The Difference between Oil-Based and Water-Based Paint
Before you can dispose of paint it is important to know what type of paint you have. The writing at the back
of the paint tin should indicate whether it contains oil-based (solvent-based) or water-based (acrylic) paint.
If you’re still not sure, read the cleaning instructions. If the instructions direct you to use turpentine, white spirit or brush cleaner to clean brushes or rollers, the paint is oil-based. Water based paint is cleaned with water and a wee bit detergent (washing up liquid).

If the writing is obscured with paint and you're still unsure, try mixing a wee drop of paint with water.
Water-based paint easily mixes with water and becomes thinner whereas oil-based paint separates
from water.

Disposing Of Water-Based Paint
Liquid paint (in a tin) should not be put into your residual bin, in a skip, or poured down a sink. Use the following method when disposing of water-based paints: taken to a landfill

1. Check with your local council to see if they have the facilities to take paint at the local civic amenity site. Click here to see participating local councils.
If you don’t live in a participating local authority area, and have a lot of paint to dispose of,
contact RePaint Scotland who will try and help you. If all else fails:
2. Fill a paper bag or box with cat litter, sand or saw dust.
3. Pour the remaining paint over the absorbent material.
4. Allow to dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from children, pets, and direct heat.
5. Dispose of the solid waste in your residual bin.

For paint residue in the tin, remove the lid and allow to dry completely. Remove the skin and dispose of it in your residual bin. Recycle the tin (at your local civic amenity centre) or at another site if an appropriate recycling project is available in your area.

Storing Leftover Paint
When you are ready to store paint:
1. Clean any dried or moist paint from the threads of the tin and lid.
2. Cover the opening of the tin with clingfilm (or wax paper for oil-based paints). The wrap seals the tin and makes it easier to remove the film that forms after it has been sitting around for a while.
3. Fit the lid securely on the tin and gently tap it with a hammer until it is completely sealed.
4. Turn the paint tin upside down. The paint will naturally form a skin to help seal the paint and keep it fresh.

Paint is flammable. Store it in a climate-controlled area away from heat sources. Tins exposed to extreme heat can expand causing the paint to leak. Also, keep water-based paint from freezing – it can survive a couple of freeze-thaws, but the paint will degrade until it is ruined.

Disposing of Oil-based Paint and Solvents
Oil-based paint and solvents, including spirits, are considered hazardous waste materials. Special precautions and steps must be taken for proper disposal. Never dispose of liquid oil-based paint or solvents in your residual bin and never pour them down the sink. Some communities have special hazardous waste collection programs for liquid paint. Check with your local council to ensure proper disposal. Click here to download our hints and tips leaflet.