What is the paint can used for in TF2?

In the video game "Team Fortress 2" by Valve Software, paint cans are used to change the color of clothing and other wearable items that players use to customize their in-game characters' appearance. There are 29 different colors of paint in the game.

There are two variants of the paint can: single-colored and team-colored. Items treated with team-colored paint change to the player's team color during matches, while single-colored items always maintain that color. Paint cans are consumed with each use. While the painted item can be returned to its original color, the paint can is not returned to the player's inventory.