How To Remove Paint From Porcelain

Porcelain can be found almost anywhere in your home. Porcelain is not just found in sinks, but also in certain tiles. If you are wondering how to get your porcelain sparkling by removing the paint, there are certain methods you can use. Paint on porcelain can be taken off by using denatured alcohol and an old rag. But, this may not always do the trick. Continue reading to learn about some other methods you can use to remove paint from porcelain.

Methods for Removing Paint From Porcelain

Always make your safety a priority when taking on any type of project inside or outside your home. This really applies to the use of chemicals. Before we discuss different methods to get rid of paint from porcelain, don’t forget to protect your skin by wearing the appropriate gloves and safety goggles.

Removing Oil-Based & Water-Based Paint

If you are dealing with water-based and oil-based paints, here are some ways you can eliminate them safely.

The best way to eliminate these paints is by using a paint stripper. You can easily purchase a paint stripper designed just for oil and water-based paints. For the most part, you should be able to simply wipe it off using a rag. But, other times, you may need to actually scrub these areas to get the paint off. Avoid using a metal scraper to not cause damage to the porcelain. Instead, aim for a plastic or rubber scraper.

Removing Spray Paint & Enamel Paint

Spray paint can also be removed from porcelain by using hairspray. Hairspray is handy because it contains alcohol that can easily disintegrate the paint, making it very simple for you to wipe off. If you don’t have hairspray lying around, try nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol.

If you are trying to eliminate enamel paint, you can use a paint remover designed to eliminate enamel. It can be sprayed directly on the paint or onto a cloth first. Prior to wiping the paint off, allow the spray to sit for several minutes.

Removing Latex Paint & Acrylic Paint 

Latex paint can be removed the same way oil and wet-based paints are, using denatured alcohol and a rag. You are probably also going to need an old toothbrush to scrub away the rest of the paint.

Acrylic paints only require a rubber or plastic scraper to help chip away the paint from the porcelain. If this doesn’t do the trick, you may also need to use denatured alcohol to break up the paint before scrubbing it off.

Removing Dried Paint

If you are dealing with dried paint on your porcelain surfaces, you can try using a paint stripper to remove the paint so you don’t cause any damage to the surface itself. You can then scrub it using a plastic scraper and a rag to wipe away any remnants.

These methods are all very helpful. But what if you are trying to remove paint stains that remain after the actual paint has been removed from the porcelain? The best way to eliminate paint stains is to use a toothbrush, vinegar, or dawn dishwashing liquid. Stains may not come off immediately but, instead, slowly diminish over time.