What is the best way to store rattle can and bottle paints?

[Hotrod 97]

As I mentioned a little while ago, I’m taking a break from the workbench for a bit. I have a decent stash of both rattle can and 1/4-1/2 oz bottle paints that I want to hold on to until I start building again. Some of them have never been used. What would be the best way to store them until I’m ready to use them again? 

TIA

[iBorg]

I would store them in a cool dry, climate controlled area. Excess heat and humidity would work against you. Don't store in an attic or unheated or hot garage.

[Pete J.]

I have been storing rattle cans upside down for years now.  Here is my logic.  Then the cans sit upright, the solids settle out and surround the dip tube( the tube that brings the paint to nozzle).  Those solids will get more compact over time.  They will also accumulate in the bottom of the tube.  When you go to use them again, you can shake the cans for days and never clear those solids from the dip tube.  First spray and they will likely clog the nozzle.   Never had any problems with cans stored this way and I have Tamiya rattle cans that are well over 10 year old. 

[NOBLNG]

You likely know any that have been used should be turned upside down and sprayed till propellant comes out in order to clear the tube Of paint. Then I would store them on their side or upside down.

[slusher]

I have my rattle cans in a small to medium plastic tote I picked up at Walmart just in case of leaks and they are stored in the house.

[SCRWDRVR]

I have all my paints stored on a shelf in my basement, temps stay pretty even there all year round. I leave mine up right although I know that's not the best practice but the only paint I've ever had an issue with over a long period of time is testors.....

[espo]

Many good solutions for story the spray cans. I would add that the bottled paint also need some extra precautions for long time storage. The main thing is to story them as air tight as possible   I suggest opening every bottle, one at a time, and clean the caps threads and the same for the container. Be sure that the seal between the top of the container and the cap are clear of any paint residue that would compromise their air tight seal. With that I would store them much like the spray cans but in an upright position. When the time comes to put them back into service the pigment will have settled to the bottom just like the spray cans, but if you stir the pigment before shaking the container everything should be fine.

[Pete J.]

Depending on how long you store the bottled paints, I would get them out every year of so and add some thinner to them.  Oh and for the acrylics, use either the manufacturer thinner or 91% alcohol not water.  Also add a beer in the operator while doing so to relieve the tedium. ?

[porschercr]

27 minutes ago, Pete J. said:

... Also add a beer in the operator while doing so to relieve the tedium. ?

?

Edited June 13, 2020 by porschercr