PB HOW TO

How to remove paint from clothing? The tips!

From painting walls to any other creative use of paint, it enhances aesthetics and gives a good feeling. Unfortunately, this positive mood often fades when you discover paint on your clothing, raising the question of whether you can get it out. Don’t panic - we have the tips to help you out.

Which paint doesn’t come out of clothing?

Tip number 1 before painting or using different types of paint - whether acrylic paint, wall paint, or poster paint - is to wear old clothes or protect your clothing with an overall or apron. When it comes to paint stains, prevention is better than cure. Unfortunately, not all paint stains can be removed from clothing, making quick action crucial.

When removing paint from clothing, it’s important to consider whether the paint stain is still wet or has already dried and whether the paint is water-based or oil-based. A water-based paint stain requires a different - and simpler- approach than an oil-based paint stain.

Is the paint stain still wet?

Gently dab the stain with a clean old cloth or sturdy paper towel to remove excess paint. Be sure to dab rather than rub to avoid spreading the paint and making the stain larger.

How to remove oil-based paint stains from clothing?

Removing oil-based paint stains from clothing? Using turpentine to remove paint is the most logical choice.

For an oil-based paint stain, it’s important not to wet the stain immediately but to remove the clothing item as quickly as possible - if possible. Turn the garment inside out if necessary, apply turpentine to an old cloth, and dab it onto (the inside of) the stain. Rinse the paint stain thoroughly with lukewarm running water afterward, and wash as usual in the washing machine to remove any remaining residue.

Do you have a dried stain with hardened paint? First, try to gently scrape off the top layer, then treat it with turpentine. Instead of scraping, you can also try using tape. Press a piece of tape over the dried paint stain, then remove the tape, which will also lift off the top plastic layer of the paint.

Did the paint get on a very delicate fabric?

First, perform a fabric test on an inconspicuous or hidden spot with a small drop of turpentine to check how the fabric reacts and to ensure the garment's color doesn’t fade.

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How to remove water-based paint stains from clothing?

Removing a water-based paint stain? You’re in luck, as these are the easiest paint stains to remove using simple methods.

Do not wet the water-based paint stain immediately. If possible, remove the clothing item and hold it under lukewarm running water, preferably with the inside of the garment or the back of the stain facing the water.

Take a clean old cloth or sturdy paper towel and gently dab the stain to remove the paint. Then apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly onto the stain and let it soak in. Dab again with a clean old tea towel or sturdy paper towel, and afterward, wash the garment as usual.

How to remove acrylic paint stains from clothing?

Acrylic paint stains are among the most stubborn because acrylic paint tends to penetrate deeply into the fabric. To remove acrylic paint, the best option is to use alcohol, such as rubbing alcohol.

You can also remove acrylic paint from clothing using nail polish remover that contains alcohol. Apply a small amount of the product to a clean cloth or sturdy paper towel and gently dab the paint stain. The paint will loosen and come off. Then wash the item as usual. If the paint has already dried, the stain is often even more persistent, but the above advice is still worth trying.

How to remove poster paint stains from clothing?

Got kids at home? Crafting or painting with poster paint is likely a favorite activity. Poster paint is typically designed for children, making the stains easier to remove. Dab away excess wet paint with a clean cloth or sturdy paper towel. If necessary, pre-treat the stain with a mild detergent or stain remover. Then, place the clothing item in the washing machine and wash as usual.

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Stain removers

Did you immediately wash clothing with a paint stain, but the stain didn’t come out because you didn’t pre-treat it? Treating the stain becomes much harder in this case.


Identify the type of paint that caused the stain and try treating it again using the tips above. It might not hurt to give it another shot - who knows, the old paint stain may still come out or at least become less visible.

*The above tips and steps are recommendations. If in doubt, always consult a professional cleaner. Remember, acting quickly and effectively yields the best results so you can continue enjoying your favorite garment for years to come.

General stain removal tips

1. Check the fabric type and always verify what the item is made of before using strong agents. Delicate fabrics like silk are best treated with a damp cloth.

2. Prevent stains from setting and avoid putting a stained item directly in the washing machine without spot-treating, as the heat can set the stain.

3. Remember: water first. Act quickly by gently dabbing the stain with a lukewarm, damp cloth. Avoid rubbing and allow it to soak if needed. Then, look up how to treat the specific stain.

4. The Stain Remover Brush from Bondi Wash or the Textile Brush from Kinfill can be used in place of a cloth to avoid excess friction. These brushes help lift stains without damaging the fibers.

Note: After spot-treating, wash the garment as you normally would, and always follow the care instructions on the garment label.

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Blog by:

Joyce

Joyce knows everything about different body types. She excels at providing smart styling tips and tricks to highlight your best features. Additionally, she is the go-to person for occasion outfits with that little extra something.