Latex Paint Products Are Not Hazardous!

How do I know if it’s latex (not hazardous)? How do I know if it’s oil / solvent based (hazardous)?
Best way to tell is by reading the label. If the label is missing or unreadable, the product should be brought to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection.

Latex Paint Is Not Hazardous

Easiest way is to check the clean up instructions on label. If you can clean your brush or roller with soap and water, it is typically latex, or water-based and not hazardous. Latex, acrylic, or waterborne paints and water based urethanes or anything which can be cleaned by water is generally regarded as safer and less toxic. Words to look for on label:

Oil And Solvent Based Paints Are Hazardous

Easiest way is to check the clean up instructions on label. If the label says you must use mineral spirits or turpentine to clean your brush or roller, then the product is oil or solvent-based. The word Alkyd on a can is synonymous with oil based paint. Words to look for on label:

Another simple way to tell is to determine its solubility in water. A small amount in a jar or cap mixed with water will show whether it is latex or solvent-based paint. Latex paint readily mixes with water since it is water-based — it becomes thinner as water is added. Solvent-based paint is insoluble in water — so the paint and water separate like vinegar and oil.

Latex Paints: Latex paints are referred to as water-thinned or water-based paints. Their major components are water, pigment and an emulsion resin (latex). Latex paint is not considered hazardous by federal definition or by most state and local regulations, and can be safely handled, if completely dried, with trash collection and disposal.

Solvent-based Paints: Solvent-based paints cover a wide variety of paint products with one defining characteristic: they are thinned with an organic solvent material, the exact type of which depends on the type of paint. These products include alkyd, epoxy, urethane and polyurethane paints. Liquid solvent-based products should be handled as household hazardous waste due to their potential flammability.

Source: Fran De Leo, painter and http://www.paint.org