Simple Steps for Paint Disposal
Purchase only what you need; donate leftover materials.
Give leftovers to community service organizations (theater groups, recreation departments) or to a non-profit that does remodeling work. When donating paint, contact the organization first to learn their requirements.
Leave leftover paint for the homeowner for future touch ups.
Wash latex painting tools in an interior sink.
Dry out latex paint by thickening it with cat litter, sand, dry dirt or a commercial paint hardener.
Leave the paint can lid off so trash collectors will know it is a solid. Some paint haulers will not take liquid.
Ship latex paint to a paint recycler.
Mix leftover paints to create a primer for future projects.
Dispose of drywall compound as a solid.
Do not pour or wash leftover paint, thinner, solvents and other chemicals and/or drywall compound down the drain, on the ground, in a storm sewer, or in the trash.
Do not dispose of used paint cans in a non-sealed dumpster.
Contain chips, peel and flakes of dried lead-based paint to prevent contaminating your work-site.