As you embark on your spring cleaning efforts over the next few months, you may unearth some long-forgotten cans of paint from home improvement projects of yesteryear. If your goal is to maximize your storage space and clear out the clutter, you may be wondering to yourself, Should I throw away this old paint? Can it be tossed in the garbage can with the rest of my trash? 

Getting rid of old paint isn’t always a simple task. That’s why we’ve developed this handy guide to help you understand the importance of responsible paint disposal, explore eco-friendly options, and determine when it’s the right time to bid farewell to those half-empty cans.

Understanding the Environmental Impact

The old cans of paint gathering dust in your garage or basement may seem harmless, but improper disposal can have serious environmental consequences. Many paint products contain chemicals that can easily leach into the soil and water, posing a threat to our planet’s delicate ecosystems and potentially harming human health. In fact, taking the time to dispose of your old paint properly isn’t just an eco-friendly, responsible choice; it’s also a legal obligation in many areas.

When to Throw Away Old Paint

Just like food, paint has a shelf life. Over time, paint can separate, spoil, or otherwise become unusable. However, unlike the milk in your fridge, expiration dates for paint are not a hard-and-fast rule. With proper storage, paint can still be used after its expected shelf life has elapsed. 

As part of your decluttering efforts, check to see if your old paint has an expiration date printed on the can. Before tossing your expired paint, check whether it’s still in good condition. If you notice an unusual consistency, foul smell, or separation, it’s time to say goodbye. If none of these signs are present, you’re probably good to keep the paint around for a while longer.

How to Throw Away Old Paint

Now that you know how to determine whether or not you should throw away your old paint, let’s get into the proper disposal methods.

Check Local Regulations

Before you part ways with your old cans of paint, research local disposal regulations. Different areas have specific guidelines, and some even offer recycling programs. If you’re unsure what your city’s regulations are, contact your local waste management department or environmental agency for guidance on properly disposing of paint in your region.

Donate or Share

If you have usable leftover paint after a project that you no longer need, consider donating or sharing it rather than throwing it out. Local schools, community centers, or nonprofit organizations may be able to use it for art projects, theater sets, murals, or facility maintenance. Donations are a great way to reduce waste and give back to the community.

Latex Paint: Dry It Out

To dispose of latex-based paints, remove the lid and leave the paint in a well-ventilated area to dry out. You can stir it occasionally to speed up the process. Once it has solidified, it’s safe to toss it out with your regular household trash.

Oil Paint: Hazardous Waste Facilities

Oil-based paints contain chemicals that contaminate water and soil when improperly disposed of. Never throw away oil-based paint — instead, take it to a hazardous waste facility, where it can be handled safely. Ensure you follow the facility’s guidelines for drop-off.

Recycling Programs

Some areas have paint recycling programs that accept both latex- and oil-based paints. These eco-friendly programs often involve mixing leftover paint to create recycled products or using old paint as fuel. Some states even offer take-back programs that take the paint off your hands or connect you with places looking for donations. Check with your local authorities to see if either option is available in your area.

Professional Painting Services From Brush Brothers

At Brush Brothers, we understand that we have a responsibility to contribute to a healthier environment and a safer, cleaner community. By helping homeowners understand when and how to throw away old paint, we do our part to make a positive impact on our surroundings and ensure a sustainable future.

The next time you’re considering a fresh coat of paint to enhance your home’s interior or exterior, give the experts at Brush Brothers a call. With our extensive knowledge and years of experience, we are known for providing excellent service. From the initial consultation to the final brushstroke, we take care of every little detail, ensuring a flawless finish.

If you’ve been on social media for the past couple of years, you’ve probably heard about the “landlord special” — a trend where people show painting mistakes and lackluster DIY fixes in their rented dwellings. From colorful splatters on the floor to painted-over outlets and hinges, the lack of attention to detail can make an otherwise okay living space feel drab and dreary.

Despite its name, the “landlord special” can be performed by anyone, regardless of their profession. Don’t give in to the temptation to get the job done quickly and cheaply — when it comes to creating a warm, welcoming home, it’s worth it to spend a little extra time and money on doing things the right way.

Whether you’re a landlord or not, keep reading to learn six common painting mistakes you should avoid next time you decide to refresh your home.

#1. Insufficient Surface Preparation

Without proper surface preparation, you’re making a crucial painting mistake before even picking up a brush. It may not be very fun, but it’s essential for achieving a smooth finish that will last for years to come. 

Ensure you clean, sand, and prime the walls before painting, along with filling any holes. Skipping these tedious steps may not seem like a big deal, but insufficient preparation can lead to poor adhesion, peeling, and uneven surfaces. 

#2. Skipping Test Patches

Choosing the perfect paint color is a crucial decision that significantly impacts the overall aesthetic of a space. Because of this, it’s important to paint small test patches on the walls before making your final decision. This allows you to see how the color appears in different lighting conditions and evaluate whether it works in the environment, saving you from costly mistakes and rework.

#3. Neglecting to Tape Edges

You may think you’re careful enough to paint the edges of your walls without taping off the ceiling, baseboards, windows, or shelves, but all it takes is one wrong move before you’ve accidentally smeared paint where it doesn’t belong. Removing paint is much harder than applying it. You can avoid this painting mistake by using painter’s tape to carefully mask anything you don’t want to get paint on.

In addition to taping edges, it’s also a good idea to use drop cloths to protect your furniture and floors. Drips and splatters happen, no matter how cautious you are. It’s better to get paint on an old bedsheet or tarp than on your dining table or carpet.

#4. Not Removing Outlet Covers and Hardware

Before painting, you should remove everything that’s in the way. This may include outlet covers, light switches, hinges, doorknobs, light fixtures, and other hardware. If it can be taken off, do it! Never paint over anything because you’re too lazy to remove it — this “landlord special” is one of the most common painting mistakes you see in halfhearted painting jobs.

#5. Using Low-Quality Paint and Tools

In an effort to save money, you may find yourself reaching for cheap paint and tools. Don’t fall victim to this painting mistake! Low-quality paint often results in subpar finishes, inadequate coverage, color variations, and increased labor. In addition to using quality paint, investing in top-of-the-line brushes, rollers, and other tools will give you better control over the painting process and ensure smoother application. These products may cost a bit more, but the end result is worth the investment.

#6. Rushing the Drying Process

In your busy day-to-day life, you may not have a lot of time to dedicate to home improvement projects. However, patience is an important virtue in the world of painting. Rushing the drying process by applying additional coats before the previous one has dried completely is a definite painting mistake, resulting in streaks, smudges, and an uneven finish. It’s essential to allow each coat to dry sufficiently (according to the manufacturer’s instructions) before proceeding to the next step.

Avoid Painting Mistakes by Hiring a Professional

The easiest way to avoid these painting mistakes is to hire a professional painting contractor like Brush Brothers. We have extensive experience completing painting projects large and small, and we are known for our attention to detail throughout every step of the process. 

When you work with Brush Brothers, you can rest assured that we will carefully prepare the surfaces to be painted, protect your furniture and floors, tape off all edges, use only the best products, and allow the paint to fully dry between coats. Experience the Brush Brothers difference by contacting us today to get started on your next project.