To remove paint from clothes effectively, follow these general steps and tailor them based on the type of paint:
General Steps for Removing Paint from Clothes
- Act Quickly
- For fresh paint, immediately blot (do not rub) the excess paint with a clean cloth or paper towel to avoid spreading the stain.
- Rinse the stained area under cold water to dilute and remove as much paint as possible
- Remove Excess Paint
- If the paint has dried, gently scrape off the excess using a dull knife or credit card to avoid damaging the fabric
- Pre-Treat the Stain
- Apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Soak the garment in a solution of detergent and water for about an hour to loosen the paint
- Wash the Garment
- Wash the clothing at the hottest temperature safe for the fabric, following care label instructions.
- Avoid drying the garment until the stain is fully removed, as heat can set the stain permanently
Specific Tips Based on Paint Type
- Water-Based or Latex Paint
- Use dish soap, rubbing alcohol, or white vinegar to break down the paint. Apply to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot and rinse
* Liquid detergent and soaking can also be effective
- Acrylic Paint
- For fresh stains, scrape off excess, rinse with warm water, and apply dish soap, rubbing gently.
- For dried stains, use nail polish remover (acetone), hairspray, or denatured alcohol applied with a cotton ball to dissolve paint, then wash thoroughly
* A paste of baking soda, dish soap, and rubbing alcohol can help remove stubborn stains
- Oil-Based Paint
- Use stronger solvents like mineral spirits, acetone, or paint thinner cautiously. Always test on a hidden fabric area first to avoid damage
* After solvent treatment, wash normally
Additional Tips
- Always test any solvent or stain remover on an inconspicuous part of the fabric first to check for damage or discoloration
- Repeat the treatment process if the stain persists before drying the garment
- Use gentle scraping motions for dried paint to avoid fabric damage
By following these steps and choosing the right solvent for the paint type, you can effectively remove paint stains from clothes without ruining the fabric.
