Did you know that storm drains flow directly into our local streams, rivers, and lakes? That’s why it’s important to dispose of paint properly and never pour it down a storm drain.

As part of the “On the Road to Clean Water” educational series, the Summit County Surface Water Management District (SWMD) is highlighting proper paint disposal during the month of August. By following a few simple steps, residents can help protect local water quality and keep harmful pollutants out of our waterways.

Latex (water-based) paint can be safely disposed of with your regular curbside trash once it has completely dried. To dry out leftover paint:

• Mix the paint with an absorbent material such as cat litter, sawdust, or shredded newspaper.
• Leave the lid off the container in a well-ventilated area until the paint hardens.
• You can also pour the paint into a disposable container in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding another.
• Once the paint has become completely solid, leave the lid off the can and place it in your regular trash container.

Oil-based paint should never be placed in your regular trash or poured down a drain. Instead, it must be taken to a designated disposal location, such as Summit ReWorks, for proper handling.

Taking a few extra minutes to dispose of paint correctly helps protect our environment and keeps harmful chemicals out of the waterways that our community depends on.

To learn more about proper paint disposal, click here. For additional information about disposing of oil-based paint and other household materials, visit Summit ReWorks or call 330-374-0383.