Here are six steps that you can take to avoid creating or improperly disposing of leftover paint. But remember: with so many other environment-friendly ways to deal with leftover paint, disposal is really your “last resort”.

1. FIRST, ALWAYS BUY ONLY WHAT YOU NEED AND USE IT UP.
   When you buy only the paint you need and then use it up, there isn’t any paint left over to dispose. It’s called “source reduction and it’s the same idea behind manufacturers getting rid of excess packaging, like cardboard CD boxes. When you can avoid creating waste or using excessive packaging at the start, you avoid polluting the environment later.
   
   
2. RECYCLE THE EMPTY CAN.
   Check with your local recycling coordinator to determine if paint cans can be placed with other bottles and cans for local recycling collections.
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3. STORE PAINT PROPERLY FOR FUTURE PROJECTS.
   Did you know that when properly stored, paint can last for years! Just make sure the lid fits securely so the paint doesn’t leak, and store the paint can upside down. The paint will create a tight seal around the lid, keeping the paint resh until you need it again for use on touch-up jobs and smaller projects.
   
   
4. DONATE IT.
   Always donate your usable leftover paint to churches, community groups, theater groups, and others who need or want it before considering any form of disposal. Almost everyone can use up or donate leftover paint. But, if you still have leftover latex or solvent-based paint, disposal is your last resort…
   
   
5. DRY LEFTOVER LATEX-BASED PAINT AND DISCARD IT.
   Let your leftover LATEX paint air dry, ideally, away from children and pets. You can even add an absorbent material such as cat box filler to speed drying, then throw the paint away with your normal trash. Remember, air drying liquid oil-based paint is generally not recommended, but if the paint has already solidified in a closed can, you can dispose of it in the regular trash.
   
   
6. BRING LEFTOVER LIQUID PAINT to the Monmouth County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility.