8 Ways To Remove Paint From Windows - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Home and Garden
• Housekeeping
• Cleaning
• Window Cleaning

The 9 Best Ways to Get Paint off of Window Glass Download Article Try these easy DIYs to get rid of wet or dry paint marks Explore this Article IN THIS ARTICLE 1 Scrub the glass with a warm vinegar solution. 2 Scrape off excess paint with a razor blade. 3 Try scrubbing fresh paint with soapy water. 4 Buff dried paint away with soapy water and fine steel wool. 5 Dissolve water-based paint with rubbing alcohol. 6 Lift dry paint with acetone nail polish remover. 7 Wipe flecks of fresh paint with mineral spirits. 8 Use turpentine on slightly-dried paint marks. 9 Apply paint stripper to remove dry paint from window frames + Show 6 more... - Show less... Other Sections Questions & Answers Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Ben Barlow and Hunter Rising

Last Updated: October 17, 2023 References

Download Article X

This article was co-authored by Ben Barlow and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Ben Barlow is a Window Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of Barlow Window Bros based in Provo, Utah. With over six years of industry experience, Ben specializes in window and gutter cleaning, power washing, and Christmas light installation. He received his degree from Brigham Young University. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 635,945 times.

Did you accidentally get some paint on your window pane during your latest renovations? Paint splatters are really common even if you protect the surface, but you probably already have some common products at home that will make the marks disappear. No matter what type of paint you used, we have multiple solutions that will get the job done. Keep reading to find out what products work best on your window panes or frames so they’re clean and paint-free.

Things You Should Know

• Warm distilled white vinegar in your microwave and wet a cloth with it. Hold the cloth against the paint marks for a few minutes before scrubbing them away.
• Wet your window with soapy water, and hold a razor blade at an angle against the glass. Push the blade in long, straight strokes to scrape the paint away.
• Soak a clean rag in warm soapy water and press it against the paint. Scrub the paint with the cloth or plastic putty knife.

Steps

1

Scrub the glass with a warm vinegar solution.

Download Article

1. White vinegar strips any type of dried paint without using harsh chemicals. Distilled white vinegar acts as a natural paint solvent, and you probably already have it at home. As the vinegar soaks in, it loosens the paint’s bond to your window so it wipes away easily.[1]
   • Heat 1 cup (240 ml) of white vinegar in your microwave for about 4 minutes or until it comes to a boil.
   • Put on thick rubber gloves and dip a clean rag into the white vinegar.
   • Press the wet cloth against the paint stains, and scrub them off of your window.
   • Wipe leftover paint and vinegar from your window with soapy water and a clean cloth.
   • Want to get some additional cleaning done? Use this opportunity to also wipe your microwave since the vinegar steam will make baked-on foods easier to clean up.
Advertisement

2

Scrape off excess paint with a razor blade.

Download Article

1. A sharp razor blade easily lifts up dried latex paint from the glass. Because a sharp razor blade sits flush against the glass, you’re able to work it under dried paint. New razors with a long, flat blade work better than older razors with dents or nicks because they’re less likely to leave scratches. Just work carefully across your window so you don’t leave any other marks on your window.[2]
   • Wet the window with soapy water to help lubricate the surface.
   • Hold the razor at a 45-degree angle to the window pane.
   • Apply firm pressure and push the blade in a smooth, slow motion toward the paint to make it lift off of the surface. Try to remove the paint so it comes away in a single piece.
   • Avoid moving the blade back and forth since it’s more likely to etch into the glass.

3

Try scrubbing fresh paint with soapy water.

Download Article

1. Dish soap cuts through water-based paints that are still wet on the surface. If you just finished painting and notice specks on your window, dish soap may be enough to remove the paint if you act quickly. Soapy water works best for acrylics or latex paint since they’re water-based and easier to lift up.[3]
   • Fill a bucket with warm water and 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of dish soap.
   • Soak a clean rag in the soapy water and hold it against the paint.
   • Scrub the paint using circular motions to remove it from the glass.
   • Alternatively, try using a mixture of warm water and baby shampoo. Use a soft cloth or plastic putty knife to help scrape up any paint still on the surface.[4]
Advertisement

4

Buff dried paint away with soapy water and fine steel wool.

