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 your project requires.
Use up all the paint you buy by adding an extra coat to an area which could use additional protection, or giving leftovers to a neighbor or community group.

Dispose of any 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 make 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 more information about the HHW Collection Center, click here

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.