To get acrylic paint out of clothes, the approach depends on whether the paint is wet or dried. Here are effective methods for both situations:
For Wet Acrylic Paint Stains
- Remove excess paint: Gently scrape off any blobs with a dull knife or spoon without rubbing it deeper into the fabric.
- Flush with water: Hold the stained area under cold or warm running water from the back of the fabric to push paint out of the fibers.
- Apply dish soap: Rub dish soap into the stain and gently scrub with fingers or a soft brush.
- Rinse and repeat: Rinse with warm water and repeat the soap application until the stain fades.
- Wash normally: Launder the garment as usual but avoid drying if the stain persists
For Dried Acrylic Paint Stains
- Scrape off dried paint: Use a dull knife or butter knife to carefully lift off as much dried paint as possible.
- Apply rubbing alcohol: Soak a cotton ball or cloth with isopropyl alcohol and dab or rub the stain, working from the outside inward to prevent spreading. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Scrub gently: Use an old toothbrush or nylon brush to scrub the stain, loosening the paint.
- Use a paste for stubborn stains: Mix equal parts baking soda, dish soap, and rubbing alcohol to make a paste. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
- Alternative solvents: Nail polish remover (acetone), hairspray, denatured alcohol, or paint thinner can also dissolve acrylic paint but test on a hidden area first to avoid fabric damage.
- Wash and air dry: After treatment, wash the garment normally and air dry. Repeat if necessary
Additional Tips
- Act quickly for best results, as acrylic paint is easier to remove when wet.
- Always test solvents like acetone or paint thinner on a hidden fabric area first.
- Avoid putting stained clothes in the dryer until the stain is fully removed, as heat can set the paint permanently
These methods use common household items and solvents to effectively remove acrylic paint from clothes without ruining the fabric.