Download Article

1. Fine steel wool breaks apart hard paint without scratching your window. While you may be hesitant to use steel wool on your window, the grit is small enough that it doesn’t leave any abrasion marks. The steel wool catches on any specks of paint stuck on the glass while you’re scrubbing, leaving behind a clean, clear finish.[5]
   • Wet your window with soapy water to help loosen the paint and lubricate the surface so you’re less likely to leave marks.
   • Wet #0000 steel wool with warm water.
   • Apply gentle pressure and scrub your window in circular motions to remove the paint residue.
   • Wipe the soapy water off with a squeegee.

5

Dissolve water-based paint with rubbing alcohol.

Download Article

1. Rubbing alcohol naturally breaks down acrylic and latex paints. While rubbing alcohol doesn’t work well for oil-based paints, it will start lifting water-based paint marks within a few minutes. Use the highest concentration of rubbing alcohol so it’s the most effective at removing the paint from your windows.[6]
   • Wet a clean cloth, toothbrush, or cotton swab with rubbing alcohol.
   • Gently scrub the paint using circular motions to lift it up.
   • Wipe the glass with standard glass cleaner to remove residual alcohol and paint.
Advertisement

6

Lift dry paint with acetone nail polish remover.

Download Article

1. Acetone acts as a solvent for any type of wet or dry paint. While acetone is a type of chemical paint remover, it’s less aggressive than other commercial solvents. If you have some nail polish remover at home already, then grab it to clean your windows.[7] Just be aware that acetone fumes can cause eye and lung irritation, so wear safety glasses and a face mask to reduce your exposure.[8]
   • Soak a clean rag or cotton ball in acetone and press it against the paint on your window.
   • Let the acetone soak into the paint for 2–3 minutes to let it dissolve.
   • Wipe the paint and leftover acetone away with a clean, dry cloth.
   • Keep your rag away from heat and flames because acetone is highly flammable.

7

Wipe flecks of fresh paint with mineral spirits.

Download Article

1. Mineral spirits thin wet paint so it’s easier to remove. Mineral spirits are more affordable and not as harsh as other paint thinners, so it’s perfect if you’re only cleaning up small paint marks. Because mineral spirits only dissolve fresh paint, use it if you just finished and the drops are still wet.[9]
   • Put on safety glasses, a face mask, and rubber gloves to avoid any irritation or contact with the mineral spirits.
   • Dampen a clean rag with your mineral spirits.
   • Hold the damp rag over the paint marks for 2–3 minutes to dissolve the paint.
   • Wipe the surface with a clean corner of the cloth to remove the paint marks.
   • You can buy mineral spirits at your local home improvement store.
   • Mineral spirits are flammable, so keep them away from any heat sources or open flames.[10]
Advertisement

8

Use turpentine on slightly-dried paint marks.

Download Article

1. Turpentine works great for breaking down oil- and water-based paint. Turpentine is a strong solvent usually used for cleaning paintbrushes, but it also works for cleaning paint that’s started to dry but hasn’t completely hardened yet.[11]
   • Wear safety glasses, rubber gloves, and a respirator to protect yourself from spills and fumes.
   • Wet a clean cloth with turpentine.
   • Hold the cloth against the paint marks on your window for 2–3 minutes.
   • Wipe the paint marks away with a clean cloth.

