Accidents happen and toys get stained—no matter how carefully you watch your kids. Fortunately, with the right supplies and techniques, you can easily remove paint stains from their favorite playthings.
Updated 22 Jun 2023
By Jacobim Mugabe
Playtime and arts and crafts activities are a great bonding experience for parents and children, but accidents can happen. Paint stains often come out of the blue when playing with art supplies, and it can be difficult to know how to clean them without damaging toys or the environment.
Before beginning the cleaning process, make sure you gather these supplies:
When trying to remove paint stains from toys, the first step is to eliminate as much of paint as possible before attempting to clean the affected area. To do this, begin by gently scraping away the excess paint with a plastic knife or spoon. Take care not to scratch the surface of toy.
After removing as much of the paint as possible, apply a mild laundry detergent to the stained area and gently scrub with a wet sponge or soft cloth. Rinse off with clean water and repeat as necessary until stain has been removed.
If the stain remains, dip a toothbrush in a solution of white vinegar and mild dish soap and scrub the area. Allow the solution to sit on the stain for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Repeat as necessary until stain is gone.
The best way to ensure paint stains don't occur is to take preventative measures. If possible, have your kids play with non-toxic options like crayons and markers, which are easier to clean up than traditional paints. If you'll be using paints, make sure you cover any work surfaces with newspaper or plastic sheeting to protect them.
Once the painting session is over, take the time to thoroughly clean up and store the painting supplies in a safe place. Make sure you also clean off any smudges of paint on your kids' clothing and washable surfaces.
Accidents happen, but paint stains on toys don't have to permanently mar their appearance. With the right supplies and techniques, you can have those beloved playthings looking as good as new in no time.
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