Paint Disposal
Minimize your waste
- Buy only what you need to get the job done. Store retailers can help you calculate the right amount (or check out one of the paint calculators on the right side of this page) or check coverage rates of various products. In general, one gallon of paint will provede one coat of cover for 300 square feet.
- Use it up - apply another coat.
- Give it away to someone who can use it: friends, relatives, neighbors, churches, theatrical groups, high schools, recreation departments or community organizations. Only give away paint that is still in good condition and is still in its original container with an intact label.
- Store paint properly between uses:
- Protect from freezing
- Place a piece of kitchen plastic wrap on the surface of the paint to keep it from drying out or forming a skin
- Put the lid back on the can and tap firmly into place
Proper disposal of latex paint
Because latex paint is relatively non-toxic, it can be placed in the garbage if it is properly and completely solidified as long as your do the following:
First check to make sure it is latex paint - look on the label for “latex” or directions to clean up or thin with water. Oil-based or combustible paints and stains left over from home projects, whether liquid or solid, should be taken to the Dane County Clean Sweep Facility at 2302 Fish Hatchery Road for proper disposal.
Several methods to properly solidify latex paint are listed below:
- Remove the lid and let the paint dry out in the can; protect from freezing and rain as well as curious children and animals. This only works when an inch or less of paint is left in the can and is most effective in warmer months.
- Mix latex paint with an equal amount of cat litter, stir in completely and allow to dry.
- Mix latex paint with a latex paint hardener; stir and allow to harden. Paint hardener can be purchased at your local hardware store. Follow the directions on the package.
Once the latex paint has hardened or solidified, it can be trashed. However, make sure the lids are off when you set them at your curb, or place them in your Trash Cart if you have automated trash pickup. If you live in the City of Madison, then dried latex materials can be brought to the east or west brush drop-off sites for disposal.
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