Acrylic paint is a go-to choice for artists, DIY enthusiasts, and crafters alike. It’s affordable, versatile, and dries quickly—making it perfect for everything from canvas masterpieces to school projects. But what happens when creativity gets a little messy, and you end up with a big splash of paint on your favorite shirt?

If you’re wondering how to get acrylic paint out of clothes, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the best methods for removing both wet and dry acrylic paint from fabric using everyday household items and a bit of patience.

🧪 Why Is Acrylic Paint So Hard to Remove?

Acrylic paint is water-based while wet, but once it dries, it forms a water-resistant plastic polymer. This means it clings tightly to fabric fibers, making it tougher to clean than many other common stains. That’s why acting quickly is the best way to ensure successful removal.

Whether you’ve got a fresh drip or a stubborn, set-in splotch, we’ll show you how to handle both.

🚨 First Things First: Act Fast

Before reaching for any cleaning solution, it’s important to take a few preparatory steps:

✅ Initial Steps:

  1. Scrape off excess paint using a spoon, dull knife, or credit card.

  2. Blot—not rub—the stain with a dry cloth or paper towel to avoid spreading.

  3. Turn the garment inside out and rinse with cold water from the back side of the stain.

  4. Avoid hot water or heat sources (like the dryer) until the stain is completely gone.

💦 How to Remove Wet Acrylic Paint from Clothes

If you’re lucky enough to catch the stain before it dries, you’re in good shape. Here’s how to lift wet acrylic paint with basic supplies:

🧼 What You’ll Need:

  • Cold water

  • Dish soap or liquid laundry detergent

  • A toothbrush or soft scrub brush

  • Paper towels or clean cloths

📝 Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Rinse with cold water from the inside of the fabric to flush out as much paint as possible.

  2. Apply dish soap directly to the stain and gently massage it in with your fingers or a brush.

  3. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.

  4. Scrub gently with a toothbrush in circular motions.

  5. Rinse and repeat if necessary until the paint fades.

  6. Wash in cold water using your normal detergent.

  7. Air dry only—heat can set any leftover paint and make it permanent.

🧼 How to Remove Dried Acrylic Paint from Clothes

Dried acrylic paint is tougher, but not impossible, to remove. You’ll need a solvent to break down the hardened polymer.

🧰 Supplies Needed:

  • Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or acetone (nail polish remover)

  • Cotton balls or Q-tips

  • Toothbrush

  • Clean cloth or paper towels

  • Laundry detergent

📝 Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Lay the garment flat, with an old towel underneath to protect your surface.

  2. Dab rubbing alcohol or acetone onto the stain using a cotton ball.

  3. Let it soak for 10–20 minutes to loosen the dried paint.

  4. Gently scrub with a toothbrush to lift paint particles.

  5. Blot the stain using a clean cloth to remove excess pigment.

  6. Rinse thoroughly, then wash in warm water with detergent.

  7. Repeat if needed—persistent stains may require multiple treatments.

Note: Always spot test solvents on a hidden part of the fabric to ensure they won’t cause damage or discoloration.

🌿 Eco-Friendly or Natural Alternatives

Prefer a chemical-free method? These eco-friendly options can help with light stains:

🍋 Vinegar & Baking Soda Paste:

  • Mix 1 tablespoon baking soda with enough vinegar to form a paste.

  • Apply to the stain and let it sit for 20–30 minutes.

  • Gently scrub and rinse before laundering.

🧂 Lemon Juice & Salt:

  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the stain.

  • Sprinkle salt over it.

  • Let it sit in sunlight for 15–20 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

These methods are less aggressive and best for fresh stains or delicate garments.

✅ Do’s and Don’ts of Acrylic Paint Stain Removal

Knowing what to do—and what to avoid—can make all the difference:

✔ Do:

  • Test chemicals on a hidden fabric area.

  • Rinse thoroughly between steps.

  • Be patient—some stains take a few tries.

  • Use gloves if handling solvents.

❌ Don’t:

  • Use hot water on fresh stains.

  • Machine dry clothes until the stain is completely gone.

  • Rub aggressively; this can fray or stretch fabrics.

  • Assume one treatment is enough—stubborn stains need persistence.

👚 Special Considerations for Delicate or Dark-Colored Fabrics

Not all fabrics are created equal. Materials like silk, wool, rayon, and brightly dyed cottons require extra care.

For these fabrics:

  • Avoid harsh solvents like acetone.

  • Stick with dish soap, vinegar, or rubbing alcohol.

  • If in doubt, take it to a professional cleaner to avoid permanent damage.

🛡️ Tips to Prevent Acrylic Paint Stains

The best way to deal with paint stains is to avoid them altogether. Here’s how:

  • Wear old clothes or aprons during paint projects.

  • Cover surfaces with plastic or cloth drop cloths.

  • Keep damp cloths or paper towels nearby for quick cleanups.

  • Spray fabric protector on clothing if paint contact is likely.

Prevention saves time—and your wardrobe.

🧾 When to Call in a Professional

Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, that stubborn paint won’t budge. If you’re dealing with:

  • Expensive clothing

  • Delicate materials

  • Large or deeply set stains

…it might be time to contact a professional dry cleaner with stain-removal experience. Many cleaners offer specialized stain treatments and may have better luck removing dried acrylic paint safely.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can vinegar remove acrylic paint from clothes?

A: Vinegar can help with fresh, light stains, especially when combined with baking soda, but it’s not powerful enough for dried or stubborn paint.

Q: What if the clothes went through the dryer already?

A: Heat sets paint, making it much harder to remove. You may need stronger solvents and multiple treatments—or professional help.

Q: Does acetone ruin fabric?

A: Acetone can discolor or weaken some fabrics. Always do a patch test and avoid using it on delicate or synthetic materials.

Q: Can you use these methods on jeans?

A: Yes, jeans are durable and respond well to dish soap, alcohol, and scrubbing. Just test dark denim for colorfastness.

🧺 Final Thoughts

Learning how to get acrylic paint out of clothes doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right approach and a little elbow grease, you can save your stained shirt, jeans, or even a delicate blouse from being tossed in the trash.

To recap:

  • Act quickly for wet paint.

  • Use dish soap, alcohol, or acetone based on the stain’s severity.

  • Be patient—repeat treatments are common.

  • When in doubt, call in the pros.

With these tips, you can embrace your creative side without sacrificing your wardrobe!