Patching and Plastering - Old joint compound

I have some 2 year old pre-mixed joint compound and need to do one more skim coat on the back splash of my kitchen. some liquid had come to the surface, but mixed back in. Can I use it, or should I buy a new container?

If she mixed up fine, you are good to go. I like a bit thinner mix for my final coat so it will feather out better. If the feather isn't sticking, sometimes the drywall pulls the moisture out of it, I run a quick coat past where the feather will end, and then remove it. That will deposit a bit of moisture and a very thin residual layer of compound. Then the feather will lay down nicely. It takes longer to say it than do it.

Bud

Does the stuff smell OK or does it have a four rotten egg odor? If it stinks throw it out. It might still work I don't know but is it worth the risk?

No odor. Since it's been a couple years since I started this project, how should I prepare the surface for the final coat? wipe it with a damp cloth?

I used some 10 year old mud, it was fine as I always pour 3" of water over it if in a bucket and it doesn't overflow. I had wiped the slag off the inside bucket sides before stored.Talk about thrifty- cheap! I'd wipe the area with water and a drop of dishwashing liquid. Final smooth the new mud with a wet sponge, especially when tieing into old work. Be safe, G

If it mixes up fine - it's ok to use but if there is any mold in the bucklet...... it might be better to throw it out....... j/c isn't all that expensive.

Thanks for all the help. I decided to err on the side of caution and got new compound. But if I have any left over, I will cover the left over compound with water.