How Do I Remove Paint From a Sink?

Stainless steel sinks are popular work sinks because they won't get easily damaged when it comes to construction or do-it-yourself projects. Whether you're a painter, work in development or are around paint on the daily, then you already know how easy it is to get paint on a sink. If you're trying to clean paint from a sink, though, you want to make sure that you aren't using harsh chemicals to remove the stain.

If you need to remove paint from a kitchen sink, you have to be wary of how you are actually removing it. If you have dried bathroom sink paint or you need to remove paint from stainless steel sinks, then you don't want to use abrasive materials or techniques. This will damage the sink in the long run.

If you're trying to remove the paint, you can use solvents, though. Just make sure to test them before you apply them in a highly visible area.

When working with solvents, you must use gloves. There are different types of solvents that you can use, and they also vary in degree of toxicity and strength. You should never combine your solvents, and make sure you use the correct strength, depending on the severity of the stain.

Also, when working with solvents, open a window so that you aren't susceptible to hazardous fumes. Accidental inhalation or ingestion of solvents is highly dangerous.

When you use a solvent, you can either use a turpentine or lacquer thinner. Turpentine works well if it's your first time trying to remove the paint. Not only is it less toxic than petroleum-based chemicals, but it can remove both fresh and dried paint.

When using turpentine, take a clean rag and dampen a corner with turpentine. Then, apply the turpentine on the paint stains, using a rubbing motion to remove the stain. This will help dissolve and dislodge the paint. After you get the paint up, rinse the area and lightly cleanse it with Bon Ami and water.

You can also use lacquer thinner, which is a combination of acetone and other solvents. To use lacquer thinner, dampen a clean rag or sponge with the thinner and rub it directly on the paint to remove the stain. After you remove the paint, rinse the area with water and wash with a little bit of Bon Ami and water.

When you're done lightly cleansing the area, pat the area with clean, dry paper towels. You want to make sure that there is no residual water left behind and the area is dry. If your sink looks dull after cleaning the paint off, you can condition it with a little olive oil. Using a clean paper towel or soft cloth, add a little olive oil and buff the sink lightly. This will maintain the longevity of the sink and leave it looking less dull.

When you're trying to clean paint off of a sink, you want to make sure that you're not mixing cleaning agents or chemicals. If you do, this can cause a hazardous result. It's easier to stick to one cleaning agent or chemical so that you stay safe and also make sure that the chemical won't damage the sink.