5 Best Practices for Storing Leftover Paint — Expert Tips from Your Local Painting Company

1. Use Airtight Containers

Proper storage of leftover paint is essential to ensure its longevity and quality for future use. One of the most important practices recommended by any reputable painting company is to use airtight containers. Here’s why airtight containers are crucial:

Prevent Drying Out: Exposure to air can cause paint to dry out and form a thick skin on the surface, making it unusable.

Maintain Consistency: Keeping the paint airtight helps maintain its original consistency, ensuring it applies smoothly the next time you use it.

Avoid Contamination: Sealed containers protect the paint from contaminants such as dust, dirt, and insects, preserving its quality.

Types of Containers Best for Storing Paint

Different containers can be used to store leftover paint effectively. Here are some of the best options recommended by a painting company:

• Original Paint Cans: The original paint cans are usually the best option as they are specifically designed to store paint. Ensure the rim and lid are clean before sealing.
• Mason Jars: For small amounts of leftover paint, mason jars work well. They are airtight and easy to label.
• Plastic Paint Buckets: For larger quantities, plastic paint buckets with airtight lids are a good alternative.
• Vacuum-Sealed Bags: These are ideal for small touch-up amounts and can save space.

Tips on How to Properly Seal Paint Cans

Sealing paint cans properly is crucial to ensure the paint stays fresh. Follow these tips recommended by a painting company to ensure a tight seal:

• Clean the Rim and Lid: Before sealing, make sure the rim and lid are free from any paint residue. Use a clean cloth to wipe them down.
• Use Plastic Wrap: Place a piece of plastic wrap over the opening of the can before putting the lid on. This adds an extra layer of protection against air.
• Hammer the Lid: Use a rubber mallet to gently tap the lid back onto the can. Avoid using a regular hammer as it can damage the lid, preventing a proper seal.
• Store Upside Down: For an extra seal, some painting companies recommend storing the paint upside down. This creates an airtight seal by allowing the paint itself to form a seal around the lid.

2. Label Each Container

Properly labeling your paint containers is an essential step recommended by any reputable painting company to ensure the longevity and usability of your leftover paint. This practice not only helps in keeping your storage organized but also saves you time and effort when you need to reuse the paint.

Information to Include on Labels

When labeling your paint containers, a painting company would suggest including the following details to make sure you have all the necessary information at your fingertips:

• Color Name/Code: Clearly indicate the color name and any specific code used by the manufacturer.
• Date of Purchase: Note the date when the paint was purchased or mixed.
• Room/Area Used In: Specify the room or area where the paint was used to make future touch-ups easier.
• Type of Paint: Mention whether it’s interior or exterior paint, and the finish type (e.g., matte, gloss, semi-gloss).
• Manufacturer and Product Line: Include the manufacturer’s name and the specific product line if applicable.
• Batch Number: If available, the batch number can be useful for matching more paint if needed.

Methods for Labeling

Different methods can be employed to label your paint containers effectively. A painting company might recommend the following options based on what’s most convenient for you:

• Stickers: Use pre-made or custom stickers that you can write on and adhere to the container.
• Tape: Painter’s tape or masking tape can be used as a quick labeling solution. Write the information with a permanent marker.
• Markers: Directly writing on the container with a waterproof marker is also a simple and effective method.