How to Safely Remove Lead Paint

A sander removes lead paint, but may not be the safest method due to toxicity.

Lead paint is found in antique or vintage paint made up until the late 1970s. The lead in paint is not hazardous unless it starts to peel, or is removed without the proper safety measures to protect health. Lead paint spores can get into the air and circulate around the house through air vents. Lead paint can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions and can be quite toxic, especially if individuals with compromised immune systems or children are exposed.

Things You'll Need

• Protective face mask
• Chemical fumes mask
• Plastic disposable gloves
• Old newspaper
• Chemical paint stripper
• Putty knife
• Plastic garbage bags
• Electric sander
• Old rag

Instructions

1. Wear a protective face mask that filters out paint spores. Choose a chemical fumes mask instead of a common dust mask, for extra protection. Wear plastic disposable gloves while working on removing lead paint. Spread old newspaper on the ground to collect any falling paint particles. Remove paint outside -- weather permitting -- for transportable painted furniture and glass items.

2. Take chemical paint stripper and apply it onto the lead paint with a paint brush. Wait for the chemical paint stripper to bubble. Choose a liquid stripping agent that entraps lead spores. Ask for the safest lead paint stripper at a hardware store, or search online for one that entraps mold spores as it oxidizes.

3. Take a scraping tool or a putty knife and scrape it against the paint so the paint lifts up in curled strips or sections. Take the strips of paint and place them in a plastic garbage bag. Keep the garbage bag open on the floor where you are working, so you can quickly deposit the paint strips inside the plastic bag. Seal the bag shut once all the paint strips are inside and deposit into a garbage can outdoors. Make sure the can has a tight fitting lid.

4. Sand these old painted pieces with an electric sander quickly, making sure to properly ventilate the entire area if working inside. Seal off the air conditioning vents, so lead mixed with sand dust does not permeate the air. Use a chemical spray for lead paint removal on objects other than wood.

5. Dampen an old rag in hot water and ring the rag dry. Run the rag over the surface of wood to wipe away dust. Flip the rag over and use the clean side, if necessary, as you wipe. Make sure the dust stays on the rag. The dampness of the rag should absorb the dust and not spread it around. Place the rag in a separate plastic bag when finished, and dispose.

References

• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: What You Should Know About Lead Based Paint in Your Home: Safety Alert: CPSC Document #5054
• Furniture Knowledge: Furniture Tips Archive