How to Safely Remove Paint or Glue From Plastics

How to Safely Remove Paint or Glue From Plastics
Written By
Ryan Lawrence
Ryan Lawrence
Published: Mar 24, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

When it comes to removing paint or glue from plastics, there is a delicate balance between breaking down the adhesive chemicals and not damaging the very surface you are trying to save.

Things You Will Need

  • Olive oil
  • Turpentine
  • Rags
  • Plastic putty knife
  • Mineral spirits

Removing paint or glue from plastic

  1. Dampen a rag with turpentine. Apply the turpentine to the glue or paint that you want to remove, and allow it to soak for two minutes.

  2. Wipe away the glue or paint using a clean, dry rag. If any glue or paint remains on the plastic, dampen a new rag with mineral spirits. Apply the spirits to the remaining glue or paint, and allow it to soak for twenty seconds.

  3. Scrape away the paint using a plastic putty knife. Wrap a rag around the plastic knife to act as a buffer between the plastic surface and the putty knife. This will help prevent unintentional scratches and abrasions.

  4. Wipe away any mineral spirits that have not evaporated with a fresh, clean, dry rag.

The Drip Cap

  • Paint and glue are similar in that they both contain powerful adhesives formulated to help them bond to hard, non-porous surfaces.
  • Apply the turpentine to the glue or paint that you want to remove, and allow it to soak for two minutes.

Photo Credits

olive oil in bottle image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com

olive oil in bottle image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com

Ryan Lawrence

Ryan Lawrence is a freelance writer based in Boulder, Colorado. He has been writing professionally since 1999. He has 10 years of experience as a professional painting contractor. Lawrence writes for High Class Blogs and Yodle. He has a…

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