Find safe disposal for paint near you

Find a nearby place for paint

Set your location to search close to home. The finder only shows places linked to this item.

How to dispose of paint safely

Pass usable paint to a local reuse scheme. Ask the council how it accepts old or unusable paint before travel.

Possible recycling routes

Reuse shops and centresHousehold hazardous waste servicesHousehold waste recycling centres

Handle paint safely before disposal

• Keep paint in its labelled tin
• Press the lid closed
• Transport tins upright in a tray or box

What must stay out

Keep these items separate and check the site rules before you travel.

• Do not pour paint into drains
• Reuse schemes accept usable paint and set their own limits
• Empty metal tins and part-full tins can need different routes

Types of site to check

These site types can list paint. Each provider sets its own limits and access rules.

• Reuse shops and centres

  Sites that accept usable household items for resale or redistribution. They can be at recycling centres or run as separate community projects.

• Household hazardous waste services

  Council sites and collection services for household materials that can harm people or the environment. You must check the local service before travel.

• Household waste recycling centres

  Council-run sites that accept many types of household recycling and waste. Local rules can cover booking, proof of address, vehicle permits and charges for some DIY waste.

Collection and take-back services

These services may offer another route when a local site does not list the item.

• Find your local council

  GOV.UK sends you to the council that manages household recycling and waste services for your postcode.

• Community RePaint

  A UK network that redistributes usable leftover paint through local schemes.

• Local hazardous waste disposal service

  A GOV.UK postcode service for council help with household chemicals, batteries and other hazardous materials.

Related item guides

• Aerosol cans

  Empty household aerosol cans such as deodorant, air freshener and furniture polish cans.

• Household chemicals

  Unwanted household cleaners, solvents, pesticides, pool chemicals and similar products.

• Metal cans and packaging

  Empty steel and aluminium food tins, drinks cans, clean trays and household metal packaging.

Browse all item guides

Questions about safe paint disposal

Where can I dispose of paint safely?

Enter your postcode in the local finder to search reuse shops and centres and household hazardous waste services and household waste recycling centres near you. Check the provider page before you travel because item lists and access rules can change.

How should I handle paint before disposal?

Pass usable paint to a local reuse scheme. Ask the council how it accepts old or unusable paint before travel.