When confronting the problem of removing dry paint from a carpet, I often hear the customer say “but it’s only water based paint”. Whether it’s water based paint or oil based paint, dry paint can be difficult to remove without the proper tools for the job. The task also requires a little knowledge, time and patience.
In a mixing bowl add a teaspoon of a citrus or all purpose spot cleaning solution to a heaping tablespoon of hair gel. Thoroughly commix the 2 products and you now have a gelatin type spotting solution that will remain on top of the paint spot rather than running through the carpet backing. I suggest working an area no larger than a half dollar. Before starting I highly recommend watching a short, “step by step video”, for a complete understanding of the entire process.
Always remember to pre-test any spotting agent for dye stability in an inconspicuous location. Also work the spot starting from the outside and toward the center. Never rub and always blot.
Apply a moderate amount of the gel mix to the area and allow about 5 minutes of dwell time. Use a dull object such as the back edge of a spoon to begin loosening the paint with a gentle scraping motion. Dab the area with an absorbent white towel to check for any color transfer. Once color transfer has been established continue blotting with your towel and repeat the process until there is no more transfer of color.
If you had some success but some solid matter still remains apply a little more gel and keep trying. If a colored spot remains you can try blotting the area with some all purpose spotter, denatured alcohol and or lighter fluid. Again you will be blotting and checking the towel for color transfer.
It’s important to rinse the area and blot dry between trying various spot cleaners and after you no longer have any transfer of color using the hair gel. Spray the area with a mix of 6oz of water and a tablespoon of white vinegar. Again blot dry and groom the rug to restore the lay of the carpet pile.