How to Get Acrylic Paint Out of Clothes – Quick and Easy Methods

Acrylic paint stains on clothes can be removed effectively with the right techniques, whether the paint is wet or dried. If you’re wondering how to get acrylic paint out of clothes, acting quickly is key to preventing the paint from setting into the fabric, as wet acrylic paint is much easier to remove than dried stains. For fresh stains, blotting the excess paint, rinsing with cold water, and applying dish soap or laundry detergent can help lift the stain before washing. If the paint has already dried, using methods such as scraping off excess paint, soaking the fabric in soapy water, and applying rubbing alcohol, acetone, or vinegar and baking soda can help break down the hardened paint.

The good news is that both wet and dried acrylic paint stains can be effectively removed from your clothes with proper techniques and fast action. Regardless of whether you have to immediately respond to a new spill or deal with an old dried one, this step-by-step guide will take you through the top removal techniques, washing methods and most frequent mistakes to sidestep.

Understanding Acrylic Paint and Why It Stains Clothes

Acrylic paint is a water-soluble, fast-drying paint commonly utilized for arts crafts, and home projects. It can easily be washed from wet surfaces using water, but when dry it leaves a flexible, waterproof film that securely bonds to surfaces including clothes. Acrylic paint is hence both resistant to wear and difficult to remove from clothing.

The reason acrylic paint stains clothes so well is in its composition. It is composed of pigments suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion, allowing it to stick tightly to most materials, including fabric. As the water in the paint evaporates, it hardens and becomes difficult to remove with standard laundering procedures.

How to Remove Wet Acrylic Paint From Clothes

It is easier to remove wet acrylic paint from clothing than dried stains so acting immediately is essential. Use these steps to enhance your chances of removing the paint entirely.

Act Quickly

• The longer you wait with acrylic paint, the more difficult it is to remove. When you see the stain act immediately.

Blot Don’t Rub

• Use a paper towel or clean cloth to blot the excess paint carefully. Rubbing will force the paint further into the fabric.

Rinse with Cold Water

• Submerge the stained fabric under cold running water. This will flush some of the paint out before it dries.

Use Dish Soap or Laundry Detergent

• Add a small quantity of liquid dish soap or laundry detergent directly onto the stain.
• Gently rub it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft-bristle brush.
• Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing with water.

Wash as Usual

• Pre-treat the stain then wash the garment in the washing machine with cold water and detergent.

Check Before Drying

• Check if the stain is gone before placing the clothes in the dryer. Heat sets the stain permanently.

By acting swiftly and following these steps you can successfully eliminate wet acrylic paint before it turns into a lasting stain on your clothes.

How to Remove Dried Acrylic Paint from Clothes

Dried acrylic paint on clothing can be tricky to remove, but by following the proper procedures and exercising some patience, you can enhance your success. Because dry acrylic paint is water-resistant, it needs a mixture of mechanical removal, soaking, and chemical solutions to effectively break it down. Use the following procedures:

Scrape Off Excess Paint

• Use a dull knife, spoon, or even your fingernail to gently scrape off as much dried paint as possible.
• Be careful not to damage the fabric fibers in the process.

Soak in Soapy Water

• Fill a basin with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap or laundry detergent.
• Let the stained fabric soak for at least 30 minutes to help loosen the paint.
• Gently rub the stain with your fingers or a soft brush.

Use Rubbing Alcohol or Acetone

• Dampen a cotton ball or clean cloth with rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or acetone (nail polish remover).
• Dab the stained area, allowing the alcohol or acetone to break down the paint.
• Continue blotting and rubbing gently until the paint begins to lift.

Try Vinegar and Baking Soda

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and baking soda to create a paste.
• Apply it to the stain and let it sit for about 30 minutes.
• Scrub the area gently with an old toothbrush, then rinse.

Apply a Commercial Stain Remover

• Products like OxiClean, Shout, or Gone can be effective on stubborn paint stains.
• Follow the instructions on the product label and allow it to sit before washing.

Wash and Inspect

• Wash the clothing in cold water using regular laundry detergent.
• Before drying, check the stain—if any paint remains, repeat the process.
• Avoid using a dryer until the stain is completely gone, as heat can make it permanent.

With persistence, patience, and proper cleaning techniques, you can greatly minimize or totally eliminate dried acrylic paint stains from clothing. In case the stain persists despite several treatments, then the best recourse is to go to a professional cleaner in order to revive your garment.

Using Ammonia to Remove Dried Acrylic Paint

Ammonia can be an effective solution for removing dried acrylic paint from fabric, as it helps break down the paint’s polymer structure. However, it should be used with caution due to its strong fumes and potential fabric sensitivity. Follow these steps to safely use ammonia for paint removal:

Gather Your Supplies

• Household ammonia (clear, unscented)
• A well-ventilated area or protective mask
• Rubber gloves
• Cotton balls or a clean cloth
• A soft brush or old toothbrush
• Cold water and mild detergent

Test on a Small Area

Before applying ammonia to the stain, test it on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure it does not cause discoloration or damage.

