Anyone who uses paint at work or around the house knows that it is easy to get paint on woodwork, window glass or the floor. Paint also finds its way onto clothing from time to time. When there is a need to remove latex paint from any material or surface, there are basic methods that are often very effective. Here are a few examples.
When it is necessary to remove latex paint from glass or woodwork, it is often a good idea to apply a small amount of turpentine to the spill. Keep in mind that turpentine is strong and very little is required to soften the dried paint. This makes it possible to use a clean cloth to gently remove the paint splatter, without having to use a sharp edged instrument that could leave behind a scratch in the surface.
Latex paint removal may also be necessary after painting a room that is carpeted. Even when drop cloths are placed properly, there is still the chance for the paint to find its way to some obscure corner of the carpeting. Removing as much of the paint as possible while it is still wet will minimize the problem, and also make it possible to use a simple detergent to remove the remainder of the spill.
After getting up as much of the paint as possible by blotting with a clean cloth, continue to remove latex paint from the carpet by dampening the area with a sponge. Blot the area again and see if there is still paint residue present. If so, repeat the process a few more times to see if all the remaining paint stain comes up.
For stubborn stains on the carpeting, create a mixture of dish washing detergent and lukewarm water. Allow the mixture to soak into the stain, then blot with a clean cloth. Vacuum the area thoroughly once the carpeting is dry.
It is often necessary to remove latex paint from clothing as well. If the clothing is not dry clean only, a good approach is to use a putty knife to remove as much of the paint as possible, then rinse in warm water at once. To complete the latex paint stain removal, launder the garment in a washing machine at once.
When it seems impossible to remove latex paint using homemade solutions, it may be necessary to visit your local home store and purchase one of the several paint removal products on the market. Make sure to read the usage instructions thoroughly before making the purchase. Some of these products to remove latex paint are multi-purpose, but there are brands that are especially formulated for use on carpeting, woodwork, or clothing.
