Thursday, October 22, 2015

Removing Oilbased Paints

There is hope for oil-based paint removal.


Oil-based paints are very difficult to clean when spilled, and even more difficult if the paint has already dried. You will most likely need a paint thinner or mineral spirits to remove. Not all surfaces can be treated equally, however. Always check the label on the can first as most paints contain information on stain removal.


Removing Paint from Clothing


If you get paint on your clothing, use turpentine to blot the stain and remove as much as possible, then rinse with cool water. Apply dishwashing soap to the area and blot. Wash your clothing according to laundry instructions, then apply dishwashing soap again, saturating the area for 30 minutes. Scrub, rinse and launder again. If the stain is older, try WD-40 to reactivate the paint. Apply dishwashing soap, scrub gently with a cloth, and wash as usual.


Removing Paint from Floors


Wipe wet paint up immediately with a damp cloth. Use rubbing alcohol to wipe the area by compressing it for a few minutes. Gently rub the area with superfine steel wool if necessary, then wash of soapy water. Wet paint on your carpet should be soaked up with paper towels after applying clean water to the paint. Continue until the paint is gone. If the paint is already dry, apply mineral spirits or paint thinner with a cloth. First, test in a inconspicuous area. Wash with water and carpet shampoo. Wood floors are best treated when the paint is still wet. Otherwise, it may be impossible to remove the paint from the floor. For wet paint, wipe the floor immediately with a sponge and warm water, and dry the floor. Do not use paint thinner or mineral spirits on wooden or vinyl flooring.


Removing Paint from Paint Brushes


To clean oil-based paints from paint brushes, you need paint thinner or mineral spirits. Dip the paintbrush in the solution to clean, and rinse it in a second container of clean solution. Coffee cans are effective containers. Comb out your brush with a brush comb. A needle will work just well, too, to get through the bristles. Use your hands to apply liquid soap and massage into the brush. Rinse and remove all water, and dry your brush by hanging it or storing it flat. Never store your brush on the bristles.