Paint residues

Paint residues and other chemicals do not belong in the toilet, sink, or street drain. They are very harmful. Purifying them from sewage water is very expensive and laborious. Substances can also end up in surface water, posing a threat to plants and animals. Dispose of paint residues and other harmful substances separately in the residual waste, the chemical waste collection vehicle, or the recycling center. A large proportion of (harmful) substances can be reused, which is why it is important to separate them properly. Substances that are not suitable for reuse are incinerated or landfilled under special conditions so that they do not harm the environment.

Costs

There is no charge for disposing of small chemical waste.

Water quality

Paint residues and other chemicals can end up in surface water via the sewer system, where they pose a threat to humans, animals, and (aquatic) nature.

What to do with paint residues, accessories, and other chemicals?

  • Rinse brushes in a small container, including brushes that are rinsed with turpentine. The turpentine can be reused. After a few weeks, the paint residue will sink to the bottom, leaving a clean solution that can be reused. If the turpentine is no longer used, take it to the recycling center or chemical waste collection point (small chemical waste).
  • Paint lasts longest in a sealed can or bucket. If paint is no longer being used, seal the can tightly or give it to someone else who can use it. In all other cases, all paint residues, including water-based paint, must be taken to the recycling center or chemical waste collection point.
  • Only completely empty containers of small chemical waste (e.g., bottles of turpentine or empty paint cans) may be disposed of with the residual waste. They may not be disposed of with the plastic waste or cans, but they do not need to be disposed of as small chemical waste either.