How to Remove Paint from Clothes: Simple Tricks That Actually Work

Few things are as frustrating as getting paint on your clothes — especially when you’re in the middle of a creative project or home renovation. The good news? You don’t have to toss your favorite shirt or jeans just yet. With the right approach, knowing how to remove paint from clothes can help you save almost any fabric, whether it’s cotton, denim, or polyester.

The trick is identifying the type of paint — water-based, oil-based, or acrylic — and treating it accordingly. Let’s go step by step through how to remove each kind safely and effectively.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Paint

Before you grab the detergent, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. Each type of paint reacts differently to cleaning agents.

• Water-based paint (latex or washable paint): Common for home walls and easy to remove when wet.

• Acrylic paint: Dries fast and becomes water-resistant, used in crafts and art projects.

• Oil-based paint: Most stubborn and requires stronger solvents like turpentine or paint thinner.

Pro Tip: Check the paint can or tube label if you still have it — it’ll tell you the paint type.

Step 2: How to Remove Water-Based Paint from Clothes

If you’re lucky enough to catch water-based paint while it’s still wet, removing it is simple.

For Wet Paint:

1. Rinse immediately: Hold the stained area under cold running water.

2. Apply detergent: Rub a small amount of liquid laundry detergent or dish soap into the stain.

3. Soak: Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse.

4. Wash normally: Run the garment through a cold wash cycle.

For Dried Paint:

1. Scrape off as much paint as possible with a dull knife or spoon.

2. Soak the stain in a mixture of warm water and detergent for about an hour.

3. Use a soft brush to loosen the paint.

4. Wash and air-dry.

Step 3: How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Clothes

Acrylic paint dries quickly, forming a plastic-like layer that clings to fibers. But don’t worry — it’s not impossible to remove.

For Wet Paint:

1. Act fast: Blot (don’t rub!) with a clean paper towel.

2. Rinse with cold water from the back of the fabric to push out the paint.

3. Apply dish soap or laundry detergent and gently work it in with your fingers or an old toothbrush.

4. Rinse and repeat until the paint is gone.

For Dried Acrylic Paint:

1. Gently scrape off any dried residue.

2. Apply rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or acetone (nail polish remover) to the area with a cotton ball.

3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then blot gently with a clean cloth.

4. Rinse and wash normally.

Warning: Always test alcohol or acetone on a hidden area first — some fabrics may fade or react to strong solvents.

Step 4: How to Remove Oil-Based Paint from Clothes

Oil-based paint is the trickiest because it contains heavy oils and pigments. Here’s how to handle it without ruining your garment.

1. Scrape off excess paint using a blunt knife or spoon.

2. Apply paint thinner or turpentine to the stain with a clean rag or cotton ball.

3. Blot carefully until the paint begins to lift — avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain.

4. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.

5. Apply liquid detergent and wash as usual.

If the smell of turpentine is too strong, try substituting with WD-40 or mineral spirits — both can break down oil-based paint.

Note: Never use strong solvents on delicate fabrics like silk, wool, or rayon — they can cause damage.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

• Always air-dry first. If the paint isn’t fully removed, heat from the dryer will set the stain permanently.

• Repeat the process if needed. Some stains take a couple of tries to disappear completely.

• Use a stain remover (like OxiClean or Shout) as a final step before the wash for extra cleaning power.

Quick Reference: Paint Type Cheat Sheet

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t use hot water before removing the stain — it sets the paint.

• Don’t rub aggressively — this spreads and embeds the paint deeper.

• Don’t dry the garment until the paint is completely gone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I remove paint from clothes after it dries?

Yes, you can. Dried paint just takes a bit more work — try scraping it off first and then using rubbing alcohol, acetone, or paint thinner depending on the paint type.

2. Will vinegar remove paint from clothes?

Vinegar works on water-based paints to soften the residue but isn’t effective on oil or acrylic paints.

3. Can baking soda remove paint stains?

Baking soda can help loosen mild paint residue when mixed with water or vinegar, but it’s best for surface stains, not thick dried paint.

4. Does nail polish remover remove paint?

Yes — acetone-based nail polish remover can dissolve acrylic and some oil-based paints, but always test it on fabric first.

5. What if I can’t identify the paint type?

Start with mild detergent and water first. If the stain doesn’t budge, move on to alcohol-based solutions, then solvents as a last resort.

Conclusion: Save Your Clothes with Quick Action

Learning how to remove paint from clothes is all about acting quickly and using the right method for your paint type. Water-based paints can often be rinsed out with detergent, while acrylic and oil-based stains may need stronger solutions like alcohol or turpentine.

Always remember to test cleaning agents on hidden spots first, and air-dry until you’re sure the stain is completely gone. With a little patience, your favorite outfit can look brand new again.