How to Get Fingernail Polish Out of a Bathroom Sink

Fingernail polish stains require some time and attention to avoid further staining.

The bathroom sink is a natural landing area for fingernail polish, creating colorful and noticeable stains. Acetone is a chemical used in fingernail polish remover and is effective in removing fingernail polish stains on porcelain, tile, carpets and fabrics. Acetone is also available independently from hardware stores. Exercise care when using fingernail polish remover to avoid spreading the stain. The cleaning process requires only a small amount of time, effort and materials.

Things You'll Need

• Absorbent cloth
• Sponge
• Fingernail polish remover
• Paper towels
• Scrub pad
• Liquid detergent

Instructions

1. Place an absorbent cloth around the stain to absorb excess fingernail polish and remover from spreading during the cleaning process.

2. Moisten a sponge with fingernail polish remover and blot at the stain working from the outside toward the middle.

3. Blot the moistened stain with paper towels to absorb the excess cleaner and polish.

4. Repeat the sponging process until the stain is gone.

5. Scrub the previously stained spot with a scrub pad and liquid detergent to remove any fingernail polish residue.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the surface with bleach if any stain residue remains.

• Exercise care when using fingernail polish remover because it is very flammable.

References

• Iowa State University; Quick n' Easy Stain Removal; Janis Stone; 2009
• Michigan State University Extension; Nail Polish - Stain Removal on Carpet and Upholstery; Thomas G. Coon; June 2008