How to Remove Holiday Paint Off of Windows

Don't let the prospect of cleanup deter you from decorating your windows for the holidays.

Painting windows for the holidays is enjoyable and festive, but when the celebration is over, removing the decorations may not seem nearly as entertaining. Don't let the prospect of cleaning the windows spoil your celebration because removing holiday paint isn't as difficult as it may appear. Stock up on plenty of rags and paper towels before getting started.

Things You'll Need

• Rags
• Paper towels
• Newspaper
• Sponges
• Spray bottle
• Razor or old credit card
• Paint scraper

Instructions

1. Lay a thick layer of rags, paper towels or newspaper on the windowsill or the floor underneath the window to catch any drips. Remove curtains or tie them up to keep them safely out of the way.

2. Moisten tempera paint with a damp rag or sponge, or mist it lightly with a spray bottle. Give the water a few seconds to soften the paint, and wash the paint off with plenty of rags or paper towels and warm water. You may need to spray stubborn spots more than once.

3. Spray acrylic paint lightly or moisten it with a damp cloth or sponge. Once the paint has softened, peel the paint off with a razor or the edge of an old credit card.

4. Moisten house paint that has been used to decorate windows, and scrape the paint off with a large paint scraper. House paint is more difficult to remove and will require more labor.

5. Wash the window according to your preference, using window cleaner and soft rags.

References

• Window Painting: Decorative Window Painting Tips
• The Window Woman: Questions & Answers About Painting on Windows