Where To Dispose Of Old Paint In Chicago
If you're a homeowner or DIY enthusiast in Chicago, you probably have a few cans of old paint lying around. While it's always a good idea to keep some extra paint for touch-ups, you don't want to keep old, unused paint forever. So, what do you do with it? Here are some options for disposing of old paint in Chicago:
City of Chicago Household Chemicals and Computer Recycling Facility
The City of Chicago has a Household Chemicals and Computer Recycling Facility that accepts old paint. This facility is open to Chicago residents only and is located at 1150 N. North Branch Street. They accept latex and oil-based paint, but it must be in its original container with a legible label. You can drop off up to 10 cans of paint per day.
PaintCare Program
The PaintCare Program is a nationwide program that works to recycle leftover paint. In Chicago, there are several participating retailers that accept old paint, including Ace Hardware, True Value, and Sherwin-Williams. You can drop off up to 5 gallons of paint at a time, and there may be a small fee for processing.
Donate to a Community Reuse Center
If your old paint is still usable, consider donating it to a community reuse center. These centers accept donations of building materials, including paint, and then resell them at a low cost to community members. The Rebuilding Exchange is one such center in Chicago that accepts paint donations.
Dispose of It Properly
If you can't find a recycling or reuse option for your old paint, you can dispose of it properly. This means letting it dry out completely before putting it in the trash. You can add an absorbent material like kitty litter to speed up the drying process, but be sure to place it in a well-ventilated area away from children and pets. Once it's dry, you can put it in the regular trash.
Conclusion
When it comes to disposing of old paint in Chicago, there are several options available to you. From recycling to donation to proper disposal, you can ensure that your old paint doesn't end up in a landfill where it can harm the environment. Be sure to follow the guidelines for each option to ensure a safe and effective disposal process.