How to thoroughly clean discarded paint cans?

I. Preparation before cleaning
1. Safety precautions
Wear gloves, goggles, and a mask to avoid contact with residual paint or inhalation of volatile fumes.
2. Tool selection
Prepare cleaning agents based on the paint type: alcohol or water for water-based paint, kerosene or a specialized thinner for oil-based paint, and acetone for adhesive paint.
II. Cleaning steps
1. Pour out residual paint
Pour out any uncured paint from the can and wrap it in old newspaper to avoid contamination.
2. Soak to soften residual paint
Plastic cans: Soak in hot water or alkaline water until the paint softens, then remove.
Metal cans: Soak in thinner for 30 minutes to dissolve any stubborn paint film.
3. Scrubbing and scraping
Use a stiff-bristled brush or spatula to remove residual paint from the interior. An old toothbrush can be used to remove paint from corners. 4. Rinse and Dry
Rinse thoroughly with clean water until no chemical residue remains. Place inverted in a well-ventilated area to dry.

III. Disposal
Recyclable Cans: Completely clean metal/plastic cans can be placed in the recycling bin.

Hazardous Waste: If any paint residue remains in the can, dispose of it as hazardous waste (red bin).

IV. Precautions
Do not use open flames to prevent explosions caused by solvent vapors.

Entrust the disposal of industrial waste cans to a professional hazardous waste disposal agency.