If you happen to spill acrylic paint on your favorite shirt, don't toss it - treat it.
For many budding creative souls, acrylic paint is the medium of choice. This popular material can be safely used by almost any age group and is commonly used for art, home d cor and craft projects. However, it seems that no matter how many precautions are taken, a bit of paint often finds its way onto a trouser leg or a shirt sleeve. Since paint is essentially a coloring agent, it does present a bit of a laundry challenge. However, a few common household items can remove acrylic paint from fabric. As with most types of stain removal, it is best to clean the stain while it is still fresh.
Instructions
1. Remove as much paint as possible. Dab wet paint with a dry paper towel, absorbing as much of the offending material as possible. Scrape away dry paint with the edge of a spoon or a butter knife by rubbing the edge of the utensil gently against the grain of the fabric.
2. Turn the stained garment inside out. Run hot water over the painted area from the backside of the garment. The pressure from the water will loosen some of the particles of paint.
3. Wring the garment gently to remove any excess water and turn the fabric so that the stained area is facing out and upward.
4. Match your solvent to the material. Solvents are chemicals that can break down the bonds of the paint, dissolving it and effectively removing it from the fabric. The most effective solvent will depend on the type of fabric being treated. You want to remove the paint without damaging the fibers. For delicate fabrics, such as rayon or silk, use liquid laundry detergent. For sturdier fabrics, choose something a bit stronger. Distilled white vinegar is safe to use on many fibers, including synthetics such as acetate and natural fibers such as wool. Isopropyl alcohol can be safely applied to cotton, cotton blends and polyester. Household ammonia is a good general-purpose solvent, but it must be diluted prior to use (1/4 cup ammonia to 1 quart of water). Hydrogen peroxide may also work as a solvent, but use it only on light-colored garments as it can cause fabrics to fade.
5. Test your chosen solvent by applying it in an inconspicuous area before making a more general application. Dip the end of a cotton swab into the solvent of your choice and rub it lightly against an inner seam. Rinse the treated area and wait for it to dry. If there is no color change, it is safe to apply the solvent to the stain.
6. Pour a small amount of solvent onto a clean, white cloth. Repeatedly press the cloth against the stain, working from the outside edges toward the center. When the discolored portion of the fabric has been thoroughly saturated, rub the remaining stain gently with an old toothbrush and then return to blotting. Alternate scrubbing with blotting until the paint is gone. If, after several applications, you see no progress, you may need to try a different solvent. Once the paint has been removed, launder the fabric as usual or sponge with warm water to remove all traces of chemical treatment.
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