Solvents and Paint Thinner

Solvents & Paint Thinner 

We’ve all got a few cans of paint at home – but many homeowners, especially the DIY types, might have a few containers of paint thinner or other paint-related solvents. And just like with paint, they may have outlived their welcome in your garage, basement, or attic. Today, learn what your options for old paint thinner & solvent are, including safe handling, reuse, and disposal at home and at hazardous waste facilities.

Management Options

• If the product is unused, try to give it away to someone who can use it.
• If the product cannot be given away for reuse, and the municipal paint collection program accepts it, take it there.
• Solvents mixed with paint may be reused. First, let solids settle out and pour off liquids for future use as a solvent. Label the container clearly.
• The solids may be disposed of wet at a hazardous household waste collection.
• Alternatively, the solids may be dried out by adding absorbents, such as kitty litter or vermiculite, in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources, such as appliances with a motor or pilot light, and out of reach of children and pets. Dried solids can be disposed of in the trash.
• Small amounts of used or new paint thinner can be added into oil-based paint. Add to the same color paint as that used with the thinner.
• If the thinner or solvent cannot be reused through the above options, take it to a Household Hazardous Products Collection Center.

For information on specific solvents used in cleaning, refer to our page on cleaning chemicals.