How to Clean Paint of Your Carpet

Accidentally spilled paint on your carpet? Don’t panic! Removing paint stains from a carpet is possible with the right tools, techniques, and a bit of patience. Whether it’s oil-based paint or water-based (latex) paint, here’s how to clean it effectively.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Paint

Before starting, check the paint can label to see whether your paint is:

• Oil-based paint – Tougher to remove, water-resistant.
  
• Water (latex)-based paint – Easier to clean, dissolves in water.
  

If unsure, you can contact the paint brand or the store where you bought it.

Step 2: Remove Wet Paint Immediately

Wet paint is much easier to clean than dry paint.

1. Blot, don’t rub: Use a thick towel or cloth to absorb the paint gently.
   
2. Avoid pushing paint deeper: Press lightly to lift it off the fibers.
   
3. Repeat until most of the paint transfers to the towel.

Step 3: Removing Oil-Based Paint from Carpet

“Oil-based paint is non-polar and does not dissolve in water, so water alone won’t help.”

For Wet Oil-Based Paint:

• Use a towel to blot and absorb the paint.
• Avoid rubbing to prevent it from spreading.

For Dry Oil-Based Paint:

1. Scrape gently with a utility knife to remove hardened paint.
2. Vacuum to collect any debris.
3. Apply a solvent like paint thinner, carpet cleaner, or a dedicated paint remover.
4. Blot the softened paint with a towel until the stain fades.
5. Repeat as needed for stubborn stains.

Step 4: Removing Water (Latex) Paint from Carpet

Water-based paint is much easier to remove:

1. Pour warm water directly on the stain.
2. Add mild soap or detergent to the spot.
3. Scrub gently with a soft brush until the paint lifts.
4. Blot dry with a clean towel.
   

Step 5: Safety Precautions

• Keep children and pets away while cleaning.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate fumes, especially for oil-based solvents.
• Wear gloves and a mask to protect skin and lungs from irritation.

Need Professional Help?

If the paint stains are too stubborn to remove or you don’t want to risk damaging your carpet, consider hiring a professional painting company like us.
We can guide you or handle the cleaning safely for you.