Do you know your Art Supplies?

By: West Central Iowa Solid Waste Date: July 30, 2024

As summer begins to wind down and students prepare to go back to class, Carroll County Solid Waste wants your back-to-school shopping to run smoothly. While you’re out and about, take time to look at your school supply labels.

Paints

Latex, Acrylic, Watercolor, and Tempura are common types of paints used in school art rooms. These paints are safe to dispose of in the trash as long as their containers are dried out. Here are a few things to remember about paint disposal.

• For small amounts of paint, take the cap off the container and let the contents dry up.
• For large amounts of paint, add kitty litter, sawdust, or floor dry to the container and allow the contents to absorb into these materials. You may also pour the paint out onto old newspapers and layer to dry.
• Always make sure paint containers are empty and dry prior to disposing them in the trash.

Oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes should never be disposed of in your trash. These products are considered hazardous and should be brought to the recycling center’s hazardous waste drop-off site.

 

Crayons

In today’s market, many crayon companies are making the change from classic paraffin wax-based products to naturally based products like soy and beeswax. Be on the lookout for these newer products as they are less toxic to students than those made with traditional methods.

 

Markers

• Pay attention to markers designated for school arts and crafts. Those labeled non-toxic are safer for school-aged students because they are water-based and clean up easily.
• Permanent ink markers are alcohol based and emit a chemical smell that can be hazardous to students if used inappropriately.