Certain types of paint can spell the end for fabrics… or at least that’s what most people assume. Too many people discard upholstered furniture, carpet or garments the moment they’re hit with a dollop of paint — when it isn’t always necessary.
Of course, come delicate fibres such as silk and wool won’t stand a chance where gloss paint is involved, but there are certain paint-fabric combinations that are reasonably receptive to specific cleaning methods — if you act quickly.
Note: These tips are all last resorts. You should always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before using any cleaning agents on clothes, carpet, curtains and upholstery.
Water and latex-based paints
If you’re dealing with fresh paint that hasn’t had time to dry, there’s a very good chance that some warm water and a little detergent should be enough to remove the stain. But in order to prevent damage to the fabric, you will probably need to apply the water gently with a sponge. If the paint has dried, scraping it off with a blunt knife will get you so far, but you’ll eventually need to use detergent and warm water.
Remember: If you’re dealing with a dry-clean only garment, take it straight to a specialist cleaning service.
Oil-based paints
If you have an oil-based paint on your clothes, carpet or furniture, the chances of removing it all are a little slimmer. That said, removing the excess and blotting with a little turpentine should deliver reasonable results if the paint is still wet. If it’s dry, however, you’ll need to soften it with a paint thinner first.
Removing oil-based paints from fabric is notoriously difficult, and the force needed often destroys the fibres. Remember to blot, not scrub. Use small amounts of turpentine at a time, and dab them into the paint stain with a sponge.
If you’re treating acrylic paint, the faster you act, the easier the stain removal process will be. Start by rinsing the spillage with cold water. Remove the excess by dabbing with a clean sponge, then add a little warm, soapy water to the affected area. Continue to blot the stain with clean areas of the sponge, and add a little white vinegar is necessary.
Extra steps required for removing paint from upholstery
If you’re removing paint from an upholstered chair or sofa, you should start the process by scraping off any excess with a blunt knife. Ventilate the room before spraying some warm, soapy water over the stain (dishwashing detergent works best). Gently blot the paint up using a sponge or paper towels. Rinse the solution away, and then repeat if necessary. If you’ve tried everything and you’re still unable to remove the paint, try a little turpentine — but apply it to a hidden area of the upholstery first, in case it causes damage. If all else fails, blotting the stain with acetone could be your last roll of the dice.
Extra steps required for removing paint from carpet
If the paint is dry, very gently scrape it off with a blunt knife. You might find that softening the paint first with a solution of warm water and dishwashing detergent makes the the job a little easier. Apply a paint or varnish remover, and continue scraping away the paint. However, be careful not to spread the stain. It’s always best to work on individual carpet fibres, one at a time.
If this painstaking process isn’t working, you can try adding a little glycerin into the stain. Continue blotting with warm soapy water, and add a little white vinegar if things need a helping hand.
Acting quickly and decisively should drastically increase your chances of successfully removing paint from fabric. However, regardless of the type of paint or fabric, the stain removal process is a painstaking one.