Disposing of leftover stain and finish
Leftover finish can be household hazardous waste. Here is what EPA and Colorado say.
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Leftovers can be hazardous waste
EPA says it considers some leftover household products "that can catch fire, react, or explode under certain circumstances, or that are corrosive or toxic" household hazardous waste, and that products "such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides" can need special care when you dispose of them.
Not in the garbage can
EPA's VOC page says: "Do not simply toss these unwanted products in the garbage can." It says to find out whether your community sponsors days for the collection of toxic household wastes.
Collection
EPA says many communities have collection programs for household hazardous waste. Colorado's health department says taking unwanted household chemicals to a household hazardous waste collection event or facility "is always the preferred option."
Never combine leftovers
EPA says: "When leftovers remain, never mix HHW with other products."
Used rags
Massachusetts' Department of Fire Services says: "The oils in some paints, stains, and varnishes release heat as they dry. If oily rags and applicators are left in a pile, a box, or the trash, the heat can remain trapped and cause a fire that quickly spreads to nearby combustibles." Follow the label and your local fire officials.
Your local rules
Follow the label and your local waste and fire officials.
This is general information, not legal or safety advice.
Sources: EPA, Household Hazardous Waste (HHW); EPA, Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality; Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Preparing products found in your garage for disposal; Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (mass.gov), Disposing of oily rags.
FAQ
General information only. Follow every product label and increase ventilation when you finish, as EPA advises. State fire and health agencies warn that rags used with some oil-based stains and finishes can catch fire on their own: never leave them in a pile, and dry and dispose of them as the label and your local fire officials direct. CPSC says to anchor furniture with drawers, doors, and shelves to the wall. In an emergency, call 911.
Next: oily rags
Never leave them in a pile.
