You can never buy the perfect amount of paint. There's either a smidge leftover, or you've had to buy a whole new tin for the last corner; there is no in-between. But when it comes to preserving the paint for any future touch-ups, experts have urged DIYers to think about storage, because places like the garage and shed are likely to spoil it completely. 

The wrong conditions can make the paint congeal, separate or even dry out, making those leftovers a complete waste of money. Pat Gilham, painting and decorating expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk, explained: "While it may seem logical to keep leftover paint in a shed or garage, storing paint in these locations is a bad idea." As sheds are exposed to extreme cold in the winter and heat in the summer, as well as potential damp which can rust metal paint, the paint is unlikely to stay in a usable condition. The garage isn't ideal either, because it doesn't tend to stay at a consistent temperature.

Fantastic Handyman's home improvement and painting expert, Lucy Fernando, explained further: "Usually, the garage is the place where heat sources, such as water heaters or direct sunlight are present which can negatively affect paint.

"On the other hand, garden sheds can become too cold, especially in the colder months, and it’s highly recommended not to store paint in such unheated areas because it will separate and, when it freezes, it’ll become unusable."

Places with cool and dry conditions, such as under the stairs, a storage cupboard or a utility room could work.

Lucy added that the ideal temperature is typically between 10 and 27 degrees, and the "ideal place" would be a basement, another indoor spot with temperature control and reduced humidity or a dedicated storage cabinet.