Dispose of leftover paint and paint tins responsibly

Leftover paint is a common sight after redecorating, but what’s the best way to get rid of it responsibly? Throwing it in the bin or down the drain is a big environmental no-no. Fortunately, with a little care, you can dispose of your unwanted paint and paint tins in a safe and eco-conscious way.

Water-based vs. oil-based paints

The disposal method for your paint depends on whether it’s water-based or oil-based:

  • Water-based paints (acrylics, emulsions): These are the most common type for interior walls and ceilings.

  • Oil-based paints (gloss, undercoats): These are tougher and used on surfaces like wood and metal. Oil-based paints are considered hazardous waste.

Disposing of larger amounts of paint

If you have a significant amount of paint that has solidified on its own:

  • Add sawdust, soil, or even cat litter to the tin to speed up the process.
  • Once hardened, check your local recycling center’s policies – you may be able to put metal paint tins in with household recycling or take the tins to the dump.

Recycling empty paint tins

  • Empty metal tins: These can usually be recycled with your regular household metal recycling. Give them a rinse first.
  • Empty plastic tins: Many recycling centers don’t accept plastic paint tubs yet, so check your council website.

For larger quantities of paint or specialised help with paint disposal, Foila offers tailored waste management solutions. We’ll collect your old paint, ensure it’s handled responsibly, and recycle or repurpose whatever we can.

Contact us for a quote today!

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