Does A Can Of Paint Expire? Experts Weigh In

Does a can of paint expire? The short answer is yes. “Paint does go bad, but it usually takes years before it becomes unusable,” says C2 Paint President and Technical Specialist Tom Hill. Though we might not think of paint as something that will go bad (like spices that lose their potency overtime and should be replaced), it does have a shelf life. While it's always good to have a little extra paint on hand for touch-ups around the house, it’s important to know if your can of paint is past its prime before splashing your walls or trim with it.

The shelf life of paint can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of paint (oil-based or latex), whether it’s been opened or not, storage conditions, and brand-specific guidelines. Here, experts give insight to how long a can of paint should last and tips on how to extend its shelf life.

How Long Does A Can Of Paint Last? 

A general rule of thumb is that unopened cans of paint will last longer than opened or partially used cans. However, there are a few factors that determine the shelf life of a can of paint—if it has been previously opened or not, what type of paint it is (oil-based vs. water-based), and how it’s stored. Unopened oil-based paint, acrylic paint, and water-based latex paint can be good for up to 10 years when properly stored and approximately 2 years once used.

“Once a paint can is open it’s good for about two years,” says Hill, who also notes there are a few variables to consider including how the paint is stored. “For open cans, how much of the can has been used? The more air space you give the can (i.e. the more paint used), the more area is available for things to go wrong like growing bacteria.” If the can is poorly sealed, thus allowing air in, it will go bad more quickly.

This can also vary according to brand. “We do not have expiration dates on [Sherwin-Williams] paint but we do give it a shelf life of 3 years (most architectural coatings) from the time of manufacturing,” says Sherwin-Williams’ Director of Product Excellence Dennis Fiorilli.

Signs Your Paint Is Expired 

The easiest way to tell your paint is likely past its prime is the consistency, color, and smell. Anything that looks lumpy, gives off a sour smell, has signs of mold, mildew, or rust, or has a thick skin under the lid is a good indicator that your paint is expired. “Lid skinning is much like pudding where the paint gets a thick skin on top or on the lid that is hardened,” says Hill.

Fiorilli notes another sign of expired paint is a "cottage cheese-like consistency" which is the result of previously frozen paint. “As paint gets older, the color can change, the quality or coverage can decrease, and the gloss may fade along with the changing viscosity and odor,” he says.

How To Properly Store Paint

The key to longer-lasting paint is proper storage, avoiding contamination, and an airtight seal. “The most important part to ensure a paint lasts is to properly store the gallon in a climate controlled area to preserve the paint and color,” says Fiorilli. “Major temperature fluctuations can create issues, especially when temperatures go below freezing.” Consider storing paint in a closet or basement and avoiding sheds or garages unless they are temperature controlled (ideally in between 60 and 80°F) to keep paint from freezing.

“Make sure it’s a cool and dry space,” adds Hill. “Paint stored in a hotter environment is more prone to contamination.” Additional storage techniques to consider include an airtight lid, pouring paint into a separate container (like a paint tray) when using, and avoiding dipping brushes directly into the can.

And when you’re ready to use the paint again, Fiorilli suggests aways giving the can a good stirring. “Paint can settle and mixing thoroughly will ensure it's ready to use,” he says.

How To Dispose Of Expired Paint

For expired or unwanted paint, proper disposal is important to avoid pollution. Any dried latex paint can easily be tossed in the trash while oil-based paints, which are considered a hazardous waste, must be disposed of at a waste collection site. You can also check with your local recycling plant for more options and information or donate it. “There are services you can contact that will come and properly recycle it for you,” says Hill, who also suggests donating paint to Habitat for Humanity that is still good, but no longer needed.