We’ve all been there — one second you’re painting a wall or working on an art project, and the next, there’s a colorful splatter on your favorite shirt. The good news? You can save your clothes. Whether it’s acrylic, latex, or oil-based paint, knowing how to get paint out of clothes quickly and correctly can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best cleaning techniques for every type of paint stain — all using common household items.
Step One: Identify the Type of Paint
Before you grab your detergent, it’s important to figure out what kind of paint caused the stain. The cleaning method depends entirely on the paint type:
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Water-based paints (like acrylic or latex): Easier to remove when wet.
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Oil-based paints: Require stronger cleaners such as turpentine or paint thinner.
Tip: If the paint can is nearby, check the label. It’ll tell you whether it’s water- or oil-based.
How to Remove Water-Based Paint (Acrylic or Latex)
Water-based paints are the easiest to handle, especially if you act fast.
Step 1: Rinse Immediately
Hold the stained area under cold running water to flush out as much wet paint as possible. Avoid hot water — it can set the stain.
Step 2: Apply Liquid Detergent
Rub a few drops of liquid dish soap or laundry detergent directly onto the spot. Work it in gently using your fingers or an old toothbrush.
Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse again.
Step 3: Treat Stubborn Stains with Vinegar or Baking Soda
If the stain persists, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water, or make a paste with baking soda and detergent. Apply, scrub gently, and rinse.
Step 4: Wash as Usual
Finally, launder the clothing according to its care label. Air dry to ensure the stain is fully gone before using a dryer.
How to Remove Oil-Based Paint
Oil-based paint is a little trickier, but with patience (and the right product), you can still save your fabric.
Step 1: Scrape Off Excess Paint
Use a spoon or dull knife to gently lift away as much paint as possible — avoid rubbing it in deeper.
Step 2: Use Paint Thinner or Turpentine
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Place the stained area over a paper towel.
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Dampen a cloth with turpentine, acetone, or paint thinner.
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Blot (don’t rub) the stain until the paint starts to lift.
Be sure to test these products on a hidden area first, as they can discolor some fabrics.
Step 3: Wash with Detergent
Once the majority of the paint is gone, rinse thoroughly and wash with heavy-duty laundry detergent. Air dry and check the spot — repeat if needed.
Removing Dried Paint Stains
If the paint has already dried, don’t panic — it’s still possible to remove it with a bit of elbow grease.
Step 1: Loosen the Paint
Soak the stained area in warm, soapy water for 30–60 minutes.
If it’s an acrylic or latex paint, add a few drops of vinegar to help soften the residue.
Step 2: Scrape Gently
Once softened, scrape away flakes using a blunt knife or old credit card.
Step 3: Treat with Alcohol or Nail Polish Remover
Dab rubbing alcohol or acetone-based nail polish remover on the remaining stain using a cotton ball.
Rinse and launder normally afterward.
Alternative Natural Cleaning Solutions
If you prefer chemical-free options, these natural solutions can also help:
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Lemon juice + salt – Great for light fabrics and small stains.
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Hydrogen peroxide (3%) – Works well for white or color-safe fabrics.
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Baking soda paste – Gently exfoliates dried paint without harming the fibers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning how to get paint out of clothes, here are a few don’ts:
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Don’t use hot water initially — it can set the paint.
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Don’t throw the garment in the dryer before confirming the stain is gone.
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Don’t scrub too hard — it can damage delicate fabrics.
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Don’t mix chemicals like bleach and ammonia — it’s dangerous.
FAQs About Getting Paint Out of Clothes
1. Can vinegar remove paint from clothes?
Yes, vinegar works great for removing water-based paint stains like acrylic or latex.
2. Does rubbing alcohol remove dried paint?
Yes, it can break down dried paint molecules and lift them from the fabric.
3. What’s the best way to remove oil paint stains?
Use turpentine, acetone, or paint thinner, followed by a wash with heavy-duty detergent.
4. Can I use bleach to remove paint stains?
Bleach should only be used on white, bleach-safe fabrics — and only as a last resort.
5. What if the paint doesn’t come out after washing?
Repeat the pretreatment process and avoid heat drying until the stain fully disappears.
Conclusion: Save Your Clothes, Not the Stain
Paint accidents happen — but they don’t have to ruin your favorite outfit. By acting quickly and using the right method based on the paint type, you can get paint out of clothes effectively without damaging the fabric.
