ABOUT PAINT
Liquid Paints - Although there are thousands of different paint and paint related products on the market, they consist of 2 general types: oil-based and water-based (latex).
Latex Paint - Water-based products are generally safer to use and less harmful to the environment. Full or partially full cans of latex paint can be brought to a SWA household hazardous waste collection site. Good, usable latex paint may be sent to a paint manufacturer and recycled. The SWA recycled over 5,000 gallons of paint last year. If available, Non-profit organizations may be eligible to receive free recycled paint through the SWA's Community Service Program.
Smaller amounts of latex paint can be easily dried out and thrown away with your household garbage. Remove the lid and add sand, cat litter, or sawdust to absorb the liquid and let it dry. Leave the lid off of the container when disposing.
Spray Cans - Aerosol cans are pressurized. In addition to containing a flammable propellant they often contain toxic materials. Empty, depressurized aerosol cans may be placed in your household garbage. If the nozzle functions properly, spray it until empty and place in the garbage. If the can still has product in it that cannot be sprayed out, bring it to a household hazardous waste collection site.
Oil-based Paint & Thinners - Oil-based products are often flammable, release greater amounts of harmful vapors into the air, and may contain toxic chemicals or metals.
Dry Paint - Any paint product that is already dry can be safely disposed in the garbage. This includes empty containers. Please leave the lid off when disposing.