After a decorating project, most people end up with half-used tins of paint they'll never touch again. Disposing of paint isn't as simple as tipping it down the sink — and doing so can cause serious problems for Glasgow's water treatment system.
Water-Based (Emulsion) Paint
This is the most common type for interior walls and ceilings. Small amounts can be left to dry out in the tin with the lid off, then put in your general waste bin. For larger quantities, pour it onto newspaper or cardboard, let it dry, then bin it. Never pour liquid paint into any bin.
Oil-Based (Gloss) Paint
Oil-based paints are classified as hazardous waste. They cannot go in your household bins or be poured down drains. Take them to a household waste recycling centre — Dawsholm, Polmadie, and Shieldhall all have hazardous waste collection points.
Spray Paint Cans
Empty aerosol cans can go in your blue recycling bin. If they still contain paint, they count as hazardous waste and should go to a recycling centre. Never puncture aerosol cans.
Community Paint Schemes
Several charities in Glasgow accept unused paint for community projects. If you have full or nearly-full tins in good condition, donating is the most environmentally friendly option.
What We Can Help With
If you've got a garage full of old paint tins from years of decorating, we can clear the lot. We sort hazardous and non-hazardous materials and ensure everything goes to the correct facility. It's part of our general waste removal service.
Need help with waste removal?
Send a photo of what needs to go and we'll quote you within minutes. Same-day service available across Glasgow.