Empty latex paint cans can be placed in regular trash if empty or contents are completely solidified with lids removed to allow trash haulers to verify the can is empty or dry.

Both Johnson County’s Household Hazardous Waste facility in Overland Park and the Olathe HHW facility accept latex paint in any condition – full, empty or hardened.

• If the paint is still usable, it may be redistributed or reblended for reuse.
• Residents can purchase reblended and recycled latex paint at the Johnson County HHW facility by asking staff for details.
• There are no current recycling options for empty latex paint cans that contain solidified or hardened paint. Liquid paint of any kind should never go in the trash and must be taken to the HHW facilities.

How to dry latex paint

1. Add an absorbent material to the leftover latex paint, such as clay-based (non-clumping) kitty litter, sand, sawdust or oil dry.
2. Allow the paint to dry completely.
3. Dispose of the dried material and can with regular household trash.
4. Check with your regular trash service for any specific restrictions.

If you have questions about latex paint disposal, please contact Brandon Hearn, environmental health specialist at the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment at brandon.hearn@jocogov.org or 913-715-6936.