|
Re-use thinners. When possible, use turpentine, made from the resin of coniferous trees, in place of paint thinner. Both products can be recycled-allow used turpentine or paint thinner to stand in a closed container until paint and contaminants settle to the bottom. Clear liquid on top can be poured off and re-used.
Avoid cleaning brushes and rollers. For an on-going project, paint brushes and rollers can be saved for up to a week without cleaning. Wrap these tools tightly in plastic bags, squeezing out air, and store away from light. Continue using the tool and wrapping it for up to a week for both latex and oil-based paints.
Dispose of extra paint and solvents responsibly. Useable oil-based and latex paints and solvents can be donated to the Monroe County Recycling Center and re-used locally. If latex paint must be discarded, it can be allowed to dry and legally disposed of with regular trash; oil-based paints and solvents must be treated as hazardous waste. |
