Paint Doesn’t Have to Go to Waste

What happens when the paint job is over and you didn’t use every drop of paint like you had hoped? Leftover paint can be hazardous, as it contains materials that can leak into the ground, cause physical injury to sanitation workers, or contaminate septic tanks. We’re here to teach you how to properly dispose of paint or re-use it for a touch-up.

Did you know that latex paint can last up to 10 years, and oil-based paint up to 15,if sealed properly. If you ever  need to spruce up a room or utilize old paint for various projects not related to your home, having extra paint around can be useful. The EPA recommends keeping paint in its original container and with the original label. You’ll also want to add the date you opened it and room it corresponds to.When sealing the can, place plastic wrap over the paint lid and make sure it is sealed tight. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and out of reach of children and pets.

If you check on your paint and find that it is hard and lumpy, or has a particularly foul smell, it has most likely gone bad and should be properly disposed.If you know you won’t use leftover paint again, we recommend trying to reuse or recycle it. Use the leftover to revamp old furniture, or lend it to a friend who is in need of paint. Green building companies often take leftover paint so it’s a good idea to check your community listings for these companies.Wet latex paint can be dangerous, so be sure to dry it up by leaving it out in the sun, adding kitty litter or newspaper to help soak up the paint or purchasing a paint hardener at your nearest home improvement store. Although you can throw away dried-out paint with the rest of your household trash, double check by addressing local laws.

If you still aren’t sure or comfortable properly disposing of leftover paint  let professionals handle it. Companies like Lowe’s or your nearest hazardous waste drop-off facility would be happy to take leftover paint off your hands.Although it never hurts to know how to utilize leftover paint, always get a good estimate of how much to buy ahead of time so you don’t end up with much left over.