How to Get Rid of Leftover Household Paint

A list of things you need:

1. Paint
2. Paintbrushes
3. Used cardboard box
4. A phone book

Step-by-step run-through:

1. If you end up with unused paint that is still in good condition, apply another coat.
2. Or use the paint as primer for another paint job.
3. Or save it for touch-up jobs.
4. Paint fences, benches, picnic tables or other weather-beaten surfaces. (Note: Do not use oil paint for surfaces that will come into contact with clothing.)
5. Look in the Yellow Pages for the following groups to whom you can donate extra paint: charities that rehabilitate houses, and theater groups with limited budgets for building sets.
6. If you can't find anyone to take the extra paint, dispose of latex (not oil or enamel) paint by painting a cardboard box until all the paint is gone, allowing the box to dry fully, then discarding it in the regular trash.
7. Oil paint cannot be discarded in the trash. Call your municipal government or fire department non-emergency numberto find out when you can drop the paint off at an official household hazardous-waste disposal event.
8. Seal all cans tightly, clean off excess paint with a disposable rag, and store in a well-ventilated place such as a garage or shed.

A Helpful Green Hint:
Look for low-VOC or no-VOC paint. It's made with fewer or no harmful chemicals.