How to Clean a Paint Spill

One wrong step and the gallon of paint you intended for the walls ends up on the floor. A paint spill can quickly turn your DIY into a disaster. Improper cleaning techniques can often cause permanent damage and you may just tell yourself you can live with the paint spill – choosing to cover it with an area rug instead of attempting to clean it. Instead of finessing your home decorating skills, follow these expert tips to effectively clean a paint spill.

What You’ll Need

• Cotton Cloths

• Putty Knife

• Scouring Pad

• Bucket of Water

• Latex Paint Remover

Fresh Paint Spill

If the paint is still fresh use clean, cotton cloths to absorb the paint. Blot paint into the cloth and avoid wiping as you’ll likely spread it around more than you'll be able to wipe it up. After the fresh paint is wiped up you may notice a chalky residue and some tint left behind. Clean the area with a latex paint remover to completely remove paint residues.

Dried Paint

Paint splatters happen to the best of us so it’s not uncommon to notice dried drops of paint after you’ve finished. Spray the area with Motsenbocker’s Lift Off Latex Paint Remover. Allow Lift Off to sit for 60 seconds then wipe the surface clean. Some surfaces may require a little agitation. A putty knife or scouring pad can be used if the surface allows – pay close attention not to scratch delicate surfaces.

Paint thinners and solvent should be avoided especially when working on wood or lament. These harsh chemicals can often strip away finishes and remove wood stains causing permanent damage.

Time to Repaint

We’re often asked about cleaning a paint spill or drop that lands on a painted baseboard, molding, or other painted surface. Because our Latex Paint Remover is designed to remove paint it is likely that the underlying surface paint will be removed in the process of cleaning the paint spill. In this case we suggest sanding down the spill touching up or repainting the area.

Check out this guide on how to paint a room for more pro painting tips!