Latex paint will be labeled as ‘Latex’ or ‘Water-Based’, or will list water as an ingredient.
Latex paint is water-based, and can be cleaned with soapy water. When it is in solid form, it is not considered hazardous waste. So the best way to dispose of latex paint is by drying it completely, then putting it in the trash.
- If there is only an inch or two of paint left in the can, it can be easily dried by leaving the can uncovered.
- Mix equal parts unused paint and kitty litter together and stir until it is an oatmeal-like consistency. Leave the can uncovered for at least one hour to dry.
- Use a commercial paint hardener such as Homax (sold at most hardware or home improvement stores) and follow product directions.
- For larger quantities of paint, line a plastic tub well with trash bags or plastic sheeting and pour in one- to two-inch-deep layers of paint, allowing the paint to dry one layer at a time.
When leaving paint uncovered to dry, be sure to store it somewhere safe, well ventilated, and out of the way where it won’t spill and children or animals will not be able to reach it.
