Tips for Storing and Disposing Paint

What to do with usable, leftover paint

• Avoid having leftover paint by buying only the amount you need to do the job. Consult with the retailer to determine the surface area and the amount of paint needed to cover this area.
• Use up any leftover paint. Some suggested ways to do this include applying another coat to the surface until the paint is gone, painting a doghouse or other small structure, or using it as a primer coat for another project.
• If you cannot use it up, see if a friend or neighbor is willing to use it. Other groups to contact to see if they need usable latex paint include theater groups, community betterment groups, schools and day care centers, and graffiti removal projects. Before sharing usable latex paint, determine if it contains mercury. If it does, inform your recipient and suggest they use it only for exterior surfaces.

How to store paint so that it will remain usable

• Store the tightly sealed paint can upside-down, so that the paint will form a seal around the lid.
• Store paint cans in dry areas that will not freeze.
• Store paint cans away from sources of spark or flame.

What to do with unusable paint

• Never put liquid paint into the trash or pour it down the drain. Paint disposed of this way can contaminate our water resources and the environment.
• If there is a small amount of latex paint left, open lid and let dry. Once completely dry, take to the Citrus County Central Landfill for proper disposal.
• Latex Paint, Oil Base Paint and Aerosol Paint may be taken to the Citrus County Central Landfill during the published days and times for paint recycling.

How to dispose of empty paint cans

• Take to the Citrus County Central Landfill for proper disposal.

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