Paint

Disposal

Paint can be toxic and dangerous to the environment if not disposed of properly. Follow these steps for safely getting rid of that extra paint that you no longer need.

Latex Paints

Step 1

Here's how to dispose of latex paint without taking it to a recycling center.

Add equal parts cat litter to latex paint in the can. If you have more than a half a can, you can also pour the paint into a lined box or trash can. Then pour in cat litter.

Step 2

Stir the cat litter into the paint until it thickens and will not spill. Allow the mixture to sit until it is no longer a liquid.

Step 3

Throw the dried paint in the trash. Make sure to remove the lid.
Good to Know
If you don't have much paint left in the can, you can just remove the lid and let the paint dry out on its own. Make sure that it's in a location where small children or pets can't get to it.
There are also commercial paint hardeners that you can purchase if you prefer not to use cat litter. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Oil-Based Paints & Stains

Oil-based paints are considered hazardous waste and must be taken to a Household Hazardous Waste Event to safely dispose of your latex and oil-based paints.

Good to Know

Consider donating your paint to a community center, charity, place of worship, local theater or Habitat for Humanity. They're often working on projects with a limited budget and could use the extra supplies.