If you can, don’t let it sit, take care of it right away. Water-based and oil-based paints can be removed if you discover a carpet stain.

Before you start painting, it would be a good idea to have the following tools within reach in preparation of a paint spill:

·        Putty knife or dull knife or old credit card or razorblade

·        Paper towels

·        White cotton rags

·        Warm water

·        Dishwashing Liquid

·        Paint solvent or turpentine

·        Spray bottle

·        Soft bristled brush

·        Vacuum

With these things nearby, you will be ready to clean up a paint spill!

If the paint is still wet:

• Use a knife or credit card to lift away the wet paint. Don’t use rags or paper towels at this point to rub thinking you’re wiping the paint off the carpet. You’re actually making the spill worse because the paint will deepen into the carpet.
• Now get the rags or paper towels to blot (lightly) the remaining paint. Keep blotting until the paint is gone.
• If the paint is oil-based, use white rags with a dabs of paint solvent or turpentine and blot away the stain.
• If you like, wet white rags and dab the where the paint spilled to be sure it’s cleaned up. This is a personal preference.

If the paint has dried:

• Use the edge of a putty knife or razor blade to loosen up the dried paint and gently scrape at the carpet stain.
• If the paint is oil-based, after loosening the paint as outlined above, use steam to moisten the paint spill and lightly blot the spot with paper towels.
• Toss away any paint you have removed and vacuum when you are finished and when the area is dry.
• If the dried paint is stubborn or for a grease stain.
• Use the dishwashing liquid and hot water in a spray bottle.
• Spray directly on the stain then gently blot away the stain. Note: Don’t rub.
• If the dried paint is really bad, don’t panic. The spot probably needs more heat. A clothes steamer will do the trick, but don’t place it directly on the carpet.
• If you are going to use a solvent or turpentine, test its use on an area that is hidden away.

If you partner with the professional Hamilton painters at Peninsula Painting, their team will prep the room for painting so you won’t even have to think about paint spills and carpet stains. However, if you would like to do your own painting, these steps will help you take care of any accidents!

Call Peninsula Painting for your free quote at 905-570-3158 and let them transform your home with a stroke of excellence or complete their online form to get started.