What to do with the paint remaining after the repair

1. Dry and discard

Water based paint is hazardous waste and harmful to the environment if it enters the soil and water bodies. But the dried one can be thrown away like ordinary household waste.

If there is not much paint left, place the open can in the sun - everything will dry. If there is so much of it that the process will be long, put inside crumpled newspapers, cat litter, sawdust or some cement. They will absorb water and speed up drying. If there is a lot of residue, buy a special hardener.

In the same way, you can safely get rid of other emulsion paints: acrylic, latex, polyvinyl acetate (PVA). If you still have resin-based building materials (alkyd, oil, enamel), proceed to the next steps.

2. Hand over for processing

If you don't feel like messing around or just feel sorry for throwing it away, give the paint to professionals for reuse. It can be taken at collection points for recyclable materials or hazardous waste. You can check the addresses of such points in your city on a map created by Greenpeace.

3. Give it to someone who will come in handy

Ask friends and acquaintances if they are just going to repaint the wardrobe or refresh the color of the walls in the interior. Look for local charities or movements that need paint, such as Tom Sawyer Fest. Or place an ad on websites and in thematic publics marked "I will give it for free."

4. Postpone until next time

If the can is tightly closed, water-based and oil-based paints can be stored for several years. It might make sense to leave some margin in case your child draws on the walls or furniture scratches on the floor.

Clean the edges of the lid and the can itself from paint, otherwise it will dry out and then it will not be easy to open the container. For a better seal, place a plastic film under the lid. Mark the jar with the opening date. Store paint in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heating appliances.