Acrylic paint spills can happen to anyone, whether you're a seasoned artist or just working on a casual DIY project. One minute you're blissfully painting you're Passion Paints custom paint by number kit (we had to throw in some self promo haha), then suddenly you glance down and notice a blotch of paint on your favorite dress. It happens to the best of us, especially when you're in a flow state. Fortunately, you don’t have to panic! Removing acrylic paint, even if it has dried, is easy to do with the right techniques. This guide will walk you through the steps to get acrylic paint out of clothes, so you can save your wardrobe.
Why Is Acrylic Paint So Tough to Remove?
Acrylic paint is popular because it’s fast-drying and water-based when wet, but once it dries it's tough to remove off any fabric (us artists know that all too well). When dried, it forms a plastic-like coating that adheres to fabric fibers. This makes it great for art projects but not so great when it ends up on your favorite shirt. The key to effectively removing acrylic paint is acting quickly and using the right approach depending on whether the paint is wet or dry.
How to Remove Wet Acrylic Paint from Clothes
If you catch the paint while it’s still wet, you’re in luck! Wet acrylic paint is much easier to remove compared to dried paint so you've saved yourself a lot of hassle. Just follow the following steps and you can still wear that dress on your next night out.
Step 1: Rinse Immediately
Take the stained garment to the sink and run cold water through the back of the fabric to push the paint out. Doing this as soon as possible prevents the paint from setting into the fibers.
Step 2: Blot Gently
Use a clean paper towel (tissues and napkins work too) or cloth to blot (not rub) the paint. This will lift off the excess paint without spreading it further. Avoid using too much pressure, as rubbing could work the paint deeper into the fabric.
Step 3: Pre-Treat with Dish Soap
Next, apply a small amount of dish soap or laundry detergent directly to the stained area. Gently rub the detergent into the fabric using your fingers or a soft brush. Allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes to break down the paint particles.
Step 4: Wash the Garment
Finally, put the garment into the washing machine and ensure you're using cold water. Check the stained area before drying to ensure the paint is completely gone. If it isn't then run it through the wash again repeating step 3 beforehand. If it is then congratulations you're outfit lives to paint another day! It might be worth investing in a smock before continuing that painting project fyi.
How to Remove Dried Acrylic Paint from Clothes
Dried acrylic paint is tougher to handle, but with persistence, your favorite outfit can still be saved. Here's how to tackle those more stubborn stains.
Step 1: Scrape Off Excess Paint
Use a dull knife or spoon to gently scrape off as much of the dried paint as possible. Be careful not to damage the fabric during this process, we'd suggest opting for the spoon if the fabric is sensitive. This step helps remove the hardened surface layer of the paint.
Step 2: Apply a Stain Remover or Alcohol
For dried stains, you'll need something stronger than soap. You can use rubbing alcohol or we suggest using a stain remover like OxiClean which you can get fairly cheap on Amazon. Apply it directly to the stain and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Step 3: Gently Scrub the Area
Once the alcohol or stain remover has had time to break down the paint, use a soft-bristle toothbrush or a cloth to gently scrub the area. The dried paint should begin to loosen and lift off the fabric.
Step 4: Rinse and Wash
Rinse the stained area under cold water, then launder the garment as you normally would. Be sure to check for any remaining paint before placing the item in the dryer. If any paint remains, repeat the steps before drying.
Using Common Household Items for Acrylic Paint Removal
If you don't have commercial stain removers on hand, there are a few household items you can use to tackle acrylic paint stains.
- Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mix a small amount of vinegar with baking soda to form a paste. Apply this mixture to the stained area and gently scrub before rinsing.
- Rubbing Alcohol: Effective for dried paint, rubbing alcohol can help soften and lift the paint from the fabric. Apply it directly to the stain and scrub gently.
- Hairspray: The alcohol in hairspray can break down acrylic paint, especially for smaller spots. Spray it on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then blot with a damp cloth.
Can All Stains Be Removed?
While many acrylic paint stains can be removed with the methods listed above, the effectiveness depends on factors like the fabric type, the amount of paint, and how long the paint has been on your clothes. Synthetic fabrics like polyester tend to hold paint more than natural fabrics like cotton, so results may vary. However, with persistence and the right products, there’s a good chance you can save your favorite outfit from permanent damage and move on to the next project paint free.
