How To Remove Spray Paint From Glass

The best thing about spray paint is that it’s easy for anyone to use. But, unfortunately, it’s also very easy to make a blunder while spray painting. We’re not just talking about paint globs or uneven coats that lead to runs, but also overspray and graffiti that can make your glass look messy. 

You can remove spray paint from glass by using products containing chemicals like rubbing alcohol, mineral spirits, and acetone. Using non-chemical methods like razors or steel wool is much safer and environmentally friendly. Working in a well-ventilated area is also recommended.

Removing spray paint from the glass is easy if you do it correctly. Let’s look at how you should prep your glass and the various ways with which you can get rid of paint marks. We’ll also include some tips to make this chore easier for you. 

How to Remove Spray Paint from Glass

It can be quite challenging to remove paint from the glass surface if you don’t know the type of glass you have and the kind of paint that has affected your glass. So try to get as much information as possible before starting your project. 

Following are some ways to remove spray paint without damaging your glass:  

Using Chemical Products

You can use several chemicals to remove spray paint. These include:

Acetone

Acetone is highly suitable for removing paint from frosted glass and mirrors. Whether it’s a bit of overspray or a crafty blunder, you can use acetone products like lacquer thinner, paint thinner, or nail polish remover to correct your mistake. Here’s how you can do this:

1. Dip a clean rag in acetone and apply it to the dried paint.

2. Scrub it away until the paint starts to loosen.  

3. Soak a clean microfiber cloth in warm water and wipe away the loosened paint and excess acetone solution. 

4. Use a glass cleaner or warm soapy water to clean the glass.

5. Wipe it dry using a dry cloth or paper towel.  

Don’t use acetone on fiberglass as it can damage the protective outer covering of fiberglass.

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol can be used to clean spray paint from glass; however, make sure that you use rubbing alcohol that’s 90% or at least 70% concentrated. Here’s what you need to do:

1. First, take a microfiber cloth and soak it in rubbing alcohol.

2. Keep applying it for a few minutes until the hardened paint loosens.

3. Next, rub the alcohol-soaked cloth vigorously to remove paint spots.

4. Once the paint is removed, clean the glass with a glass cleaner or warm soapy water.

5. Finally, use a paper towel to dry the glass.

Mineral Spirits

This inexpensive petroleum distillate works effectively to remove paint. However, mineral spirits only work on fresh paint, which makes them an ideal solution for the initial cleanup.  

1. Dip a clean cloth or a cotton ball in mineral spirits.

2. Apply it to the glass until the paint softens.

3. Scrub vigorously with the wet cloth to remove paint stains.

4. Once the glass is clean, wash it with warm soapy water.

5. Dry it with a paper towel.

Turpentine

According to glass door manufacturers, turpentine is an excellent solvent for removing paint and glue residue from glass. Remember to dispose of your cleaning supplies safely after using turpentine. 

1. Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in turpentine.

2. Apply it to the paint stains for a couple of minutes until they soften.

3. Use glass cleaner or warm soapy water to wash the glass.

4. Dry your glass with a paper towel. 

Using Chemical-Free Products

If you want to avoid using chemical products, then the following chemical-free products are a good option:

White Vinegar

White vinegar works effectively to dissolve paint stains from not only glass but metal as well. The acid in the vinegar makes it a great paintbrush cleaner. It’s also safe to use on fiberglass. For this procedure, you’re going to need:

• 1 cup white vinegar
  
• 1 gallon of warm water
  
• Two tablespoons of dish soap

Now, let’s see how you should go about cleaning spray paint with white vinegar:

1. Pour vinegar into a microwave-safe dish and bring it to boil in the microwave.

2. Soak a clean cloth in this hot vinegar carefully.

3. Press the cloth on the hardened paint spots for a couple of minutes.

4. Scrub vigorously with this cloth to remove the paint.

5. Next, add dish soap to the bucket of warm water.

6. Wash the glass with a microfiber cloth dipped in this soapy water.

7. Dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.  

Pressure washer

A pressure washer is an effective and safe way to get paint off the glass windows and your driveway and garage floor. However, keep the water pressure low to avoid damaging the window frame or breaking the glass. 

Check the water pressure and adjust accordingly before spraying on your glass. Use a wide-angle fan spray nozzle for this purpose. Keeping the water spray at a 45-degree angle, move the hose continuously to get rid of the spray paint.

Razor Blade

If there are still some paint spots left after using the above solvents, you can use a razor blade or a paint scrapper to remove them. Keep the blade at a 45-degree angle while scraping the paint. 

Be sure to keep the glass wet when using the blade to protect the glass from any damage. If you hear any gritty or scratching sounds while using the blade, replace it with a new one, as your old blade could be damaged or dull. Wash and dry the glass after removing all the paint spots.     

Try to catch the paint chips in a disposable plastic container filled with soapy water by placing them underneath your window. Leave the container for a few days until the soapy water evaporates. Follow the paint disposal guidelines for your area when disposing of these containers.      

Can You Use Steel Wool?

Fine steel wool that won’t damage or scratch the glass can be used to remove spray paint.

1. First, lubricate the glass with warm soapy water to prevent scratches.

2. Then, scrub gently until the paint stains disappear.  

3. Use a microfiber cleaning cloth and warm soapy water to clean the glass.

4. Lastly, dry it with paper towels. 

How to Prep Before Starting

Taking some time to prepare for your project will help you save time and energy in the long run. Before starting to remove spray paint from your glass:

• Make sure you know the type of glass you’re cleaning and gather cleaning supplies accordingly.

• If you’re using strong solvents, then be sure to wear appropriate protective gear such as eye protection, a mask, and rubber gloves.

• Work in a well-ventilated area, so you don’t inhale harmful fumes.

• Spread a plastic drop cloth on the floor to protect it from stains. 

Safety Tips 

Solvents like turpentine are highly flammable. That’s why it’s crucial to dispose of them properly to avoid fire hazards. For example, avoid throwing cleaning cloths or cotton balls with highly volatile solvents in the trash, as they could ignite spontaneously.   

Protecting your eyes and skin from harmful chemicals is vital, as direct contact could result in rashes and infection. Make sure you wear rubber gloves and protective eyewear when using such chemicals.