Accidentally getting paint on your clothes can be frustrating, especially if it’s dried or set in. Whether it’s latex paint, acrylic paint, or water-based paint, removing it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to remove old paint from clothes, including how to get dried paint out of clothes, how to remove water-based paint from clothes, and what removes acrylic paint from clothes. With the right techniques and products, you can save your favorite garments from permanent stains.

How to Remove Latex Paint from Clothing

Latex paint is one of the most common types of paint, and thankfully, it’s also one of the easiest to remove from clothing if you act quickly. Here’s how:

For Wet Latex Paint:

1. Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a paper towel or cloth to blot the wet paint gently. Rubbing can spread the stain.
2. Rinse with Cold Water: Hold the stained area under cold running water to flush out as much paint as possible.
3. Apply Dish Soap: Rub a small amount of dish soap into the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
4. Wash as Usual: Launder the garment in cold water. Check the stain before drying—repeat the process if necessary.

For Dried Latex Paint:

1. Scrape Off Excess Paint: Use a dull knife or spoon to gently scrape off dried paint.
2. Soak in Warm, Soapy Water: Submerge the stained area in warm water mixed with dish soap for 30 minutes.
3. Use a Stain Remover: Apply a stain remover or rubbing alcohol to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Wash the Garment: Launder the clothing in warm water.

How to Remove Water-Based Paint from Clothes

Water-based paints, including latex and acrylic, are easier to remove than oil-based paints. Here’s how to tackle them:

For Wet Water-Based Paint:

1. Rinse Immediately: Hold the stain under cold running water to remove as much paint as possible.
2. Apply Laundry Detergent: Rub a small amount of laundry detergent into the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Wash in Cold Water: Launder the garment in cold water.

For Dried Water-Based Paint:

1. Scrape Off Dried Paint: Use a dull knife or spoon to remove as much dried paint as possible.
2. Soak in Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, then soak the stained area for 30 minutes.
3. Wash as Usual: Launder the garment in warm water.

How to Remove Acrylic Paint from Clothes

Acrylic paint is more stubborn than latex or water-based paint, but it can still be removed with the right approach.

For Wet Acrylic Paint:

1. Blot the Stain: Use a paper towel to blot the wet paint gently.
2. Rinse with Cold Water: Hold the stain under cold running water.
3. Apply Rubbing Alcohol: Dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain using a cotton ball or cloth.
4. Wash the Garment: Launder the clothing in cold water.

For Dried Acrylic Paint:

1. Scrape Off Excess Paint: Use a dull knife or spoon to remove dried paint.
2. Apply Nail Polish Remover: Use a cotton ball soaked in nail polish remover (acetone) to dab the stain. Test on a small area first to ensure it won’t damage the fabric.
3. Wash the Garment: Launder the clothing in warm water.

How to Remove Oil-Based Paint from Clothes

Oil-based paints are more challenging to remove, but it’s not impossible. Here’s how:

For Wet Oil-Based Paint:

1. Blot the Stain: Use a paper towel to blot the wet paint gently.
2. Apply Mineral Spirits: Dab mineral spirits onto the stain using a cloth. Work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves.
3. Rinse and Wash: Rinse the area with cold water, then launder the garment.

For Dried Oil-Based Paint:

1. Scrape Off Excess Paint: Use a dull knife or spoon to remove dried paint.
2. Apply Paint Thinner: Dab paint thinner onto the stain using a cloth. Test on a small area first.
3. Wash the Garment: Launder the clothing in warm water.

Tips for Removing Paint Stains

• Act Quickly: The sooner you address the stain, the easier it will be to remove.
• Avoid Heat: Never use hot water or a dryer until the stain is completely gone, as heat can set the paint.
• Test First: Always test cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to avoid damage.
• Use Stain Removers: Products like OxiClean or Shout can be effective for paint stains.