Painting Services

How do I dispose of my old paint?

It’s time to clean out that shed! Look at all these cans…

 

This question is high up in the top 10 that my clients ask–especially after a fresh painting project.  Now that all the new colors are applied, what to do with all these old paint cans we kept from the past 10, 15, or 20 years?

 

Never fear–the answers are clear. But first, let me tell you how we help you avoid this paint can-pileup in the first place!

 

  1. We leave the remaining opened gallons for each color from your project and clearly label what it was used for.  Example – Boy’s Bedroom Walls; Kitchen Cabinets & Trim. Each gallon will have the product, sheen, and color formula clearly displayed on a label of the can from the paint provider.
  2. We don’t leave behind extra cans, duplicates, or empties that will just confuse you 5 years later!
  3. For EVERY project, we have records with our paint providers by addressing EXACTLY what products were purchased, including the product line, sheen, and color formulas.

 

So now that the future crisis is avoided, what do you do when you’re ready to clean out that shelf of the storage room or garage where the myriad of different products has piled up?

 

 

TO KEEP IT SIMPLE:

 

  1. Latex & water-based products can go in the trash IF they have completely hardened in the can. Do not dump these products into the sewer system, wastewater collection, or the environment.  Take liquid or semi-hardened cans, add kitty litter or paint hardener, and throw them in the trash after they’ve completely hardened.
  2. Oil & Solvent-Based products must be disposed of through an appropriate recycling center or on a Hazardous Materials Collection Day.  Do not pour these products into the sewer system, wastewater collection, or the environment. Do not throw them away into your trash–these products are flammable whether liquid or hardened.

 

If you live in East Baton Rouge Parish, here’s an easy guide straight from the City-Parish Government on how to handle paint products.  Here is their page with more comprehensive information.  The Parish hosts a Hazardous Materials Collection Day twice a year.

 

If you live in Ascension Parish, here is an article about their most recent Hazardous Materials Collection Day.

 

If you live in Livingston Parish, refer to the Livingston Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness for their next Hazardous Materials Collection Day.

 

It’s also worth mentioning that the Habitat for Humanity REStore will take unused or partially used latex paint, as well as unused construction materials!

Safe Disposal of Old Paint in Baton Rouge

Disposing of old paint responsibly is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe environment. In Baton Rouge, specific guidelines and services are available to help residents effectively manage their hazardous waste, including used paint cans. Understanding what to do with old paint and how to throw away old paint cans can prevent potential environmental harm.

Baton Rouge Hazardous Waste Disposal Services

The East Baton Rouge Parish offers several options for hazardous waste disposal, ensuring that residents have accessible ways to dispose of old paint and other dangerous materials. The Household Hazardous Materials Collection Days are pivotal events where individuals can bring their old paint records and used paint cans for proper disposal. These events testify to the community’s commitment to sustainable hazardous waste management practices.

How to Prepare Old Paint for Disposal

Before disposing of your old paint, you must know what type of paint you have. Latex paint, for example, can be dried out and disposed of with regular trash in some cases, while oil-based paints require special handling due to their hazardous nature. Adding absorbents like cat litter can expedite the drying process for latex paint. However, always check with the East Baton Rouge Parish dump guidelines or hazardous waste disposal services in Baton Rouge for specific instructions.

Repurposing and Recycling Old Paint

Can old paint be used? Absolutely. Before considering disposal, evaluate if the old paint can be repurposed for another project. Many community centers, non-profit organizations, and schools welcome donations of usable paint. Additionally, some facilities specialize in recycling old paint and turning it into new products. This approach not only reduces waste but also extends the life cycle of the paint.

Responsible disposal of used paint cans and old paint is critical in Baton Rouge. By taking advantage of local hazardous waste disposal services, correctly preparing your paint for disposal, and considering repurposing or recycling options, you contribute to a healthier environment and a cleaner community.

 

IF YOU FOUND THIS BLOG…

 

…you’re doing the right thing by disposing of your waste responsibly!  Thanks for considering the impact that discarded paint products have on our community and our environment.

 

Have a question about a Painting Project?  Give us a call at (225) 614-9520 and I’ll be your guide in transforming your home.  Or, look below and schedule your estimate today!

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