How to remove paint stains from clothing

The most tedious thing about using paint is that, however careful we are, we always end up getting stained. That is why, at RedVerde, we bring you a series of tips to make removing paint from clothes easier than it seems.

Wear old clothes as a first preventive measure

First tip and the most important: although it may sound obvious, at RedVerde we recommend that you wear old clothes that you no longer use day to day and that you do not mind getting stained. You will avoid mishaps and work more comfortably.

Even so, we know that sometimes we end up staining that T-shirt we wanted to keep wearing. And that is where the challenge begins: paint stains, especially gloss ones, are among the hardest to remove.

How to remove paint stains: step by step

Luckily, there are several simple, effective tricks for removing paint stains from clothes. Here we tell you the steps to follow depending on the case:

1. Act quickly if the paint is still fresh

This point is key. The sooner you act, the more likely you are to remove the stain successfully.

• Try to remove the stain before it dries.

• If you cannot clean it straight away, keep the stain damp or leave it to soak in warm water until you can treat it.

2. What if the paint is already dry?

All is not lost. If the stain has already dried, follow these two basic steps:

• Remove the excess dry paint with a spoon or a blunt knife, being careful not to damage the fabric.

• Then, wipe with a clean, dry cloth to absorb any loose paint residue.

• Finally, use a stiff-bristled brush to gently rub the stain. Do this carefully, especially if the fabric is delicate.

What type of paint is it?

Knowing the type of paint you have stained the garment with is essential for choosing the right cleaning method.

Water-based paint

• Use liquid detergent, either laundry detergent or washing-up liquid.

• For more stubborn stains, you can try ethyl alcohol or even a little acetone (test first on a hidden part of the fabric).

Oil-based paint

• Here you will need something stronger: white spirit or a specific solvent.

• Apply the product to the stain and leave it to work for a few minutes before putting the garment in the washing machine.

Need help with your products?

We hope you find these tips useful and that you manage to rescue those stained garments successfully. If you have any questions or need personalised advice, do not hesitate to contact our team. We will be delighted to help you!