How to Store Your Leftover Paint
Don’t throw away that leftover paint! Saving even a half-gallon from your latest project can make all the difference when it comes to touch-ups or color matching in the future. Whether you’ve worked with a professional painting contractor or taken on the project yourself, it’s always a good idea to keep some extra on hand.
At Ville Painters, we recommend slightly overestimating how much paint you’ll need, so you have spare paint ready for future use. But storing it correctly is essential — otherwise, it may dry out, separate, or go bad before you ever need it. Here are our expert tips for keeping your paint fresh and usable.
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1. Seal Your Paint Properly
Before you close the can, brush a small swatch of the paint on the lid — this way, you’ll know exactly what’s inside without opening it. The most important step is making sure no air can get in. Place the lid back on flush, then gently tap around the rim with a hammer to lock it in place. Avoid pounding too hard, as this can warp the lid and compromise the seal.
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2. Label Clearly and Consistently
Grab some masking tape and a Sharpie and write down where the paint was used. A simple format works best: Room – Surface – Date Purchased (Example: Living Room, Walls, August 2025)
This way, when you’re searching through old cans, you’ll immediately know which paint goes where. Consistent labeling also saves headaches years down the road.
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3. Choose the Right Storage Spot
Paint lasts longer when stored indoors where temperatures remain stable. A closet, basement storage shelf, or indoor utility cabinet is ideal. Garages are often too hot in summer or too cold in winter, which can ruin paint.
If you do store paint in a basement or garage, avoid placing cans directly on concrete floors. Moisture can cause rust, which may ruin the contents. Instead, store cans on shelves or raise them up using old books, milk crates, or wood blocks.
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4. What If You Don’t Need It?
If you find you no longer need the paint, don’t toss it in the trash. There are better options:
· Donate it: Some donation centers or nonprofits accept usable paint.
· Recycle it: Many home improvement and paint stores have recycling programs.
· Dispose of it properly: In Lancaster County, leftover paint is considered hazardous waste if the can isn’t empty. You can drop it off at the Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority’s HHW (Household Hazardous Waste) facility for safe disposal.
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Why Proper Storage Matters
Having extra paint on hand makes it easy to touch up scuffs, chips, or damage without trying to color-match from memory. Even if you hire professionals later, without a labeled can of the original paint, matching the exact finish and shade can be nearly impossible.
At Ville Painters, we not only follow best practices for storing, recycling, and disposing of paint, but we also leave extra paint with our clients whenever possible — because we know how valuable it is for long-term maintenance.
Have questions about paint care or need expert help with your next project? Call us at 717-396-1176 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free on-site consultation.