1. About PaintCare
What is PaintCare?
PaintCare is an industry‑led, national product stewardship scheme for leftover decorative paint and paint packaging in the UK, designed by the British Coatings Federation (BCF) to create a circular economy for paint & paint packaging.
Why is there a PaintCare trial?
The West Midlands regional trial allows PaintCare to collect data on how much paint is returned, how it can be reused, remanufactured, or recycled, and how the process works across retailers and logistics partners.
Where is the PaintCare trial taking place?
The trial is taking place across selected locations in the West Midlands and is aimed at tradespeople & DIY consumers.
How long is the trial for?
We plan to run the trial for a 12-week period.
2. Using the Service
How do I recycle paint?
Bring leftover decorative paint in its original, labelled, non‑leaking container to a PaintCare collection point. Keep lids tightly closed and pack containers upright for transport.
Where can I take leftover paint?
To participating PaintCare retail locations in the trial region. A full site map is available on the website.
Is there a cost to drop off paint?
No. PaintCare drop‑off is free for consumers and trade users.
Do I need to live in the trial region to use PaintCare?
Yes. Only sites included in the West Midlands trial can accept returns during this period.
How much paint can I drop off?
To help ensure safe and efficient handling there are limits as outlined below:
Per visit limit: Maximum 50 litres of packaging (full or empty) per customer, per visit
This total can be made up of any combination of standard container sizes, provided the overall volume does not exceed 50 litres
- Weekly Limit: A maximum of 250 litres may be returned within any seven-day period.
3. Accepted & Non-Accepted Products
What types of paint are accepted?
PaintCare accepts leftover decorative paints including:
- Water‑based paint
- Solvent‑based paint
- Primers
- Stains
- Sealers, varnishes and shellac
You can find a full list of products that are accepted via PaintCare here.
What products are not accepted?
PaintCare does not accept:
- Aerosol paints
- Automotive or marine paints
- Two‑pack/industrial coatings
- Thinners, solvents, resins
- Wood preservatives, deck cleaners, tar/asphalt products
These must be taken to your local hazardous waste facility.
You can find a full list of products that are not accepted via PaintCare here.
Do all retailers take back paint?
No. Participation is voluntary, and not all stores have capacity to be PaintCare sites. Check the PaintCare website for participating locations.
4. Preparing Items for Drop off
How should I prepare my paint for return?
- Keep paint in original, labelled container
- Ensure lids are secure and containers aren’t leaking
- Do not mix paints together in the same tin
- Pack upright in a sturdy box for transport
What do I do with dry paint?
Dried paint (solid, no liquid) can be placed in household waste subject to local rules, but PaintCare sites will also accept it even though recycling options are limited.
What do I do with empty paint cans?
PaintCare accepts empty, original, intact, labelled containers that are not leaking. Some trial partners require cans to be dry with lids off to be considered “empty.”
What if my product isn’t accepted?
You should contact your local waste disposal site for advice on how and where these can be disposed of.
5. What Happens After Drop off
What happens to leftover paint?
Leftover paint and packaging are sorted and sent on for:
- Reuse
- Remanufacturing
- Recycling
- Energy recovery (for unusable paint)
What happens to the empty cans?
Empty cans (metal or plastic) are recycled where facilities exist. Some containers may be remanufactured into new plastics or metals.
6. Reuse, Recycled Paint & Social Impact
Where can I find leftover paint in good condition?
Paint suitable for reuse may be sent to community groups through partners such as Community RePaint or other social enterprises.
Where can I buy recycled‑content or remanufactured paint?
Recycled or remanufactured paint may be available from organisations working with the PaintCare programme.
Can I donate usable paint?
Yes. Donating leftover paint to friends, family, community groups or reuse organisations is encouraged before recycling.
