Have you ever pondered what to do after you finish using spray paint cans? Paint containers or cans need to be disposed of rightly. After all, it is our collective responsibility to protect and conserve the environment. But how to dispose of spray paint cans? It is a question only a few are capable of answering. Being concerned citizens, we all need to learn how to do it the right way.
A metal can, plastic bottle, or steel container, whatever it is you have, needs to be disposed of after they are empty.
While an empty paint can be thrown away in the household garbage, a tin that contains a small amount of paint can be hazardous for the environment and is unsafe to throw away. Moreover, the residual product and propellant that remain in some cans even when they appear empty could cause a burst when exposed to the heat. Hence, the spray paint cans ought to be disposed of appropriately.
Concerning safety and protection, let’s explore what we can do to dispose of the item when it possesses no threats.
Getting Rid of Spray Paint Cans
We know that spray painting is the easiest method as compared to brush painting, but it comes with a responsibility. That is to discard the spray paint tins in a proper manner. While you may hear a lot from neighbors, you are advised not to keep your ears on the gossip; instead, read out the instructions below and learn the easy and proper way.
Step 1
We are assuming that you have used the spray paint and completed the project, and now you want to discard it. It’s good to know that you are not just throwing it away in your garbage cans and taking the correct procedure.
The first thing we need to do is to make certain that the paint can is empty. To confirm, we are going to check it. It is suggested that you do the process outside so that if there is any paint left, it does not affect your house in any way.
Set up the workspace by laying down several pieces of scrap paper. It will cover the area, and nothing will get the paint marks.
Step 2
At this step, we are going to empty the cans. Note that it may already look empty to you, but it is suggested that you do this just to be on the safe side. Press the button and point the spray nozzle at the ground.
If you see no paint coming out and it’s not making the hissing sound, it means the can is empty. Or else, you should spray the can until it stops hissing, and the product stops coming out.
Do not try to puncture the spray paint can, as it can turn out to be disastrous.
Step 3
Now, as the spray paint can is empty, you can dispose of it in your regular trash.
What if you don’t want to dispose of spray paint cans in household garbage? Do you have other options? Yes, there are. Search for recycling points in your area, and you can drop them off. You will surely find local recycling programs near you.
In case the can is not empty, and you don’t want to waste the product, it’s good to donate to someone who needs it, and they will use the paint for their projects. Storing paint is another great option.
However, to ensure their disposal or recycling is safe, there are specific guidelines. Curious to know what those are? Let’s explore them out below.
Tips for recycling spray paint cans
- First thing first, it is extremely important to make sure the spray paint tin is empty before you drop them at the recycling station. Even a small quantity of substance left inside can cause serious damage. The easiest method to confirm is to use the spray completely.
- Do not try to squeeze, puncture, or depressurize the spray paint tin If there is any substance left inside, crushing the canister by hand may cause you serious injury.
- When dropping the cans for recycling, you should separate the caps from the can. It is because the can is mostly made of metal, whereas the cap is made of plastic material. It is obvious that both of these materials cannot be recycled using the same method. This is why it is good to separate them before you take them to the recycling station.
- There will be a plastic nozzle as well inside the container, and there might be some other materials attached, such as rubber. You don’t need to remove them all. Don’t put yourself in danger, and the recycler handles what’s inside the spray paint container.
- Do not overbuy the spray paint. In this way, you won’t have any leftover paint, and all the paint you have will be used on the project. Before you buy, determine how much you need and then purchase accordingly.
Conclusion
Spray paint cans should not be kept in your home for a long time. You will see the warning labeled on the cans to keep spray paint away from children, heat, and electrical devices. Considering this, disposing of them is the best option.
While it’s easy to get rid of other types of paints, spray paint cans require you to make sure they are completely empty before you throw them in the garbage.
As now you know how to dispose of spray paint cans, check out if you have any leftover spray paint cans in your home.