How to Get Paint Out of Clothes: Fast & Easy Stain Fixes

Neither is it always a permanent condition: Paint stains on clothing can be frustrating, but they aren’t always there to stay. Whether it’s a diy job or a fluke accident, the answer is to act fast with the right approach.

This is a how-to guide that will help you identify the paint type and remove fresh, dried stains with simple methods. No more guesswork —only a simple solution to saving your clothes.

Pre-Treatment: What to Do Before Removing Paint Stains

Check the Clothing Label

If you get a spill on your jumpsuit, read the care label before you make any stains. Some fabrics—such as silk or wool—need to be handled delicately or taken to a professional cleaner. Extreme heat or powerful solvents can destroy delicate materials. 

Identify the Type of Paint

You need to know the type of paint–water-based or oil-based. Water-based paints will come off with soap and water; oil-based paints require turpentine or paint thinner.

Act Fast: Why Time Matters

New stains are always less difficult to get out. As the paint dries, it tightens up and becomes more ingrained in fibers, which makes removal harder. The sooner you treat, the more likely you are to succeed.

How to Remove Water-Based (Acrylic & Latex) Paint from Clothes

Supplies You’ll Need

Blunt scraper, Warm Water, Liquid dish soap, Soft bristle brush, and washing machine.

Step-by-Step Guide

 Step 1: Scrape off excess paint

Scrape away excess paint with a spoon or dull knife ( do not spread the stain).

 Step 2: Rinse with warm water

Flush the back side of the stained area with warm running water.

 Step 3: Pre-treat with detergent

Squeeze liquid detergent onto spots; massage in with fingers or a soft-bristled brush; wait 10-15 minutes.

 Step 4: Wash as usual

Wash as normal in the laundry cycle with warm water; air dry to prevent setting any stain that may be left.

How to Get Oil-Based Paint Out of Clothes

What You’ll Need

Soft rag, dish or paint thinner, soft brush, cold water, enzyme-based detergent machine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

 Step 1: Blot from the inside out

Dab at the stain from the underside of the fabric with a clean cloth, which will raise the excess paint.

 Step 2: Treat with dish soap or paint thinner

Use dish soap or paint thinner; pat paint lightly, and stir without rubbing.

 Step 3: Soak and rinse thoroughly

Soak in cold water for 30-60 minutes. Rinse thoroughly to remove residue.

 Step 4: Wash with enzyme-based detergent

Wash the inside of the blanket with an enzyme-based detergent on the cold cycle; air dry and inspect before reheating.

How to Remove Dried vs. Fresh Paint Stains

Tips for Removing Fresh Paint

Move fast, blot up as much paint as possible without rubbing. If the lube is water-based, rinse out with warm water. If necessary, soak in a pre-wash product before washing.

Tricks for Getting Rid of Dried Paint

Soft day paint by soaking in warm, soapy water or rubbing alcohol/paint thinner. Lightly scrape the soft paint, and then pretreat with detergent before laundering.

Recommended Products That Work on Dried Paint

Products that may also remove dried paint from various surfaces include denatured alcohol, turpentine, and dishwasher detergent. Try isopropyl alcohol, acetone, or paint removers that are offered commercially for fabric. It’s never a bad idea to test on an inconspicuous area to prevent damaging the surface.

Removing Paint from Different Types of Clothing

How to Get Paint Out of Denim (Jeans)

Remove excess paint, pretreat with detergent or stain remover, wash in warm water, and do not use high heat drying.

How to Remove Paint from Cotton T-Shirts

Run the stain immediately under warm water, apply liquid detergent and gently work through the stain, then launder as per usual.

How to Clean Paint off Wool or Delicates

Clean water-based paints off wool or delicate fabrics with mild detergent or dry solvent, blot gently, do not soak, air-dry flat.

Paint on Synthetics: What to Do

Soak in warm water, slowly rub with detergent, and air dry to extend life.

Pro Tips for Getting Paint Out of Clothes

Use Cold Water When in Doubt

This will stop the stain setting, wherever the fabric may be.

Test on a Small Area First

And, as always, test cleaners on hidden areas to help prevent fabric damage. 

Don’t Mix Cleaning Agents

Mixing chemicals together can create toxins or ruin your clothing.

Repeat the Process if Needed

Tough stains such as oil, will require several applications to be completely removed.

What If the Paint Won’t Come Out?

Try a Dry Cleaner

Specialist solvents will enable professional cleaners to treat even the most stubborn of stains.

Turn It Into DIY Clothing Art

Get creative-paint splatters as a design element shouldn’t be accidental.

When to Give Up and Replace It

If the fabric is torn or the stain is indelible, it might be better to replace.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Paint Ruin Your Clothes

Replace if Fabric is damaged or stain is permanent if the fabric is damaged or if the stain is permanent. Replacing the fabric, the fabric is like a lisle