How to Dry Out Paint
No matter how well you plan your paint job, some unused paint is always left over and needs disposal. If you have an oil-based paint to dispose of, contact your local government for proper disposal methods. If you have leftover latex paint, you have the option of letting it dry out and placing it your regular trash for pickup.
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Instructions
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Small Amount
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1
Remove the lid from the paint can. Check to see if there is 1/4 of the original amount of paint or less left in the can.
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2
Leave the lid off the can. Find a well-ventilated area. Set the can down and leave it to dry.
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3
Check the can three or four days later. Make sure the paint has dried. Place the can on the street with your regular trash. Don't replace the lid. Let the trash collectors see that the paint is dry.
Large Amount
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4
Remove the lid from the can.
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5
Insert an absorbent material such as kitty litter, newspapers or sawdust.
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6
Place in a well-ventilated spot to dry. Wait for the paint to dry. This will probably take longer than with a small amount of paint. Check every two or three days. Place can on the street for pickup when dry.
Alternate Method
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7
Leave the lid on the can.
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8
Punch holes in the lid with a screwdriver. Put the can in a well-ventilated spot and wait two weeks for it to dry.
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9
Remove lid and place can on the street when the paint has dried.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Keep drying paint away from children and pets. Place the paint in a storage shed or locked garage if possible.
References
- Photo Credit Martin Poole/Digital Vision/Getty Images
