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How to Get Latex Paint Stains Out

Water-based — soap and water while wet; alcohol once dried.

Quick answer

Fresh Latex Paint on Cotton

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Scrape off excess paint.
  2. Flush with running water from the back of the stain.
  3. Mix equal parts dishwashing liquid and warm water and work it into the stain.
  4. Pretreat and launder per the care label.

Don’t do this

  • Treat while the paint is still wet — dried latex is far harder to remove.

Sources: University of Georgia Extension; HowStuffWorks

For dried stains or other materials, use the lookup tool below.

Look up Latex Paint on your material

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Latex Paint on specific materials

Latex Paint on CottonFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on LinenFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on PolyesterFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on NylonFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on SilkFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on WoolFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on DenimFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on LeatherFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on SuedeFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on Upholstery fabricFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on Carpet/rugFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on WoodFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on Stainless steelFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on Stone/marbleFresh & dried steps Latex Paint on Plastic/laminateFresh & dried steps

Frequently asked questions

Wet vs dried latex paint?

Wet: flush with water and dish soap immediately. Dried: sponge with rubbing alcohol to soften it, then wash.

Can dried latex paint come out?

Sometimes with rubbing alcohol, but fully cured latex may be permanent — treat it while wet whenever possible.

Safety rules for every treatment
  • Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
  • Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
  • Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
  • Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
  • Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
  • Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
  • Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
  • Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
  • Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
  • When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.

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