Mid-Ohio Sanitation and Recycling LLC

If the paint has already hardened in the can, take the lid off and throw the dried paint away with your regular trash.

In a well ventilated area, air dry paint away from children and pets.

If the amount of paint is less than one-fourth of the container, the paint should dry in the can with the lid removed in a relatively short amount of time.  Stirring the paint every few days will speed up drying.

If the amount of paint is more than one-fourth of the container, brush the left-over paint on cardboard or newspaper to use it.  Allow the empty can to dry with the lid removed.

For quantities more than one gallon, pour one-half inch layers of paint into a cardboard box lined with plastic.  Allow the paint to dry before the next layer of paint is added.  You can also add absorbent material such as shredded newspaper or kitty litter and allow to dry completely.  Some home improvement stores may sell an inexpensive paint hardener (check your local stores).

Donate useable leftover paint to local community groups, theater groups, schools, churches and others who need or want it.  Your local Habitat for Humainty ReStore also accepts useable paint.  You may even be able to take a tax deduction.

Organize a neighborhood paint exchange.