Latex and water-based paints, stains, and sealants are not considered hazardous waste and may be disposed of with regular trash once dried out or hardened. To dry out a can less than a quarter full, remove the lid and leave it in a well-ventilated place for a few days. Fuller containers can be dried quicker by adding mulch, kitty litter, shredded paper, or a paint hardener from the hardware store. Follow the directions carefully for the paint hardener. Some municipalities/haulers prefer the paint cans to be separated from other garbage; contact your hauler to verify their requirements. You can place the cans beside or on top of the trash container with the lid off so the trash collector can see that they’re empty or dried out. Latex and water-based paints, stains, and sealants are not accepted at County Household Hazardous Waste Collection events as these items are not considered hazardous waste. Some paint retailers will take back used paint, call ahead to verify. Water-based items can be distinguished from oil-based ones by cleaning instructions that indicate soap and water cleaning. 

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