Water Based Paint 

Step 1
If there is only a small amount of leftover paint in the bottom of the paint can you can let it dry in the can and peel it out later.

If there is a substantial amount of leftover paint, pour excess onto absorbent material such as newspaper, cardboard, kitty litter or sawdust.  Allow it to dry completely and throw away with your regular waste.
 

Step 2
Wash your paint brushes and rollers in a bucket of water. If the brushes need another rinse, use a second bucket of water. Don’t pour out the water in these buckets. Cover them and store somewhere safe away from children and pets. Let them stand overnight.

Step 3
Check the buckets and you’ll find the paint residue has sunk to the bottom with clear water on top. Now pour the top water onto your lawn or open garden area. Repeat step 1 for the residual amount of paint solids in the bottom of each bucket.

Step 4
Steel is 100% recyclable so you can now recycle the empty steel paint can. Most councils recycle steel either through a kerbside collection service or via drop off facilities. Check with your council before putting paint cans in your recycling bin.