9

Apply paint stripper to remove dry paint from window frames

Download Article

1. Using paint stripper on window frames removes layers of built-up paint. Solvent-based strippers work great on both wood and metal window frames because they break down the bond that is holding the paint, making it a lot easier to scrape away. If you want to repaint a window frame, paint stripper soaks through all the old layers of paint so it’s easier to scrape away. Since using paint strippers involves harsh chemicals, don your protective gear like safety glasses, respirator, and gloves so you stay protected.[12]
   • Remove any hardware from the frame, like nails or handles.
   • Lay down a tarp beneath the window and move furniture out from underneath it.
   • Dip a paintbrush into the stripper and paint a small section of the window.
   • Let the stripper saturate the surface for about 20 minutes. Read the manufacturer’s instructions since some brands may have different instructions about timing.
   • Use a plastic or metal scraper to remove as much of the treated paint as you can.
   • Scrape paint out of creases and depressions with a wire brush. Use gentle motions so you don’t damage the surface.
   • Continue applying the stripper and scraping the paint until you finish the entire frame.
   • Wipe down the wood with a clean, wet rag.
   • Sand the window pane with 220-grit sandpaper to work away any small scrapes and remove any tiny flecks of paint that remain.
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question Which method woks best on hurricane impact windows? Community Answer Whether you have a lot of paint or a little, you can use a scraper to loosen the paint from the glass. Use one that takes a single-edge razor blade, which can be bought for a few dollars at a general or hardware store. Remember to keep the blade as flat as possible against the glass. Take special care when scraping around the edge of the window where the frame is -- you don't want to cut the frame or the caulk that goes between the pane of glass and the frame. When you have loosened all the paint, you can remove the loose bits by wiping with a dry cloth. Then clean all the window panes with a little glass cleaner such as Windex and finish off with a dry lint-free cloth. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 6
• Question If the paint stains become soft, it is easy to remove them. Now the question is, how do I soften the hard and stubborn paint stains from the glass? Community Answer Use a hair dryer. Heat one area at a time, then use a utility knife (box cutter) to gently remove the paint. Do NOT press too hard, or you will scratch the glass. You can also use a kitchen knife. Wipe with a soft dry cloth, then move on to the next stain. Don't forget to feel for any remaining bumps. If you detect any, remove them the same way. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
• Question How do I remove oil-based emulsion from glass? Community Answer Spray Easy-Off oven cleaner, which removes oil and paint. Do not breath the Easy-Off spray, because it's pH burns the lungs. Open all the windows and run outside for a few minutes after spaying the Easy-Off oven cleaner on the windows. Use Windex and a roll of paper towels to clean the paint and Easy-Off from the window. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 4

See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

• Avoid dripping paint onto the window glass as you paint by covering the glass with plastic held down by painter’s tape. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

• Lead-based paint is most commonly found in homes built prior to 1978, and is toxic to humans. Test your paint to see if it’s lead, and wear protective gear and coveralls while you’re removing it. Alternatively, hire a professional paint removal service to take remove the lead paint for you.[13] Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Advertisement

You Might Also Like

How toRemove Paint from Light Fixtures How toGet Tape off of Glass 9 Effective Spray Paint Removal Methods How toGet Paint off a Paint Brush How toRemove Acrylic Paint from Wood How toClean Glue from Windows Easy DIY Ways to Strip Paint from Plastic Materials How toRemove Acrylic Paint How to Remove Paint from Tile & Grout: Simple DIY Methods How to Remove Dried Paint from Clothes: Oil and Water-Based How to Remove Double-Sided Tape, According to Pro Cleaners The Best Way to Clean Windows with Vinegar and Soap 13 Ways to Remove Stickers from Glass How to Get Paint Off Vinyl Flooring Advertisement

References

1. ↑ https://artltdmag.com/how-to-remove-spray-paint-from-glass/
2. ↑ Ben Barlow. Window Cleaning Specialist. Expert Interview
3. ↑ https://www.markspainting.com/blog/diy-steps-to-remove-paint-from-glass-windows
4. ↑ https://todayshomeowner.com/windows/guides/how-to-clean-windows/
5. ↑ https://youtu.be/3T2tan_4PYI?t=21
6. ↑ https://thatpainter.com/does-rubbing-alcohol-remove-paint/
7. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/10-unusual-uses-for-acetone-at-home-578723
8. ↑ https://www.bhg.com/decorating/paint/how-tos/how-to-remove-paint-from-glass/
9. ↑ https://city.milwaukee.gov/GraffitiRemoval

More References (4)

10. ↑ https://www.solventsandpetroleum.com/uploads/6/0/3/7/60372849/mineral_spirits.pdf
11. ↑ https://city.milwaukee.gov/GraffitiRemoval
12. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-paint-from-wood/
13. ↑ https://www.epa.gov/lead/learn-about-lead

