Spray paints are sealed paint systems. This prevents the paint drying up and means we can guarantee a shelf life of 10 years. Experience shows, however, that paint sprays can still work perfectly as much as 15-20 years after manufacture! The key to a long shelf life is correct storage. edding 5200 Permanent Sprays have self-cleaning valves to prevent the sprayheads from clogging. To be absolutely sure, however, just turn the can upside down and depress the sprayhead for 2-3 seconds. That way, only gas is discharged, and this clears the valve of any residues of active ingredients (i.e. paint residues).