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Can you recycle empty paint cans?
It depends on your area
Whether you can recycle empty paint cans depends on your local program. Here’s how to tell and what to do.
| Goes in | Curbside if dry, else HHW |
|---|---|
| Category | 🥫 Metal & Cans |
| Verdict | Depends |
How to prepare empty paint cans
Recycle fully dried, empty metal cans.
Quick checklist before you bin it
- Recycle fully dried, empty metal cans.
- Confirm acceptance on your city or hauler’s recycling list — rules vary.
- Can’t recycle it locally? Take leftover paint to household hazardous waste.
Why?
Wet leftover paint is hazardous waste, not curbside material.
Better option
Take leftover paint to household hazardous waste.
FAQ: Empty paint cans
Can I put empty paint cans in the curbside recycling bin?
Whether you can recycle empty paint cans depends on your local program. Here’s how to tell and what to do.
How should I dispose of empty paint cans?
Curbside if dry, else HHW. Recycle fully dried, empty metal cans.
Why isn’t empty paint cans recyclable?
Wet leftover paint is hazardous waste, not curbside material.
What can I do with empty paint cans instead?
Take leftover paint to household hazardous waste.