7 Ways to Safely Clean Paint Splatters and Spills

Paint is designed to stick. This is good news for all the surfaces you plan on painting, but it also means that you may end up with a bit of a mess. No matter how carefully you or your interior house painters prepare and execute the job, paint is bound to spill and splatter here and there.

If and when this happens, don’t panic. It might look bad, especially when paint lands on carpeting or furniture, but all paint can be removed one way or another. The key is choosing the best method for the surface you’re cleaning. Here are 7 ways to safely clean paint splatters and spills during and after a home painting project.

Ways to Clean Paint Spills

1. Vinegar and Oils

It turns out that the tools you need to clean up stray paint may already be in your kitchen pantry. Vinegar, olive oil, and vegetable oil can all be used to loosen up paint on various surfaces like countertops and even carpets.

2. Nail Polish Remover

Nail polish and paint are alike in many ways, so it makes sense that nail polish remover also comes in handy for cleaning up paint splatters. The chemicals contained in nail polish removal are quite strong, so this is a good option for more stubborn stains and dried paint.

3. Rubbing Alcohol

Another household item can be used for paint spills, too: rubbing alcohol. This solvent helps loosen thick or dried paint on flat, smooth surfaces like linoleum and vinyl floors.

4. Soap, Water, and a Scraper

When in doubt, soap and warm water can be an effective antidote for certain types of paint, especially on glass surfaces. And anyone who has painted window trim knows how often paint ends up on the pane itself. You don’t want to scratch or damage the window when cleaning it, so use a gentle sponge or rag when applying the soap and water. Let it soak for a while, then use a good razor blade to easily scrape away the loosened paint.

5. Mineral Spirits

Also known as paint thinner, mineral spirits are among the most commonly used materials by interior painting services to clean up paint splatters and spills, especially for oil-based paints. This volatile organic compound is potent, so a little goes a long way. When removing paint from a wooden surface, for instance, start by using just a little bit of mineral spirits to avoid damaging the surface itself. You can always use more as needed.

6. Chemical Paint Strippers

Cleaning some paint spills on certain surfaces requires a more aggressive approach. Chemical paint strippers can be used for paint on concrete surfaces. These products are often commercial-grade and should be handled with caution. It’s often best to hire a contractor to apply and remove this product. There are also less hazardous, natural paint strippers available. These are nearly as effective and safer to use.

7. Paint Removing Gels

Paint removers are similar to paint strippers but often less toxic. These non-corrosive products can remove latex and oil-based paint from wood, brick, and even metal surfaces.

Getting paint where it doesn’t belong is a normal part of the home interior painting process. It’s worth mentioning that no matter what method or material you use, it’s always best to try to remove paint spills and splatters as soon as possible while they’re still wet. Never rub the paint either; always blot it so it doesn’t spread and further stain any surfaces.

If you need more advice or assistance cleaning up some paint spills, Nash Painting has the experience and attention to detail you’re looking for. We’re a proud Nashville painting company that doesn’t cut corners or leave a mess after the job’s done. For more about us, our services, and our values, call us at (615) 829-6858 today!