How to Clean Paint

What You'll Need

• Rubbing alcohol or paint thinner
• Soap-Man Power Wash Laundry Detergent
• Old toothbrush
• Butter knife
• Clean cloths

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Identify the paint type

   Check the paint can or label. Latex (water-based) and oil-based paints require different removal methods.

2. 2

   For latex paint: scrape and wash

   While wet, rinse under warm water. If dry, scrape off excess with a butter knife, then apply rubbing alcohol and scrub.

3. 3

   For oil-based paint: use solvent

   Apply paint thinner or turpentine to a cloth and blot the stain. Work from the outside in. Rinse with warm soapy water.

4. 4

   Launder normally

   Wash with Power Wash Laundry Detergent. Check the stain before drying -- repeat if needed.

Pro Tips

• TIPWet latex paint washes out with just warm water. Act immediately for the easiest removal.
• TIPHair spray (alcohol-based) works on dried latex paint as a pinch. Spray, let soak, then scrub.
• TIPFor dried oil paint, try rubbing alcohol before resorting to paint thinner, which is harsher on fabric.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XPutting paint-stained clothes in the dryer, which heat-sets the paint permanently.
• XUsing hot water on oil-based paint, which can set it deeper. Start with cold or warm.
• XUsing paint thinner on delicate fabrics, which can dissolve certain synthetic materials.

Frequently Asked Questions