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How to Get Acrylic Paint Out of Clothes

Acrylic paint is great but can leave permanent paint stains in clothing. Follow our fabric paint removal tips to learn how to remove acrylic paint from fabric and clothes.

More from Clorox experts

Acrylic paint stains on fabric can be a real dilemma. While wet, acrylic paint is water soluble, but once dried, it becomes permanently embedded. If you can get to that paint dribble on your shirt while it’s still wet, these steps can help work the stain out. 

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What you need

Steps to remove paint from clothing

  1. 1

    Remove excess paint

    Immediately scrape away wet paint. It’s best to do this before the paint has a chance to dry into the fabric.

  2. 2

    Rinse the stain

    Try to rinse out the paint by running warm water through the back of the stain. This prevents paint from seeping deeper into the fabric.

  3. 3

    Apply Clorox 2® for Colors

    Apply Clorox 2® for Colors liquid directly to the stain, and let it soak for 10 minutes.

  4. 4

    Rub it in

    Gently work the Clorox 2® for Colors into the stain, making sure not to let it dry out.

  5. 5

    Machine wash

    If the fabric has color or spandex, wash it in the warmest water recommended using detergent and Clorox 2® for Colors.

    If the item is white and bleach-safe, wash in the hottest water recommended on the care label using a good laundry detergent and ⅓ cup Clorox® Disinfecting Bleach.

    Never bleach wool, silk, leather or spandex.