Everyone knows kids are naturally messy and kids with art supplies in their hands can be disastrous for their clothing. Parents and caregivers can relax and enjoy their little kid’s art projects with these tips to help rescue the outfit and child with their new art supply stains.
As with all little emergencies, it is important to know what to do and how to address the problem as soon as possible. It is a good idea to know the type of art supply the child is working with and most will have directions on how to best remove the stain. If you do not know what the stain is or how to remove it, the next best move is to have the item professionally cleaned. In dealing with basic art supplies, here are the top 3 tips for stain removal. From, most clothing and tips to remove the art supply from the child’s skin.
Water-Based Paints Dissolve In Water
If the paint from your kid’s art is wet, remove as much as possible by scraping it off with a spoon or a dull knife. Then, make a detergent and water mix. Be sure to gently rub into the stain and rinse. Repeat until the stain is removed. Is the paint from your kid’s art is dry? Then, brush off as much paint as possible with a bristled brush. Next, apply soapy water or dab the cloth with varnish to soften up the stain and scrape off any paint possible. Then, use a detergent and water mix to finish removing the stain. If some of the stain remains, blot with a touch of nail polish remover on a dry cloth and rinse well (1). To remove water dissolvable paints from the skin follow these steps. 1) Use soap and water. 2) Let it dry flake it off. 3) Use a little rubbing alcohol.
Oil-Based Paints Are More Difficult To Remove
If the paint is wet, scrape off as much as possible and rinse well. Placing the fabric stain-side down on a dry absorbent cloth, sponge the back of the fabric with a touch of turpentine. Or, mineral spirits until the stain disappears. Keep an eye on the colors so they do not run and change out the absorbent cloth when it becomes wet. If the paint is dry, brush off as much as possible with a bristled brush. And, when the stain has loosened, then follow the same directions with turpentine or mineral spirits. If you have access to the paint container, look at the manufacturer’s preferred stain removal method. To remove oil-based paints from the skin, use the same technique as the water-based paints because these paints do not bond with the skin.
Glue Stains
Glue stains from water-based glue, like Elmer’s, can be soaked in warm water for a couple of hours to soften, scrape off any access, and wash as usual. Other adhesive stains can be removed by soaking the fabric with mineral spirits, nail polish remover, or glue thinner for several hours to soften. You always want to check the fabric in an inconspicuous place before using these solvents, and it may best be professionally cleaned to not ruin the clothing. To remove glue from skin, allow the glue to dry. Then, most will peel off easily. But if not, use soap and water for the water-based glues and the same type of solvents for other types of adhesives. If you have access to the manufacturer’s label, be sure to read how best to remove the adhesive from skin to minimize any skin irritation.