You can reduce leftover paint in future by only buying the amount you need for the job (guidelines on the tin will help you work this out).
You can keep and reuse leftover paint for recoating or patching, or by giving it away.
Water-based (emulsion) or acrylic paint
This type of paint is more environmentally friendly, and usually the preferred choice for most interior walls and ceilings.
You can put small amounts of emulsion or acrylic paint in your household rubbish bin.
The amount you put in your bin must be:
- less than a quarter tin-full
- dry and solid
- double-bagged and disposed in the household rubbish bin
You can also take small amounts of this paint to any Suffolk Recycling Centre and dispose of it in a non-recyclable container.
To help the drying process the paint tin lid should be left off, and sand, dirt, sawdust or clean cat litter can be added.
Please ensure the paint has completely solidified before placing in the bin or taking to the Recycling Centre. You may need to leave it for a couple of weeks before disposal.
Solvent-based paints or large quantities of paint
Solvent-based paint produces a glossy finish, and is often used for woodwork and metals.
This type of paint can not be treated in the same way as water-based paint. It must be disposed of using the hazardous waste collection service.