Apply Ammonia to the Stain

• Dampen a cotton ball or cloth with ammonia and gently dab it onto the dried paint stain.
• Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the ammonia to break down the paint.

Gently Scrub the Area

• Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the loosened paint gently.
• Be careful not to damage the fabric fibers by scrubbing too aggressively.

Rinse and Wash

• Rinse the fabric thoroughly with cold water to remove any ammonia residue.
• Wash the garment as usual with laundry detergent, preferably in cold water.
• Check for any remaining stain before drying, as heat can set the paint permanently.

Precautions When Using Ammonia

• Always use ammonia in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling strong fumes.
• Never mix ammonia with bleach, as this creates toxic fumes.
• Wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation.
• Avoid using ammonia on delicate fabrics like silk or wool.

By using ammonia carefully and following these steps, you can increase your chances of successfully removing dried acrylic paint stains from your clothes.

Washing and Checking Clothes After Paint Removal

Once you’ve treated the acrylic paint stain, it’s important to wash and inspect the clothing properly to ensure the stain is completely gone. Follow these steps for the best results:

Wash in Cold Water

• Use cold or lukewarm water—never hot water, as heat can set any remaining paint into the fabric.
• Wash the clothing as you normally would, using a mild detergent.
• If possible, select a gentle or stain-removal cycle on your washing machine.

Check the Stain Before Drying

• After washing, carefully inspect the stained area before putting the clothing in the dryer.
• If any traces of paint remain, do not dry the garment, as heat will set the stain permanently.
• Instead, repeat the stain removal process and wash the item again.

Air Dry If Unsure

• If you’re not completely sure the stain is gone, let the clothing air dry instead of using a dryer.
• Natural drying allows you to check the stain later and prevents the risk of setting any remaining paint.

Repeat If Necessary

• Some stubborn paint stains may require multiple treatment attempts.
• If the stain persists, try rubbing alcohol, acetone, or a commercial stain remover again before rewashing.

By properly washing and checking your clothes after treatment, you can prevent permanent stains and keep your garments looking fresh.

Alternative Methods for Stubborn Acrylic Paint Stains

If you’ve accidentally stained your clothes with acrylic paint, don’t worry—there are several effective methods to help remove it. Here are three common techniques you can try:

Vinegar and Baking Soda

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and baking soda to create a paste.
• Apply to the stain and let sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Hairspray

• Spray alcohol-based hair spray directly onto the stain.
• Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toothbrush.
• Rinse and wash as usual.

Commercial Stain Removers

• Use a stain remover like OxiClean or Shout and follow the instructions on the label.
• Let it sit before washing the fabric in cold water.

By using these methods, you can improve your chances of successfully removing acrylic paint stains and keeping your clothes looking clean.

What Not To Do When Removing Acrylic Paint from Clothes

When dealing with acrylic paint stains, using the wrong cleaning methods can make removal more difficult or even permanent. Here are some key mistakes to avoid:

• Don’t Use Hot Water – Heat causes acrylic paint to set into fabric fibers, making the stain much harder, if not impossible, to remove. Always use cold or lukewarm water when treating the stain.

• Avoid Scrubbing Too Hard – While it might seem like vigorous scrubbing would help lift the stain, it can actually damage the fabric, causing fraying or thinning. Instead, use gentle blotting or a soft brush to work on the stain without harming the material.

• Don’t Dry Until the Stain is Gone – Heat from a dryer can permanently set any remaining paint into the fabric. Always inspect the stained area before drying, and if any residue remains, repeat the stain removal process before putting the clothing in the dryer.

• Avoid Using Bleach on Colored Fabrics – Bleach can cause discoloration or damage to the fabric, especially on darker or colored clothing. Stick to gentler stain removers like vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or commercial stain removers designed for fabric.

• Don’t Wait Too Long to Treat the Stain – Acrylic paint dries quickly, so the longer you wait, the harder it will be to remove. Treat stains as soon as possible for the best results.

By following these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of successfully removing acrylic paint from your clothes without causing additional damage.

Conclusion

Acrylic paint stains may seem daunting, but with the right approach and a little patience, they don’t have to be permanent. Acting quickly on wet paint stains and using effective removal techniques for dried stains can greatly improve your chances of restoring your clothing. From household remedies like vinegar and baking soda to commercial stain removers, there are multiple ways to tackle stubborn stains without damaging your fabric.

By following the proper washing and inspection steps, as well as avoiding common mistakes such as using hot water or drying too soon, you can prevent paint stains from setting permanently. Whether you’re an artist, a DIY enthusiast, or just someone who had an accidental spill, knowing these methods will help you keep your clothes looking fresh and stain-free.

FAQ

• Will ammonia damage my clothing?

Ammonia can be harsh on certain fabrics, especially delicate materials like silk or wool. Always test it on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the stain.

• Can I use a hair dryer or iron to speed up drying after removing the paint?

No, heat can set any remaining paint into the fabric, making it even harder to remove. Always let the clothing air dry if you’re unsure whether the stain is completely gone.

• How many times should I repeat the stain removal process?

It depends on the severity of the stain. Some paint stains may require multiple treatments before they completely disappear. Always check the stain before drying the garment.