Oil-based paints and related materials are considered hazardous materials and cannot be disposed of down the drain or in the regular household trash.  Proper disposition of paints, stains and varnishes as well as related chemicals such as pain thinner and turpentine, depends upon a number of factors  They include:

• Paint type
  Whether the paint is latex or oil-based
• Age and  condition
  Whether the can has been opened and how old the paint is

Oil Based Paints, Stains and Varnishes

Mercer County Improvement Authority
The MCIA accepts oil based paints, paint thinner, and stains and varnishes at their Hazardous Waste Disposal Days that are held three times each year.   Drop off is at:
The John T. Dempster Fire School / Bakers Basin
Lawrence Station Rd
Lawrence Twp, NJ 08648
Phone: 609-278-8086

*limited to Mercer County residents | Proof of residency is required.

Check the website for updates and published schedules.

Latex Paint

Latex or water-based paints are not hazardous and need to be properly solidified so that they can be disposed of in your regular trash.   To solidify, remove the lids and leave to air dry.  Or fill the cans with sand or kitty litter prior to placing out for garbage collection. DO NOT RECYCLE.

Source: MCIA | Ewing Twp Recycling Office

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Habitat of Trenton ReStore

If you have an unopened can of paint that was properly stored you can donate it to the ReStore.  Paints, stored right, can possibly last a decade or longer.  The most important thing is to keep it from freezing, whether it’s interior or exterior paint.  This generally means keeping it out of an unheated garage or shed and in the basement instead.   This is a great Reuse option. Check out their donations page for specifics or call for more information.

Location: 106 Ewing St, Trenton, NJ 08638
Phone: 609-393-8009
Hours: Drop off Wed – Sat, 9am – 4pm
Details: If you cannot deliver yourself, please contact the donation hotline at restore@habitatta.org or call 609-218-6863 to schedule a donation pickup.