Make sure you are using the right paint or thinner for your job. Water-based paints are often safer than other paints, but sometimes you'll need to use a different kind of paint for a special job – like painting a car or boat.

Before you start

Before you buy any paint or thinner, get advice from an expert and read the instructions on the product's label to learn how to use it safely.

In general, you should always:

• wear gloves and long clothes to stop paint getting on your skin
• keep a window open if you are working inside to make sure you are breathing fresh air
• keep children or pets well away while you are working – they may get paint on them that could make them sick
• only put enough paint in your tray to get the job done: this will save you wasting expensive paint and make it easier to clean up later.

When you are finished

Cleaning up

Get advice from your paint supplier about the best way to clean up when you are done.

• First, use old rags or newspaper to clean as much paint as possible from your gear. Let the dirty rags or newspaper dry overnight, then carefully put them in with your household rubbish to be thrown away.
• Never wash paint down the drain.
• If you are soaking bushes or other painting equipment in turpentine, make sure you do this somewhere children can’t get to.

Getting rid of unused paint

Often when you finish a painting project, you can have paint left over that you want to get rid of.

• Check the instructions on the paint tin label to see how you can do this safely.
• Ask at your local paint store to see if it has a paint recycling programme.
• You can also contact your local council to see if there is a recycling centre that takes old paint.

Storing paints and thinners

Paints and thinners can be flammable, and some can make you sick if you swallow them, breath their fumes, or get them on your skin. Keep yourself, others, and the environment safe by storing paints and thinners carefully.

• Store paints and thinners in a secure place that children and pets can’t get to – on a high shelf in a locked shed is a good place.
• Try to limit the amount you keep at home.
• Keep all paint and thinners in their original tins or bottles. It is dangerous to put them in other containers, especially food or drink containers.