Why the Best Way to Recycle Old Paint is 'Not To'

For most of us, rather than research how to responsibly throw away old paint cans, we tend to store them or throw them out completely. But if not disposed of properly, paint thrown down a drain, into the ground, or into the trash can be toxic and dangerous to the environment.

While the Northfield Township Road District handles a large variety of recycling, including recycling old paint cans, Tim Rueckert, the Township's Highway Commissioner suggests that the best way to get rid of old paint is simply "not to." Instead, he said, use the paint to repaint.

"If you have some paint left at the bottom of the can keep painting. Put up another coat. The more coats of paint you put on, the more durable the paint is," said Rueckert.

When saving paint for future touch-ups, Rueckert adds that "As far as matching a wall painted several years ago, these days, you can take a paint chip to a hardware store, their computer will scan the color, and match it exactly. You don't need to save cans anymore."

Throwing away cans of paint in the trash is recommended only when the paint in the can is completely dry. "If there is still paint in the can, it can harmful to the environment due to the chemicals and toxins within it that can damage both the land and air."

The Northfield Township Road District offers the following suggestions on when to throw out old paint. Remember to let the paint dry out completely before putting it in the trash.

• When it's been around longer than a decade.

• It smells rancid and is hard on the bottom or sides after stirring.

• It looks rubbery or thick.

For information about recycling of paint and other chemicals, please contact The Northfield Township Road District at (847) 725-7055 or email ntroad@northfieldtownship.com.

About the Northfield Township Road District

Located in northern Cook County, Northfield Township represents nearly 78,000 people. Under Highway Commissioner Tim Rueckert's leadership, the Road District provides efficient and economical services for residents in the unincorporated areas of Glenview, Northbrook, and Northfield. Working together in a cooperative and professional manner with neighbors, Cook County, the state of Illinois, and the surrounding villages, problems are identified, and practical, cost-effective solutions are developed utilizing the resources at hand. The Road District is located at 237 Melvin Drive, Northbrook. For more information visit Northfield Township Road District or call 847-724-7055.