Recent statistics reveal that, across the country, Americans are projected to spend $477 billion a year on home improvement projects, with money going to everything from kitchen renovations to bathroom remodels, patio additions—and gallons and gallons of paint.
New York is one of the nation’s leaders in money spent on renovations; and when it comes to paint purchased, its numbers are significant, too. In 2024, consumers across the Empire State purchased 24.4 million gallons of paint, and it is estimated that about 10 percent of that household paint goes unused. That’s 2.4 million gallons of various colors of paint, left untouched amid the many projects happening throughout the state’s communities.
That’s where we come in.
Since our arrival in New York in 2022, PaintCare—a nonprofit that operates in U.S. states with paint stewardship laws—has invited households, schools, and businesses to recycle leftover paint, stain, and varnish conveniently and sustainably at established drop-off spots across the state. Now, more than 370 hardware and paint retail stores and government facilities are partnering with us to serve as paint drop-off sites and are championing community responsibility with every gallon of unused paint. Thanks to their work, we have collected more than two million gallons of leftover household paint, stain, and varnish, and have ensured that these products are reused, recycled into new paint, or disposed of properly to minimize environmental impact.
This is great news for responsible processing of leftover paint. And now that more than 95% of New York residents live within 15 miles of one of these designated drop-off sites, it’s never been more convenient for anyone to join the cause.
So how do you get started?
Step 1: Find a location close to your residence.
These locations are easy to find by visiting our online PaintCare site locator here or by calling our hotline number at (855) PAINT09.
Step 2: Identify what kind of paint product you have, and whether it’s accepted for recycling.
Most PaintCare sites accept both latex and oil-based architectural paint products, including paints, stains, sealers, and varnishes; and paint must be dropped off in its original container with its original manufacturer’s label.
(A full list of products accepted by the program is available here.)
Step 3: Determine how much paint you have to recycle. All sites accept up to five (5) gallons of paint from each customer, and some sites may accept more. Those planning to drop off paint are encouraged to call ahead to ensure the site can accept the amount and type of paint they want to recycle and confirm the site’s hours of operation.
Best of all, there is no cost to residents and businesses when dropping off their unwanted paint for recycling; and those with 100 gallons of paint or more to recycle may request a free pickup at their location. More information and a request form can be found on our large volume pickup website.
Now that you’re ready, start recycling—and add to a cleaner, more sustainable renovation of New York State.