How can I clean up paint that fell on my carpet from my DIY project?
Mistakes happen. We are not perfect. Even when we do our best to cover everything, there is still a slight chance of our imperfectionism to be unveiled.
If you are reading this, you may have just had a minor accident occur. QUICKLY, wet the area with some water and go put something over it to stop the drying process (plastic wrap will work).
Okay, now let's determine what kind of paint you're using. In today's world, 9 times out of 10 you will be using a form of acrylic paint, whether it be 100% acrylic, styrene-acrylic, or vinyl-acrylic.
In these cases, you will be using a soap and water cleanable product. Here are the things you should have with you when cleaning up the spill:
Water
Sponge
Distilled Vinegar (if water alone is not removing all of the paint)
Clean rags or paper towels (non-dyed)
Shop Vac
Step 1:
Remove your plastic wrap and wet the area with your sponge and water. Once the entire area is wet and the paint is diluted, you can start extracting the paint from the carpet. Use your rags or towels and start dabbing away at the paint (VERY IMPORTANT TO DAB AND NOT SCRUB, you want to maintain the pile in the carpet and not untwist it). You want to remove as much paint as possible during this process so keep repeating with clean water and rags.
Step 2:
When you have successfully removed all or most of the paint, vacuum the area with your Shop Vac to remove most of the water.
Step 3:
If you feel it is necessary, you can put your distilled vinegar on a rag and dab (AGAIN: VERY IMPORTANT TO DAB AND NOT SCRUB, you want to maintain the pile in the carpet and not untwist it). Repeat step 1 & 2 and allow to dry.
When you have successfully cleaned up your paint spill, raise your arms in victory.
If you do not feel comfortable with cleaning up the paint spill yourself, call a professional carpet cleaning service. I have used Carpet Daddy in my own home and was pleased with the experience.
