Best ways to dispose of latex paint (best → last resort)
Drop-offBest option
PaintCare drop-off sites (many paint & hardware stores like Sherwin-Williams and Dunn-Edwards) take leftover latex and oil paint free in participating states.
Dry-and-trashSmall amounts of LATEX only
Stir in cat litter or a paint hardener until fully solid, then the dried solid can go in the regular trash where local rules allow.
How to prepare it
For dry-and-trash: mix with hardener or cat litter and leave the lid off until solid.
Keep the label on so the color/type is identifiable.
Don't
Never pour paint down a drain or storm drain.
Never put liquid paint in the trash.
Find a drop-off near you
Acceptance varies by city — always check your local program first.
Drop-off (best option): PaintCare drop-off sites (many paint & hardware stores like Sherwin-Williams and Dunn-Edwards) take leftover latex and oil paint free in participating states.
Can you put latex paint in the trash?
In many areas yes — but recycling or a drop-off is better. Check your local program.
Where can I recycle latex paint near me?
Search a drop-off with the Earth911 locator or "paint recycling drop-off (PaintCare) near me." Acceptance varies by city, so confirm with your local program.