Proper Disposal For Latex Paint
Livingston County, MichiganDPW/Solid WasteProper Disposal For Latex Paint

Proper Disposal For Latex Paint

GOT PAINT?

An average of two gallons of household paint is sold for each person in the United States each year. If improperly disposed, paint products can be highly toxic to the environment – it can harm fish and wildlife, contaminate water, and cause sewage treatment systems to be less effective. 

Did you know…?

Latex paint is non-hazardous once it is dry and can be thrown out with the regular trash.
 
The clean-up instructions on the can of paint will tell you if your paint is latex or water based paint.

When buying and using paint, remember the “BUDDY” System

Buy only what you need. Measure your walls or ask your retailer for help in estimating how much paint you will need.                    
Use up all the paint you buy by adding an extra coat for additional protection, or giving leftovers to a neighbor or community group.
Dispose of leftovers safely and responsibly. Do not place any liquid paint in the garbage, down any drains, or on the ground.               
Do not allow paint to freeze. Store paint for years by placing plastic wrap over the opening and making sure the lid fits tightly. Turn the can upside-down to form a tight seal.
You will help protect the environment and save money in the process if you follow these simple steps.
 

WHAT DO I DO WITH LATEX PAINT?

Latex paint is water based. Read the side of the can – if the clean-up instructions indicate soap and water, then it is latex paint. To dispose of latex paint:
  •  Open the containers in a well ventilated area away from pets and children
  •  To speed up the drying process, add kitty litter, sawdust, or other absorbent material. Or spread some of the paint on cardboard, scrap wood, or drywall.
  •  When the paint is completely dry, leave the lids OFF and place the cans next to your regular trash 

WHAT DO I DO WITH OIL-BASED PAINT?

Oil based paint products, including stains, primers, thinners, lacquers, mineral spirits and turpentine, require solvents or mineral spirits for clean-up. Also, if the warning label says “Combustible”, it is oil based.
 
Oil based paint products should be used sparingly and any leftovers or old products should be taken to the Livingston County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center.
 
To make an appointment to drop off your oil based paint or other chemicals, contact solidwaste@livgov.com  or 517-545-9609.

FOR BUSINESSES, CONTACT A HAZARDOUS WASTE HAULER TO DISPOSE OF OIL BASED PAINT

Environmental Recycling Group (ERG) Ph: 734-437-9650  http://ergenvironmental.com/ 

US Ecology (EQ Industrial Services) HHW Hotline: 313-923-2240  www.eqonline.com 

Sorry, EPA and State regulations do not allow businesses (including governments, schools and religious organizations) to use the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Center. Businesses must properly dispose of all hazardous materials generated. Visit the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality’s website at www.michigan.gov/deq  for more information.