Full Text
What to do with Leftover Paint Outlets for leftover paint How to determine if old paint is usable Oil-based paint disposal If you do not want to put a second coat on the item being painted or cannot save for future use, give it to a neighbor, church, community group or some- one who can use it. Oil-based paint can be good up to 15 years. Latex paint is usable if it is less than 10 years old and has not been repeatedly frozen. If paint will mix when you stir it, it is probably usable. You can also brush it on newspaper or strain it with a paint strainer to see if it has any lumps. If there are no lumps, the paint is usable. Oil-based paint is combustible and is a hazardous waste. It should be saved for a hazardous waste drop-off event. Call Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County at (315) 255-1183 for more information. Latex Paint Disposal If unusable, here’s how to properly dispose of latex (water-based) paint: CCE Education Center 199 Franklin St. Suite 204 Auburn, NY 13021 (315) 255- 1183 * FAX (315) 255- 1187 E-mail [EMAIL REDACTED] 1. Remove and discard the paint can lid. 2. Make sure the paint can is 1/2 full or less (if can is more than half-full, pour excess into another container like a milk jug or coffee can). 3. Add clay-based kitty litter or absorbent material so that the can is 3/4 full. 4. Stir the paint/kitty litter mixture. 5. If liquid paint remains, add more kitty litter. 6. Allow paint/kitty litter mixture to air dry (in a well-ventilated area) until hard. This may take several days or weeks. 7. Dispose of can in the garbage. **Do not put the lid back on the paint can!** Cans will not be picked up by your trash hauler if they cannot see the paint is dry. Liquid paint can harm workers. It can also spill from the truck onto streets and/or vehicles.