How to Store Paint in Metal Cans so it Lasts Almost Indefinitely

No matter how well you plan, anytime you buy paint for a project at your home, you’re going to end up with at least a partial can left. And that’s a good thing, especially when you buy paint to redecorate one or more rooms. Because it’s always handy to have some extra paint to cover up the inevitable scratches and nicks that happen from wear and tear. A little extra paint is also necessary to cover up bare walls after minor construction/demolition work (examples- removal of a built-in bookcase or any other units that were attached permanently to a wall.) Yet if the extra paint dries up prematurely, then it’s of no use to you anyway. Read this instructive article and learn some valuable tips on how to use and store paint in metal cans so it lasts almost indefinitely!

1. Opening the Lid on a Metal Paint Can
The first tip is opening the metal paint can the first time and every time thereafter. If you use a flathead screwdriver or another tool to pry the lid open, it can become bent out of shape or otherwise distorted. A damaged lid won’t keep air out of the paint, and it will dry up quickly. I always use a paint can opener. It looks like an old-fashioned bottle cap opener except it has a curled hook on the end. If you buy enough gallons of paint, stores will just give you one of these handy tools.

The hook on the paint can opener easily fits underneath the rim of the lid. Lift up one section, then move it around the can a few inches and lift up again. Repeat this step until the metal lid is completely removed.

2. Caring for the Metal Can While You Paint
I was always taught to dip a paint brush in the can, then wipe any excess off on the rim. However, that’s not a good idea. This works well while you’re doing a task, but it causes a problem later when you want to store the paint. Having paint in the rim of the metal can- and often does- block the lid from sealing airtight.

To use paint in a metal can so it lasts almost indefinitely, don’t wipe an over-loaded brush on the rim of the paint can, I use a wooden paint stick that I have laid across the open top of the metal can. I wipe off any excess paint towards the middle of the stick so it doesn’t touch the rim. That, and the paint just drips off the wood and back into the metal paint can.

3. Sealing the Lid on a Metal Paint Can
Another tip that will help keep paint from drying out prematurely is, to stretch out a piece of plastic wrap across the top of the can. Make sure the plastic is large enough so the edges hang down an inch or so beyond the metal rim. Then, carefully place the lid over the plastic and press it down firmly with you hands.

To seal the metal lid completely without damaging it, use a rubber mallet to close it. Make sure the entire rim of the lid is forced down into the rim of the paint can. This way, no air can enter into the can and dry the paint up prematurely.

If you don’t have a rubber mallet, you can place a block of wood across the top of the metal paint can lid. Then, carefully tap the wood above the rim all the way around so it seals properly.

4. Storing Paint in Metal Cans
To store paint in metal cans so it lasts almost indefinitely, place it in a cool, dry location where it’s out of direct sunlight and away from direct heat sources.