Different paints and the best methods for cleaning their stains off carpets
When it comes to removing paints from carpets, what is good for the geese may not be ideal for the gander. So, it is best if you know what works for different types of paints.
Removing water-based or latex paint stains
Latex or water-based paints are usually the easiest to clean off carpets because their base solution is water, which naturally will respond to water-cleaning solutions.
Steps
Use the blunt knife to remove the top of the pain and blot with a wet paper towel to absorb most of the stain. Rubbing or scrubbing the stain will sink it deep into the carpet fibers, making it difficult to clean; so, just keep blotting with a clean paper towel until you get the stain off. For dried paint stains, mix a few drops of detergent or dishwashing liquid with hot water in a spray bottle, spray on the affected area, and leave it for about five minutes to soften the paint. Use the dull knife to remove the soft paint and blot the area with a paper towel. For latex paints, you can also put a little distilled white vinegar on a white cloth and use it to dab the stain. If the dried stain doesn’t respond effectively to the hot water and soap solution, use a garment or carpet steamer on the affected spot and continue to scrape and blot until the stain comes off completely. Vacuum the area to remove paint particles and lift the carpet fibers.
Removing acrylic paint stains from carpet
Although acrylic paints are water-based, they seem to be more difficult to remove from carpets, especially when already dried.
Steps
For wet acrylic paint stain, blot with a paper towel. For dry acrylic paint stains, use a soft bristle toothbrush to loosen the paint and use a blunt knife to scrape it off. Mix a mild detergent or dishwashing liquid and warm water in a spray bottle and apply to the affected area. Use a paper towel to blot until the stain comes off. If the stain remains after following steps 1 to 5, add a few drops of acetone or any of the solutions mentioned above to a white cloth and use it to dab the paint stain until it comes off. Don’t indulge in this step without wearing a nose mask and gloves because acetone can be harmful to your health. Vacuum the area to clean and revive carpet fibers.
Removing oil-based paint stains
These are more tricky and difficult to remove and require more than warm water and detergent solution.
Steps
For a wet or fresh paint stain, use an old credit card or a blunt knife to remove most of the paint from the carpet. Use a steamer to keep the paint wet as you blot with a paper cloth. Treat the affected area with turpentine or a paint thinner followed by a solution of detergent and hot water and use a soft bristle toothbrush to scrub. Rinse the treated area with a clean damp cloth. Remove the excess moisture by blotting with a paper towel. Vacuum the area.
What chemical solutions do I need to remove paint from my carpet?
Some chemicals may cause discoloration on your carpet; before you use any chemical solution, run a patch test by using it on the corner of your carpet and waiting for five to ten minutes to see if it will cause any negative effect. If it does, you may have to find another solution and run the same test until you get one that fits. Here’s a list of chemicals that can remove paint stains from carpets.
TurpentineHydrogen peroxideNail polish removerWD-40Isopropyl alcoholDistilled vinegarBaking soda mixed with laundry detergent and warm waterWhite spirit
Conclusions
Cleaning your carpet isn’t the easiest of household chores and adding paint stain even worsens the matter; nevertheless, the steps we’ve discussed will simplify the cleaning process. Because you have dabbed and blotted a few times doesn’t mean you should give up. Removing paint stains from the carpet may take a while, but with patience, the right tools, and cleaning solutions, you can get the job done. if it seems too much for you, call for a professional cleaning service.
Do I have to call to professional to help remove the paint stain from my carpet?
If you try the tips we mentioned above and the stain remains, then you can call a professional to help you out.
How does alcohol remove paint from the carpet?
Alcohol is a degreasing agent that will dissolve the polymer binding water-based and acrylic paint particles together, making the paint stain easy to remove.
