Tips - How to store left over paint

Tip

You may choose to keep a small amount of paint for touch ups or small projects. Leftover paint can last for years, if it is well-sealed and stored in a appropriate location.  Here are a few tips to help:

  • Cover the opening of the paint can with a plastic wrap before closing the lid.  This will help create an additional seal when the can is closed.
  • Use a mallet to close paint can for a better seal.  Hammers can dent and bend the rim of the paint can; mallets are gentler.  Use a small towel over the lid to help impact.
  • Store the paint can upside down to prevent air from drying out the paint.  Some local programs discourage this practice because if the paint goes bad, it may make the lid difficult to open.
  • Store paint away from extreme heat and cold to avoid unusable spoiled paint. Avoid fluctuating temperatures, especially storage near furnaces and direct sunlight.  Store in a cool, dry area.
  • Write on the lid of each can for future identification:
  • Date Opened
  • Colour
  • Batch
  • Type
  • Room it is for
  • Leave the original label on the paint can.  This way you will know what type/colour of paint is inside for disposal purposes.
  • Keep contaminates out of paint cans.  Pretty much anything will contaminate your paint, making it difficult to donate or dispose of properly

Store paint in a safe location.  It should be out of reach of children and pets.

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