Method #5 of How to Dispose of Paint is to recycle empty paint cans. – Ranjeet Mandal / EyeEm / Getty Images Once you’ve emptied a paint can, allow the residue to air-dry and then recycle the can with other metals. Berry stated that many community recycling programs accept paint cans in this manner, however you should first consult with local garbage hauler.
How can I properly discard paint in Illinois?
An entire shelf unit in our basement was stuffed with gallons of obsolete paint. In addition, we discovered three 5-gallon buckets of useless deck stain in the shed. We knew it couldn’t be thrown in a garbage can and taken to the curb, but we didn’t know what to do with it all.
I discovered on Facebook that I am not the only one who wants to know what to do with old paint. And this post included more useful information than merely paint application instructions. Government of the City of Rockford: What is the proper manner to dispose of old/used paint? i.e., cans containing paint that may or may not be suitable for use as paint.
The City of Rockford responded to Rob’s query in the comment section on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Illinois homeowners (not companies) can dispose of household hazardous garbage on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon at the Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Center at 3333 Kishwaukee Street.
to 4 p.m. Sundays, from noon to 4:00 pm, barring holidays. Aerosols, corrosives, oxidizers, solvents, oil-based paints, waste oil, pesticides, fertilizers, batteries (no alkaline), and fluorescent bulbs are examples of approved hazardous wastes. Latex paint is not permitted. Residents are encouraged to dispose of open cans of latex paint by allowing them to air-dry or by adding cat litter or oil dry to hasten the process of solidification.
On regular collection days, paint cans containing totally dried paint should be put adjacent to garbage cans carrying common household waste. Visit the Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful (KNIB) website if you are unsure what to do with possibly dangerous things you desire to dispose of.
How is paint hardened?
Incorporate sawdust or trash into the paint. Stir with a stick until well combined. (Alternatively, you can use a paint hardener purchased from a paint or hardware shop.) Add additional sawdust or litter as required until the mixture has a crumbly consistency.