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How to Remove Spray Paint: 6 Methods to Try

Rachael Provost

By Rachael Provost
Published February 9, 2024

Spray paint is a convenient and versatile paint option, allowing you to complete crafts to interior projects, automotive work and more. But sometimes overspray and drips get where they're not supposed to be. We’ll show you several ways to get paint off surfaces like metal, wood, glass and more.

Skill

Beginner

Time

Few Hours

Pink paint around the nozzle of a spray paint can.

Prepare For Paint Removal

Before starting, prepare the area where you’ll be working and gather all the supplies you’ll need for the job.

  • If you’re working with paint strippers or other solvents, have cleaning gloves, an appropriate respirator, safety goggles and other protective gear ready, and work in a space with good ventilation.
  • Cover surfaces surrounding the area you’ll be treating with drop cloths, cardboard or another form of protection to prevent additional damage and more work.
  • Check the label on the spray paint that was used to determine if it’s oil- or water-based. Paint removal methods may vary depending on the paint type. Water- or latex-based paints may only need a bit of scrubbing with soap and water. For oil-based paint, paint strippers or other solvents tend to work best. Follow all manufacturer instructions on any products being used to remove paint.
  • Gather any tools and materials you’ll need, such as paint strippers or solvents, scrapers and cleaning cloths.

Good to Know

Freshly sprayed paint generally comes off easier than paint that has time to dry. Remove any excess paint as soon as possible to make cleanup easier.

Identify the Surface Type

Different surfaces require different paint removal methods to avoid damage. Take note of the type of surface the paint is on so you can choose an appropriate method to safely remove it. Most of the methods below can be applied to removing oil-based paints. Never mix any chemicals or solvents. Follow all manufacturer instructions for the product you’re using.

Tip

Before trying any of these methods, test in an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t further damage the surface.

Metal Surfaces

For removing paint from metal surfaces, try the following method.

What You’ll Need:

Instructions:

  1. Start by using a scraper to try and gently remove the paint.
  2. Apply a paint stripper or solvent. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
  3. Use a brush or abrasive pad to scrub the surface to remove any remaining paint.
  4. Rinse the surface.
  5. If there’s still paint left behind, repeat the steps.
  6. When all the paint has been removed, wipe the surface down using a damp cloth.

Need to Know

Work in a well-ventilated area when using paint strippers and wear the appropriate safety gear, including cleaning gloves, respirator and safety goggles.

Wood Surfaces

For wood surfaces, try the following method.

What You’ll Need:

Instructions:

  1. Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently work on the painted area. Thicker paint may require a coarser grit sandpaper. Work slowly and carefully.
  2. For stubborn paint, you may need to introduce a paint remover. Make sure it’s suitable for wood surfaces and follow all manufacturer instructions for application. Let the paint remover seep into the wood, then use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to remove the paint.

Caution

Sandpaper and paint remover can remove varnish or stain along with any paint, so use these products carefully. Check the wood often as you work.

Concrete Surfaces

Here’s how to get spray paint off concrete.

What You’ll Need:

Instructions:

Fresh Spray Paint

  1. Sweep the concrete surface to remove any dirt.
  2. Wet the painted area with water.
  3. Use a stiff-bristle brush and soapy water to scrub the surface.
  4. Rinse the surface with a hose.
  5. Repeat the above steps as needed until all paint is gone.

Dry Spray Paint

  1. Sweep the concrete surface to remove any dirt.
  2. Following manufacturer instructions, apply paint stripper to the affected area.
  3. Wipe the area with a cloth to remove the paint.
  4. Continue applying paint stripper and wiping until all the paint is removed.

If you’d like to skip the chemicals, a pressure washer is a powerful and effective way to remove paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safely cleaning the concrete surface.

Tip

Clean spray paint from concrete as soon as possible. Concrete is porous, allowing paint to absorb into the surface. Once it’s had time to dry and settle into the concrete it can be harder to remove.

Need to Know

Work in a well-ventilated area when using paint strippers and wear the appropriate safety gear, including cleaning gloves, respirator and safety goggles.

Plastic Surfaces

Try the following to remove spray paint from plastic.

What You’ll Need:

Instructions:

  1. Apply the rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover to a cotton ball and apply it to the surface.
  2. Take an old toothbrush and gently scrub to lift and remove the paint.
  3. Rinse the surface with water.
  4. For tougher paint removal, create a paste of baking soda and water.
  5. Apply the paste and gently scrub the area.
  6. Rinse the surface.
  7. If needed, try a paint scraper to help remove loosened paint.

Glass and Windows

There are a few different products you can try to remove spray paint from glass and windows.

What You’ll Need:

Instructions:

Glass Cleaner

  1. Spray the glass surface or window with glass cleaner.
  2. Wipe with a clean paper towel.

Nail Polish Remover or Rubbing Alcohol

  1. Apply the nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and place the cloth over the affected area for a few minutes to help loosen the paint.
  2. Use the same rag to scrub the surface to remove the paint.
  3. With a new cloth, wipe away any excess nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol.
  4. Use glass cleaner to clean the glass or window, wiping it dry with a paper towel.

For any paint that may be left behind after trying these removal methods, use a paint scraper to get it off. Make sure the glass is wet, then hold the scraper at a 45-degree angle to the glass as you scrape, lifting it off after each stroke. Be sure to work gently and slowly to avoid scratching the glass surface.

Skin

The instructions below will show you how to get spray paint off skin.

What You’ll Need:

  • Soap
  • Water
  • Vegetable Oil or Baby Oil
  • Cotton Balls
  • Wash cloth
  • Nail brush

Instructions:

  1. Vigorously wash your hands with warm, soapy water. The sooner you can get to a sink, the easier the paint will likely be to remove.
  2. For any remaining paint or for paint that has had time to dry, use a cotton ball to apply a small amount of vegetable oil or baby oil to the paint, and gently scrub with a wash cloth or nail brush until the paint is gone.
  3. Wash hands to remove any oil residue.

Spray Painting Tips

Before starting your next painting project, consider these tips for safety and to avoid overspray cleanup.

  • Prepare the area by removing any valuables and items that you don’t want to get paint on and cover other surfaces in the area that won’t be painted. Set up drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect floors and other surrounding surfaces.
  • Use painters tape to create a protective barrier on edges, borders or areas you want to keep paint free. Make sure it firmly adheres so the paint won’t get through.
  • Wear safety gear like cleaning gloves and a respirator, and work in well-ventilated areas.
  • Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the spray paint before you begin painting.
  • Water-based spray paint is typically easier to remove than oil-based and typically comes off using gentler methods, like soap and water, as opposed to harsher chemicals.
  • Fresh overspray will likely come off easier than paint that’s had time to dry and adhere or absorb into the surface.

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