It's easy to accumulate paint cans in garages, basements, and utility rooms—sometimes even from previous homeowners. If you need to clear out old paint while staying organized, here's how to do it.
When to Keep Leftover Paint
Like cardboard boxes, paint often gets saved with the thought, "I might use this again." If you're someone who regularly touches up paint within a year or two, it's wise to label your cans clearly with a sharpie (e.g., "2nd-floor office walls" or "guest bathroom ceiling"). However, don't keep paint for longer than a year or two, and be mindful of storage conditions. Paint should never freeze, as freezing changes its structure, making it unusable for future projects. Garages are not ideal unless they are heated year-round. Also, make sure the lids are tightly closed.
If you think you won't be doing touch-ups soon, keep a record instead. Open a file to document the paint brand, product line, color name and number (or custom formula), finish, and where it was used. For example:
Benjamin Moore, Regal Select, Grand Rapids 835, matte, powder room walls.
Keep this file updated after each paint job. Here is a printable template for a paint inventory file, or you can create your own.
How to Dispose of Old Paint
If you've already accumulated paint or inherited a stash, here are some disposal options:
1. Curbside Pickup: Many towns accept dried-out paint cans with regular garbage pickup or bulk collection. To harden paint, use non-clumping, clay-based kitty litter or a paint hardener from a paint store. Kitty litter is often cheaper and works just as well.
2. Paint Store Drop-Offs Paint stores now charge a recovery fee when you buy paint, which means many will also take old paint off your hands. Call ahead to check availability—some stores only accept a few cans at a time or are at capacity. Most Sherwin-Williams locations participate, along with True Value, Ace Hardware, and other retailers, through the PaintCare program. Find a drop-off location here. Remember, the paint must be liquid, not hardened or clumped.
3. Community Paint Recovery Events Occasionally, towns and organizations host paint recovery events. Look for local announcements about opportunities to safely dispose of your old paint.
I hope this guide helps you manage old paint effectively, keep your home and storage spaces free from unnecessary clutter, and maintain a clear record of paint colors throughout your house.
We're happy to offer you a free estimate for your next painting project.
Call us at 914-844-7802 or book your free estimate through our website today!
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