Whether it’s part of a large remodeling project or a just to freshen up one room in your home, your next painting project is likely to generate some leftover paint. What should you do with it? If you anticipate future paint projects, you could mix light colors together to use as a primer. Another option is to donate it to a community service organization, theater group, school, parks and recreation department, or non-profit whose mission involves building or distributing building-related materials. It’s a good idea to call first to find out if they can use what you have.
If you are not able to find someone who can put your paint to use, latex (water-based) paint can be disposed of with your household trash only after it has been dried to a solid. Air drying can take time. Additives are available that can harden it quickly. Non-latex paint is considered hazardous and must be disposed of through a hazardous waste collection program. Information about the facility SWACO operates in Franklin County is at swaco.org. Last but not least, when cleaning up after your painting project, remember to wash latex painting tools in an interior sink rather than outside.