Oil-based paint contains chemicals, such as solvents and metals, that can damage the environment, especially our water supplies, and endanger human health if not disposed of properly.
DO NOT:
Pour paint down the drain. The untreated chemicals may be
discharged to rivers and streams and contaminate these waters.
Throw paint in the trash in liquid form. In the landfill, it can
seep down through the garbage, mixing with rainwater and other
liquids, which may contaminate groundwater.
PLEASE:
Choose water-based (latex) paints instead of oil-based when
possible.
Choose non-aerosol paints instead of spray paints.
Buy only the amount of paint needed for a project.
Donate unused paint to someone who can use it (a neighbor, community theater group, low-income agency, parks systems, schools, etc.).
How do I safely dispose of unusable water-based (latex) paint?
Completely dried and hardened paint can be put in the trash.
Leave lids off cans so workers will know the paint is dried out.
Liquid paint needs to be dried out in an area with adequate ventilation (preferably outside), out of reach of children and pets. Be very careful not to inhale the fumes.
Smaller quantities can be dried by removing the lid and allowing the liquids in the can to evaporate. Stir occasionally to hasten drying.
Larger quantities can be poured in layers (about one-half inch thick) in a cardboard box lined with plastic, newspaper or kitty litter. Repeat layers as necessary.
For paint that has separated and cannot be mixed, pour off the clear liquids on top, leaving a semi-solid paint sludge in the can to dry. Pour the liquid into a cardboard box lined with plastic and mix an equal part amount of absorbent materials (such as kitty litter). The end product should be similar in texture to the absorbent.