How to Dispose of Varnish Remover

Paints and solvents should be removed from access by children.

Paint and varnish remover is also sold as varnish strippers. Those who have purchased these types of removers or strippers may have leftover products sitting on the shelf once finished. Older versions of these products contain hazardous materials that are harmful to human health. It is a good idea to go through your paint supplies to determine what you have and if it should be disposed of immediately.

Instructions

1. Separate your paint and varnish solvents into two groups. If the product was purchased within the last year, sort it into a "keep" group. If the product is older than 1 year, sort it into a disposal group.

2. Examine the contents on each can in your "keep" group. If the product contains benzene, methylene chloride, toluene, cresol or phenol, you should dispose of the product. These chemicals are considered too hazardous to use.

3. Place all the cans and containers that need to be disposed of upright in a cardboard box. If possible, transport the products in the back of a pick-up truck to prevent gasses from entering your automobile.

4. Locate and take the containers to the professional household hazardous waste collection site in your area. Some communities ask you to take the products to a licensed hazardous waste handler. The waste handler will dispose of the products for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Never pour solvents of any kind into the drains of your house or sewer as they can cause life threatening illnesses and poison the water supply for your family and others.

References

• Purdue Education: House Waste