HOW TO GET PAINT STAINS OUT OF CLOTHES

DOES PAINT WASH OUT OF CLOTHES?

Many paints can be washed out of clothes if treated properly and promptly. Water-based paints like latex and acrylic can be easier to remove because they dissolve in water. Oil-based paints may be more challenging and require solvents like turpentine.

WHAT PRODUCTS REMOVE PAINT FROM CLOTHES?

Some products that can help remove paint stains include liquid laundry detergent, dish soap, store-bought stain removers, turpentine (for oil-based paint) and non-acetone nail polish remover. Always be aware that these products may not work on some fabrics, so it’s best to check garment labels and test a small, inconspicuous area before applying these products to an entire area on a garment.

HOW TO REMOVE PAINT FROM CLOTHING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FIRST

Different types of paint will require different removal methods based on what they’re made of. This guide features instructions for removing oil-based and water-based paints, such as acrylic and latex paint. Before you begin treating the stain, do the following: 

• Look on the paint can or container to find out which type of paint you’re working with. 

• Check the clothing’s care tag for any specific fabric requirements like dry cleaning. Only use the following stain removal methods on washable fabrics. 

• Act fast. Don’t let the paint dry or spread before you try to remove it.

Note: Do not put articles in your washer or dryer that have been previously cleaned, washed, soaked or spotted with gasoline, dry-cleaning solvents, or other flammable or explosive substances. Learn more about how to remove gasoline stains and smells in this guide.

HOW TO GET LATEX & ACRYLIC PAINT OUT OF CLOTHES

Latex and acrylic paint are considered water-based and should come out of clothes fairly easily with some spot treatment and a machine wash. Common latex and acrylic paints include interior or exterior home paint, art paint or children’s finger paints.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• A dull knife, spoon or credit card

• Liquid laundry detergent or dish soap

• Clean cloth or sponge

• Store-bought stain removers (optional)

1. GENTLY SCRAPE OFF EXCESS PAINT

Use a dull knife, spoon or old credit card to lift off any excess paint. Gently scrape the surface of the fabric, making sure not to rub or push the paint deeper into the fabric.

2. RINSE STAIN WITH WARM WATER

Turn the garment inside out and rinse the stain from the back to flush the paint from the fabric. This is an important step. Since latex and acrylic are water-based paints, the running water will keep the paint active and make it easier to remove.

3. APPLY A SMALL AMOUNT OF DETERGENT OR DISH SOAP

Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent or dish soap (about 1/8 teaspoon) directly onto the stain. Work the soap into a lather, adding more water if needed, and gently scrub with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse the soap out and continue soaping and rinsing until all the paint and soap has come out.

4. MACHINE WASH AS USUAL

Machine wash the item as usual, using the warmest water recommended on the care tag. If you see some paint remaining, add an appropriate product from your stain-fighting arsenal, like oxygen bleach or laundry detergent containing stain removers. Learn more about choosing hot or cold water for stains.

5. LINE DRY AND CHECK THE STAINED AREA

Line dry the item: Heat from a dryer will set any stain left behind that you can’t see while the fabric is wet. After it’s dry, check if the stain is gone. If the stain remains, repeat the steps above.

HOW DO YOU REMOVE OIL-BASED PAINT FROM CLOTHES?

To remove oil-based paint from clothes:

• Test first: Apply a small amount of turpentine or paint thinner to an inconspicuous area of the garment to check fabric compatibility.

• Blot the stain: Blot the stain from the back using turpentine or paint thinner.

• Rinse: Rinse the stained area with warm water.

• Apply detergent: Rub dishwasher detergent onto the stain.

• Soak overnight: Soak the garment in hot, soapy water overnight.

• Rinse again: Rinse the fabric thoroughly.

• Wash as usual: Launder the item according to its care label.

• Repeat if needed: Reapply stain remover and wash again if the stain persists.
• Avoid the dryer: Do not place the garment in the dryer until the stain is completely gone.

• Reminder: Always rinse turpentine, paint thinner or any flammable substance thoroughly from your garment before placing it in the washer or dryer.

Oil-based paint can be tough to remove, but with the right technique, you may be able to salvage your garments. Remember to check care labels and always spot test the fabric first to help avoid damage.

MUST-KNOW HACKS FOR REMOVING DRIED PAINT FROM CLOTHES

Dried paint stains can be stubborn, but with the right approach, you may be able to restore your clothes. The key is to experiment with different cleaners while being cautious not to damage the fabric.

Follow these must-know tips to help remove dried paint from your clothes, but be sure to check your care labels before you start:

• Scrape off excess paint: Start by gently scraping off any dried paint with a dull knife or scraper. This can help make it easier to treat the remaining stain.

• Spot test cleaners: Before applying any cleaning solution, test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to make sure it doesn’t get damaged or fade.

• Use rubbing alcohol or acetone: If the fabric can tolerate it, apply rubbing alcohol, acetone or non-acetone nail polish remover to the dried paint. Dab the stain with a clean paper towel or white cloth to break down the paint and lift it from the fibers. Be sure to rinse thoroughly, as garments treated with these methods can’t go directly into the washer or dryer.

• Scrub with stain remover: Once the majority of the paint has been removed, try applying a small amount of stain remover to the stain. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the area. Then rinse it clean by hand.

• Wash and repeat if necessary: Wash the garment as usual and check to see if the stain is gone. If any paint remains, repeat the process before drying the clothing.