Your old paint's not just clutter — it’s toxic if dumped wrong. Here's the fix.

May 24, 2025

Still Got That Old Tin in the Shed?

Whether it’s half a can of ceiling white, a crusty roller tray, or those paint-stiffened brushes you swore you’d clean later — the quiet truth is, leftover paint and gear sticks around way longer than it should. If you're nodding, you’re in good company. But leaving them to age in peace isn’t your only option — or the best one.

Leftover Paint: More Than Just a Shelf Hog

Think about it. A forgotten tin of enamel might not seem like a big deal, but it can turn into a whole thing. Dried lids fused shut. Fumes escaping. Curious kids poking. Worse — folk trying to wash paint down the drain because it “just felt easier”.

But the truth is, paint is full of chemicals that can damage our waterways and soil. Even water-based options are no angels. And accessories? Brushes, rollers, trays — if they’ve still got wet paint on them, they carry the same risk.

“Treated properly, leftover paint doesn’t have to be a hazard — or a waste. It can be useful, or it can be safely cleared out. Either way, it shouldn’t be ignored.” — Candeece

So... What Do You Do With It?

The good news? Sorting out old paint and gear is actually pretty simple, once you know what goes where. Let’s break it down:

1. Store It Right, First

Keep paint sealed tight — lids firmly pushed down with a block of wood, not your hands.
Label what room or job you used it for, and the date. Future You will thank you.
Store tins off concrete floors to avoid rust. A shelf in a dry shed or garage is ideal.

If the paint’s still usable — keep it! It’s handy for touch-ups, little jobs, or donating to community projects if you’re done with it.

2. If It’s Gone Off? Time to Say Goodbye

Paint does go bad over time — especially if it’s been open, exposed to air, or not stored properly. Signs it’s turned:

A skin on top that doesn’t stir in
Foul smell (think soured milk)
Chunky texture that won’t smooth out

Don’t pour it down the drain. Don’t put it in the red bin. Here’s what to do instead.

3. Use a Community Paint Disposal Drop-Off

Thanks to programs like Paintback, you can drop off old paint and related materials for safe disposal — free of charge. They turn it into alternative fuels and treat solvent-based options the right way.

Here's what they accept at designated drop points:

Old paint (interior/exterior)
Primers, varnishes, sealers
Wood treatments, stains
Empty or half-full tins

Many councils also run hazardous waste collection days — keep an eye on your local calendar.

4. What About Brushes, Rollers, and Trays?

If they’re clean: They go in your normal bin. But “clean” means you've scraped off all excess paint, rinsed thoroughly (if water-based), and let them dry.

If they’re still loaded with paint: Let them dry completely outdoors (on newspaper or an old board). Once they’re dried solid, they can be safely binned.

5. Harden Up Leftover Paint Before Tossing

Still got bits left in the tin, but nothing worth saving? Here’s a trick:

Mix in kitty litter or sawdust to dry out latex (water-based) paint
Let oil-based paint dry naturally with the lid off

Once solidified, you can toss the whole tin — lid off — into the waste bin in many areas. But always check your local council’s waste rules first.

One Man’s Leftover Is Another Shed’s Treasure

If the paint is still in good nick — and you just don’t need it — drop it to a community group, donate it to a local men’s shed or art program, or ask around. You’d be surprised how many weekend warriors need just a splash for a cubby, gate, or birdhouse job.

Few Things to Remember

Never mix leftover paints together – they might react or become unusable
Always open lids outdoors – aged paint can release fumes
Keep out of reach of kids and pets – even “non-toxic” paint isn’t snack-safe

Does It All Feel a Bit Much?

It’s messy, literally. But learning how to properly wrap up a paint project is part of what makes you not just handy, but dependable. The kind of person others ask for help. That’s something to feel good about.

And if you're ever unsure? Our team is here for the questions, the “does this tin still look alright?” moments, and the “what’s this weird goo?” mysteries.

Take care of your tools. Empty your trays. Handle your waste right. Paint’s meant to go on your walls, not down your pipes.

Cheers for reading,
Candeece