Monticello, NY – The Sullivan County Department of Solid Waste and Recycling wants to remind residents and businesses that unwanted latex paint should be managed properly before throwing it away.
Here are a few important reminders about latex paint disposal:
• Purchase only what you need and use it up. Remember that the shelf life for latex paint is typically less than 10 years.
• For small leftover amounts, take the lid off and allow to dry solid for at least 24 hours.
• For larger leftover amounts, mix ½ and ½ with kitty litter, then let solidify for at least 1 hour.
• Recycle empty metal cans at any Sullivan County transfer station; dispose of plastic cans or cans containing solidified paint with your regular trash.
• Keep all chemicals and paint away from children and pets.
• Bring oil-based paints, thinners, and other hazardous chemicals to one of our annual Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection days. Latex paint is not accepted at the HHW collection events!
“It just makes good sense to use up the paint you buy first before throwing any of it away,” advises District 7 Legislator and Public Works Committee Chairman Joe Perrello. “Liquids, including latex paint, may not be disposed of at our County Transfer Stations.”
For additional information about latex paint, household hazardous wastes, composting and recycling, please contact Bill Cutler, Recycling Coordinator, at 845-807-0291 in the Sullivan County Department of Solid Waste & Recycling.
