Storing Paint Properly

Paint Storage

To store usable paint for longer periods of time, you need to keep air from getting into the can. Here’s a few tips on how to store paint in an air tight container.

• Use a rag, not a paint brush, and clean all the paint out of the sealing rim of the can, as well was the lid rim, in order to obtain a tight seal.
• Use a plastic gasket to cover the cover the opening of the paint can. You can accomplish this with a piece of kitchen plastic wrap, cover the paint can opening, and wrap it over the edges. this creates a gasket , once the lip is applied, sealing the opening tightly.
• Avoid hitting the lid with a hammer when you apply the lid. Using a hammer can deform the sealing rim and allow air to come in. Instead, use a rubber mallet with a light touch — just enough to ensure that no air can get in.
• Store the can upside down. As the paint ages it will create a film at the upper part of the can, which will be the bottom when you go to use the paint later.

Do not allow paint to freeze or store paint near heat.  By sealing paint in a properly sealed container, air tight and away from excessive temperature swings you will ensure a prolong the life of your leftover paint and save money in return.

Storing Paint To Last Video

Disposing of Left Over Paint

There are a number of things you can do with extra, leftover paint or paint you’d like to discard.  Four of them are:

1. Use it up
2. Donate
3. Bring it to a municipal paint collection program
4. Dry it, and dispose in trash

If you  would like to learn how to dispose of paint safely, or how to accelerate paint drying of larger quantities of paint quickly, check out this article: How To Safely Dispose of Latex Paint