5 Methods on How to Dispose of Turpenoid Properly

If you want a simple and safe solution for how to dispose of turpenoid, fill the container with turpenoid with either dirt or clay kitty litter (the most popular variety), seal the lid, and then dispose of it with your trash. If you’re looking for ways to responsibly manage hazardous waste from your household, reach out to your local environmental health or solid waste agency – they can provide invaluable assistance in finding the best course of action.

In this post I will cover 5 methods of how to dispose of turpenoid from prevention of use, to recycling it, evaporation method, professional disposal and manufacturer’s advice.

Since having kids I have become more concerned about the environment and the safe disposal of art materials. When I was single I never put much thought into disposing of solvents and used art materials but one question often came up in my mind and that is how to dispose of used Turpenoid, and other solvents. I figured if I was asking this question then perhaps others would be too so decided to put something together on this important topic after doing some of my own research.

Option 1 – Stop using turpenoids and use a non-toxic alternative

First things first, I stopped using turpenoids and went for a less toxic alternative such as Gamsol or switch to Weber Turpenoid Natural (which is also non-toxic) and I think you should too. But I am not expecting you to throw away any turpenoid just because I said so.

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I know that many of you are sitting on a small stockpile of turpenoids and turpentines and it’s important to understand that dumping turpenoid down the drain is not safe, and it can cause harm to both people, and the environment, and it does not help your plumbing system either. So what should you do instead?

Option 2- Re-use or recycle your turpenoid

One option is to reuse your turpenoid. If it’s just dirty and not too saturated with paint, you can strain it through a coffee filter or cheesecloth to remove any solids, and then continue to use it.

The other method is to let the jar sit for a while with the lid on (if you leave it off it will evaporate – see option 5), once the dirty mix of pigments has settled to the bottom you can carefully pour or decanter the clearer turpenoid into a new jar and keep using it. This not only saves you money, but it’s also better for the environment.

You may still need to dispose of the dried pigments via a hazerdous waste disposal site as you do not know whether your pigments still contain toxic metals in them.

Option 3- Dispose of Tupenoid Using Your City’s Waste Management Department

But what if your Turpenoid is too dirty to reuse? The best way to dispose of it is to take it to a hazardous waste facility in your area. These facilities are equipped to handle the safe disposal of all kinds of hazardous waste, including turpenoid. You can search for hazardous waste facilities in your area online or by contacting your local government.

Option 4- Follow your turpenoid label disposal advice or visit the manufacturer’s website

Another method for working out how to dispose of turpenoid is to read your turpenoid label and either follow the disposal advice or visit the manufacturer’s website for specific instructions.

Some brands of turpenoid’s labels tell you its harmful but provide no advice on how to dispose of turpenoid (see the image below).

In that case, if you’re still unsure about how to dispose of your turpenoid, contact a local waste management department or hazardous waste facility for guidance. They can provide you with information on the safe disposal of your product and any other steps you may need to take before disposing of it.

Option 5- Let your Turpenoid evaporate

Another option for how to dispose of turpenoid is to let your turpenoid evaporate in a well-ventilated area. This can take some time, but it’s a safe and eco-friendly way to dispose of it. You can also speed up the process by pouring the turpenoid into a shallow container and placing it outside in a sunny spot, but be sure to keep it away from children and pets.

This was my method for years, I would pour the old turpenoid into a larger jar and leave it sitting on a window sill. After a few weeks, all that would be left at the bottom of the jar was a brown mixture of dried pigments as the turpenoid would have evaporated. As per option 4, you still need to be mindful of the leftover dried pigment mix.

Odorless does not mean non-toxic

Odorless turpenoid does not mean non-toxic, so you still need to be mindful of disposing of it. You should make sure to pour the turpenoid in a safe and responsible manner, not just throwing it onto the ground or down the drain which would affect both human health and the environment.

The same applies to the dried sludge left over at the bottom of the jar.

Are turpenoids and turpentines the same thing?

Turpenoids and turpentines are not exactly the same thing, although they are related.

Turpentines are natural solvents that are obtained from the resin of pine trees. They have been used for centuries in various applications, including painting, cleaning, and medicinal purposes. Turpentines are typically composed of a mixture of hydrocarbons, including alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, and others.

Turpenoids, on the other hand, are synthetic solvents that are designed to mimic the properties of turpentines. They are usually made as a by-product from petroleum or other chemicals, and are used as a substitute for turpentines in various applications, including painting and cleaning. Turpenoids are designed to have similar properties to turpentines, but with less odor and toxicity.

While turpenoids and turpentines have some similarities, they are not identical. Turpenoids are synthetic and are typically less toxic and less flammable than turpentines, while turpentines are natural and have a stronger odor and higher flammability. You will find that most artists don’t know these differences and use the terms interchangeably but my advice is this, dispose of them the same way.

Does water dissolve turpentine?

No, water does not dissolve turpentine so don’t even think of mixing it up with water in the hope of diluting it. In fact, turpentine is what is known as a hydrophobic (water-repelling) substance that is insoluble in water.

Turpentine is a solvent that is commonly used in oil painting to thin paints and clean brushes. It is typically made from the resin of pine trees and has a low boiling point, which allows it to evaporate quickly.

If you need to clean turpentine from a surface or object, it’s best to use a solvent that is compatible with turpentine, such as mineral spirits or a commercial turpentine cleaner. Always follow proper safety precautions when working with solvents, including wearing gloves, working in a well-ventilated area, and avoiding open flames or sparks.

How to dispose of turpentine rags

When disposing of turpentine rags, it’s important to take proper safety precautions to prevent fires and other hazards. Used rages with turpentine or turpenoids are no different to jars filled with the stuff.

Here are some steps I follow:

Lay the turpentine rags flat on a non-flammable surface such as a metal container or a concrete floor.
Allow the rags to fully dry out. This may take several hours, as turpentine is a flammable liquid that needs time to evaporate.
Once the rags are completely dry, place them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. This can be a metal garbage can or a specially designed container for hazardous materials.
Label the container as “flammable” and “hazardous waste” and store it in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Contact your local hazardous waste disposal facility to determine how to properly dispose of the container and its contents. Do not dispose of turpentine rags in regular household trash, as they can pose a fire hazard and harm the environment.

Remember, it’s important to always use caution when working with flammable materials and to follow proper safety guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries.

Handle with Care: How to Properly Dispose of Turpenoid (6 Methods) – Wrap up!

As you have seen, there are several safe and responsible ways to dispose of used turpenoid. Reusing it if possible is the best option, followed by taking it to a hazardous waste facility or letting it evaporate in a well-ventilated area. By taking the time to properly dispose of your art materials, you can help protect the environment and keep yourself and others safe.

I hope you found this article “Handle with Care: How to Dispose of Turpenoid Properly”, helpful, and that it will help you to dispose of your own used turpenoid in a safe and responsible way.

Remember, taking care of the environment is everyone’s responsibility, and every small step we take can make a big difference.