How To Clean Paint Brushes On Septic

It's a joy to live in the state, isn't it? Um, except when you've only completed a painting project and it's time for clean up.

Because the delicate residue of biological elements in your septic tank can be severely upset by paint, cleaning your brushes, rollers and even your easily in the sink is a no-no

Why Can't I Exercise This?

Both latex- and oil-based paints accept chemicals in them that won't interruption down in your septic tank. Those chemicals will also "stress or destroy the biological handling taking identify" in your tank, according to the EPA.

What Could Happen?

Surface and footing water could become contaminated. Not good. Your septic tank could go seriously damaged and need replacement. Besides not good.

What Should I Exercise Instead?

Sometimes it's a toss up. If yous employ disposable paintbrushes and rollers, yous're adding to the landfill. But reusable eco-friendly painting supplies need to be cleaned before beingness used once more.

Possibly you lot could take that stuff to your mom (who lives in the urban center, of course) and have her give it a skilful cleaning.

Or not.

Probably the best, and greenest, method is to cut back on the amount of make clean upward required. Squeeze every last drop from your paintbrush and roller tray. Utilize disposable liners for that tray. Try to become paint on the walls, instead of all over yourself.

The less clean upwardly yous need to practice, the less hassle it is.

You may fifty-fifty need to think twice before repainting. Does it truly need to be washed? Make a determination that's environmentally responsible and still satisfies your redecorating tastes.

Timothy Dahl

Timothy is the founder and editor of Charles & Hudson and sometime editor at Popular Mechanics, This Old Firm, and Lifehacker. His work has been published on Wired, Bob Vila, DIY Network, and The Family Handyman. He is also the founder of the Webby-nominated Built past Kids and host of the popular Tool Crave podcast.