How to Store Paint: 3 Tips for Long-Term Paint Storage

When you store leftover paint properly, you can extend the lifetime use of the product. Paint is a relatively expensive building material, so reusing older paint can help you save money on your home improvement budget.

Additionally, it can be challenging to locate a discontinued paint color or remember the paint color name from a previous painting project. However, if you know you have stored paint properly, you will still have leftover paint to use in the future.

Unopened paint can stay viable for fifteen years and a resealed can of paint can last for a decade. These timelines vary depending on the mixture or quality of the brand of paint. Paint storage conditions will also significantly impact the extended lifetime of the product. For example, prolonged exposure to light, moisture, or significant heat could age the paint rapidly.

There is little need to use long-term paint storage techniques if you are using your paint throughout the week. Simply cover your can with the original lid and reseal it with a rubber mallet. You can open the lid with a flathead screwdriver the next time you want to access your paint. If you have misplaced the lid, you can get by for a few days with a layer of plastic wrap over the can or paint tray. Seal the piece of plastic wrap with tape to minimize air exposure.

Consider these paint storage techniques to extend the lifetime of your paint:

• Label your paint container. To avoid the time-consuming task of opening each paint container to verify its contents, clearly label your paint cans—especially if you reuse containers for spare paint. Use a permanent marker to date and label the outside of each paint container with the project name and paint color. Consider dabbing a little paint on the top of a metal can’s lid to help you differentiate between similar shades in the future.
• Choose a proper paint storage area. Find an insulated, dry place in your home that does not receive direct sunlight exposure to ensure your storage area will shield the paint from light and extreme temperatures.
• Use an airtight container. Use airtight glass jars or lidded mason jars to store paint for years. Glass containers are eco-friendly—since you can clean and reuse them when you run out of paint. However, you must take extra care to avoid light exposure. Store the paint jars in a cool, dark place and downsize to a smaller container as you use up the paint.

Discard old paint if you discover any of these warning signs:

1. 1. Foul odor: The growth of bacteria in paint might cause a pungent odor similar to the scent of cat urine, ammonia, or rotten eggs. This is a sign bacteria has infiltrated an air leak around the top of the can. Avoid using a dull paint can opener when opening and closing your paint cans, as this could create an uneven connection around the rim of the can, preventing an airtight seal.
   
2. 2. Mold or mildew: Paint is not viable for future DIY projects if you find visible signs of mold around the edge of the paint can lid. Painting with even a small amount of paint containing mold could lead to further spread in your home. Wear a ventilator and eye protection if you are using a paint sprayer on your exterior painting project since a sprayer can disperse harmful bacteria into the air much easier than a paintbrush.
   
3. 3. Rough finish: Test a small section of old paint and let it dry before you use it to complete your next house painting project. If the new coat does not mirror the sheen and finish of your previous paint job, refrain from using it to touch up paint on walls; otherwise, you will see drastic discoloration or a faded finish on what should be high-gloss acrylic and latex paint mixtures.

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