White shirt stained with vibrant red, yellow, and blue acrylic paint splatters, alongside cleaning tools like a green scrubbing brush and a bottle of cleaning liquid.

How to Get Acrylic Paint Out of Clothes

Acrylic paint stains on your favorite outfit can be frustrating, but don’t worry — we’ve got you covered! With some know-how and quick action, you can restore your clothes to their original glory. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you tackle those stubborn stains.

Page Contents

Understanding Acrylic Paint

Acrylic paint is popular for its vibrant colors and versatility, but its composition makes it stick firmly to fabric. Once it dries, it forms a water-resistant plastic-like layer, which is why acting quickly is crucial to prevent it from setting.

A close-up view of a white cloth with blue and yellow acrylic paint splatters next to a paint palette with vibrant colors, highlighting creative mess.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these items to make the process easier:

Cold water
Mild dish soap
Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
Clean white cloths or paper towels
Heavy-duty laundry detergent
Optional: Baking soda, nail polish remover (with acetone), or hairspray

Step-by-Step Stain Removal Process

A man washing a white cloth in a sink, focusing on stain removal in a colorful tiled bathroom.

1. Act Fast for Wet Paint

If the paint is still wet, quick action is your best friend:

Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot the excess paint gently. Avoid rubbing, as this pushes the paint deeper into the fabric.
Rinse with Cold Water: Run the stained area under cold water, with the water flowing from the back of the fabric to push the paint out. Never use hot water as it can set the stain.

2. Treat the Stain

Now that the bulk of the paint is gone, it’s time to treat what’s left:

Dish Soap Solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with cold water. Apply this to the stain and gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush.
Rinse Thoroughly: Wash the area with cold water to remove any soap residue.

3. Removing Dried Paint

If the paint has already dried, don’t worry. It’s still possible to save your clothes:

Use Isopropyl Alcohol: Soak the stained area in rubbing alcohol and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps to loosen the dried paint.
Blot and Scrub: Use a clean cloth to blot the stain, followed by gentle scrubbing with a toothbrush to lift the paint.

4. Alternative Methods for Tough Stains

If the stain persists, try one of these techniques:

Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with dish soap to form a paste. Apply it to the stain and scrub gently.
Nail Polish Remover or Hairspray: Dab a small amount of acetone-based nail polish remover or alcohol-based hairspray on the stain. Always test on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric.

Launder with Care

After treating the stain, wash the garment:

Use heavy-duty laundry detergent and the warmest water temperature safe for the fabric.
Check the stain before drying. If it’s still visible, repeat the treatment process. Avoid machine drying until the stain is gone; heat can set it permanently.

Additional Tips and Precautions

Always spot-test cleaning agents on an inconspicuous area before applying them to the stain.
Avoid using harsh chemicals on delicate fabrics or garments labeled “dry clean only.”
For valuable or delicate items, consider taking them to a professional cleaner.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Wear old clothes or aprons when working with acrylic paint.
Keep cleaning materials like paper towels and soap nearby during painting projects for immediate action.

Conclusion

Removing acrylic paint from clothes might seem challenging, but with the right steps and a little patience, it’s entirely possible. By acting quickly and using these effective methods, you can keep your wardrobe looking its best. So, the next time you have a paint mishap, don’t panic—just follow this guide, and you’ll be good to go!

Happy cleaning!