How to Remove Red Fingernail Polish From Shoes

Fingernail polish has strong adhesive properties, which can harden on shoes. Some polish removers can damage suede shoes and some leathers, so choose the least destructive, most inert chemical remover possible.

Things You'll Need

• Two or three cotton swabs
• Can of Acetone solvent, 80% strength or below (sold in paint departments / stores)
• 1 Tbsp. baking soda
• Leather shoe dye matched to your shoes (optional, not needed if proper care taken)

Instructions

1. Apply 80%-strength acetone (or lower) to the tip of a cotton swab until thoroughly saturated.

2. Place the tip of the swab directly onto the hardened fingernail polish. Make sure you don't touch the shoe's surrounding vinyl, leather, or suede. Apply in thorough, even strokes to the hardened polish only, and continue for about 30 seconds.

3. With a second cotton swab, dry and press the cotton surface firmly onto the polish mark and rotate the swab while pulling it across the fingernail polish. The polish will come off the surface of the shoe and roll onto the cotton tip.

4. Immediately dab the area with a small amount of baking soda, to quickly absorb any remaining acetone from the shoe's surface. Do this quickly so it does not discolor the leather.

5. Apply a small amount of shoe polish and wax over the area if you notice any discoloration on the shoe.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use fingernail polish remover which contains Methyl Acetate. This chemical can damage the finish of your shoe. If your shoe is composed of suede material, Methyl Acetate will permanently discolor the soft material. Use only 80%-strength (or lower) Acetone to remove fingernail polish from vinyl, leather or suede.

• Acetone can cause skin irritation and the fumes can be extremely irritating to the respiratory system. Use proper ventilation and use eye protection, as Acetone in the eyes may cause blindness. Follow the safety labels on your product packaging at all times. Keep Acetone away from pets and children.

References

• Material Safety Data Sheet - Acetone
• Acetone for Removal of Fingernail Polish