About This Article

Co-authored by: Ben Barlow Window Cleaning Specialist This article was co-authored by Ben Barlow and by wikiHow staff writer, Hunter Rising. Ben Barlow is a Window Cleaning Specialist and the Owner of Barlow Window Bros based in Provo, Utah. With over six years of industry experience, Ben specializes in window and gutter cleaning, power washing, and Christmas light installation. He received his degree from Brigham Young University. This article has been viewed 635,945 times. 7 votes - 100% Co-authors: 21 Updated: October 17, 2023 Views: 635,945 Categories: Window Cleaning Article SummaryX

To remove paint from window glass, start by heating 1 cup of white vinegar in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. Next, dip a clean rag into the warm vinegar and saturate the paint with the solution. Don't worry if the paint doesn't come off yet! Then, saturate the paint with warm, soapy water to loosen it even more and lubricate the surface. After applying the water, run a razor blade slowly over the painted surface at a 45-degree angle. Use firm pressure, scrape in one direction, and remoisten the paint from time to time with the soapy rag so you don't scratch the glass. Finish by rinsing the glass with fresh water and wiping it down with window cleaner. For tips on using chemical solvents to strip paint off window frames, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish German Portuguese Italian Russian French Chinese Indonesian Dutch Arabic Hindi Thai Korean Vietnamese Czech Japanese

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 635,945 times. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Ben Barlow Window Cleaning Specialist Co-authors: 21 Updated: October 17, 2023 Views: 635,945 100% of readers found this article helpful. 7 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote

Quizzes & Games

What Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizFinish the Phrase QuizTake QuizGuess the Lyrics From First Letters QuizTake QuizWhy Can't I Sleep QuizTake QuizAm I Smart QuizTake QuizWhat Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

How toRemove Paint from Light FixturesHow toGet Tape off of Glass9 Effective Spray Paint Removal MethodsHow toGet Paint off a Paint Brush

Featured Articles

Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality Test250+ Messages to Reassure Your Partner (For Him & Her)What Is My Favorite Color Quiz215+ Funny & Creative Personalized Vanity Plate Ideas

Trending Articles

How toMake OutHow Rare Is My Birthday QuizWhat Am I Craving QuizIs Your Personality More 6 or 7?What Should My Name Really Be QuizIs a Guy You Don't Know Well Interested in You?

Featured Articles

100+ Creative Ways to Say Good NightWhy Can't I Sleep Quiz150+ Love Paragraphs to Make Him Feel SpecialWhat Does Your Tattoo Placement Mean? Spiritual & Aesthetic Meanings19 of the Rarest Wonders from around the WorldWhat Is the Fun Scale? The 3 Types of Fun & Their Benefits

Featured Articles

What Is My Aesthetic QuizHow to Celebrate Xmas: Expert Advice on Enjoying the HolidaysHilarious Clean Jokes That’ll Make Adults & Kids LaughAm I Ready For A Relationship QuizWhy Is He Ignoring Me? 12 Possible Reasons (Plus, What to Do)A Complete Style Guide for the Gamine Kibbe Body Type

Watch Articles

How toWrap a Round GiftHow toSteam in an OvenHow to Make Plant-Based Meat: 4 Incredible RecipesHow toClean a Silver Necklace4 Easy Ways to Open a Can of SodaHow toPart Your Hair

Trending Articles

Can We Guess If You're a Cat or Dog Person?30 of the Hardest Riddles on Earth: The Harvard Riddle & BeyondWhich of the Big Three Are Your Parents? (Percy Jackson)How to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersWhat’s My Personality Based on My K-Pop Taste?What School Subject Are You?

Quizzes & Games

What Type of Hands Do I Have QuizTake QuizHow Old Do People Think I Look QuizTake QuizSabrina Carpenter Lyric QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizWhat Color Should I Paint My Nails QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Reality Check Do I Need QuizTake Quiz

• Categories
• Home and Garden
• Housekeeping
• Cleaning
• Window Cleaning

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --603