- Before you attempt any paint removal method that involves a chemical solvent, such as rubbing alcohol, test the solvent on a section of the garment for colorfastness. Pick an area of the garment that is the least visible. Allow the solvent to sit on the clothing for several minutes and inspect the garment under a bright light.
- Rubbing alcohol is one of the most readily available solutions for removing dried paint from clothing. Apply the rubbing alcohol to the paint stain and scrub with an old toothbrush in light, but vigorous, circles. Start from the outside and work your way inward so as not to spread the stain further. Alcohol that is 100 proof works as a good substitute for the rubbing alcohol, as does hand sanitizer with a primary ingredient of alcohol. Keep in mind that an alcohol solution works best for latex paint. For oil-based paint, blot the trouble spot with an acetone-based nail polish remover or turpentine to soften the paint. Scrape off softened globs of paint with a knife and blot away the rest before laundering.
- Commercially available solvents for removing paint from fabric can be found at your local hardware supply store. Follow the specific directions for use on the product's label. Most commercially available paint removers work by softening the paint on fabric, which you then scrap away with a hard object, such as a knife or nail file. Usually, these solvents need to sit on the clothing for varying lengths of time to work before you can begin scraping off the paint. As with the alcohol, it is best to work from the outside in, so as not to spread the stain.
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