Tip #39: Can unused latex paint be repurposed?
Latex paint that is liquid, in its original cans with readable labels, and less than 5 years old can often be repurposed.
Recolor Paints in Hanover takes latex paints and a few other items. Fees apply. Information at https://recolorpaints.com/what-do-we-accept/ or call 1-800-RECOLOR.
ReStore of Leominster accepts full cans of unused latex paint. There can be no rust on the can. See their paint donation guidelines here: www.restorencm.org/donate/donation-guidelines/ or call 978-227-5556.
If your latex (water-based) paint does not meet the above requirements, dry it out with a commercial paint hardener (available at most hardware stores), kitty litter, sawdust, or shredded paper. Once the paint is no longer liquid, it can be disposed of with your household trash.
This recycling tip is brought to you by the Transfer Station Committee.
Editor’s Note: To gain entry to Harvard’s Transfer Station and empty trash, residents must purchase an $80 sticker. The sticker entitles its holder to dispose of recyclable glass, paper, metal, plastic, textiles, and books at no charge. But residents must purchase specially marked bags to dispose of nonrecyclable materials. These are available at the Harvard General Store, Harvard Outdoor Power Equipment, Westward Orchards (June through December), Bolton Orchards in Bolton, Moore’s in Ayer, and Shop ’n Save in Ayer. The Press publishes these weekly tips to help readers reduce the volume of their trash, while increasing the volume they recycle.
