quantities of oil-based paint according to the following directions.

Step 1:
Find an outside work area away from children, pets, and rain. Locked screen porches and balconies work well. Because oil-based paint contains solvents and some old latex paint contains mercury, it’s important to dry out paint outdoors in a safe place.

Step 2:
Dry it out. Remove the lid and let the paint dry in the can. Stir the paint occasionally to speed drying. Or, brush paint in layers on newspaper or cardboard. For larger amounts of latex: Pour one-inch layers of paint into a cardboard box lined with plastic. Allow the paint to dry one layer at a time – thin layers will speed up the drying process. Or, mix paint with cat litter, sawdust or sand in a cardboard box lined with plastic and let it dry. For faster drying try "Waste Paint Hardener". Click here for more information and stores that carry it.

Step 3:
Throw the dried paint, cans and other materials in the trash. Leave the lids off paint cans so trash collectors will see that the paint is dry and accept them.

d. Solvent-Based Paint Disposal

Solvent-based paint or alkyd paints require special disposal practices. Solvent-based paints are ignitable and present particular hazards. These products should not be emptied into storm sewers, household drains (especially if you have a septic tank) or on the ground.

Save solvent-based paints for the household hazardous waste collection program (see link in left margin for more information)

Note: Information reprinted with permission from the National Paint and Coatings Association, Washington, DC.