How To Remove Tempera Paint Stain From Washable Fabrics

February 16, 2023

Tempera paint is a popular choice for children's arts and crafts projects, thanks to its non-toxic and washable formula. However, even with its washable properties, tempera paint stains can still pose a challenge when they find their way onto clothing or other fabrics. If you're a parent or teacher who's dealt with tempera paint stains, you know just how tricky they can be to remove. But don't worry - with the right tools and techniques, you can tackle those stubborn stains and get your fabrics looking as good as new. In this article, we'll explore some effective methods for removing tempera paint stains from washable fabrics.

COLOR

Varies (Depends on shade)

APPEARANCE

These stains may appear as a colorful mark on the fabric and could be slightly sticky or dry. They may also have a paint-like or chemical smell.

WATER TEMP

Cold (65° to 75°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Cold water helps to prevent the paint from setting and spreading.

The Science Behind Tempera Paint Stains

Tempera paint stains clothes because it contains pigments that are suspended in a water-based solution. When the paint comes into contact with fabric, the water evaporates, leaving behind the pigments that bind to the fibers of the material. This binding process causes the color to remain on the fabric, resulting in a stain that can be difficult to remove. Additionally, tempera paint can become more challenging to remove if it is not treated promptly, as it can dry and set into the fabric.

tempera paint

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Tempera Paint Stains

  • Paper towels or a clean cloth
  • Cold water
  • Mild liquid dish soap
  • White vinegar
  • Pre-treatment stain remover
  • Bleach or oxygen-based bleach (optional)
  • Washing machine

Step By Step Process To Remove Tempera Paint Stains

  1. First, gently scrape off any excess paint with a paper towel or a clean cloth. Be careful not to rub the stain further into the fabric.
  2. Rinse the stained area with cold water. Do not use hot water, as this can set the stain.
  3. Apply a small amount of mild liquid dish soap to the stained area and work it in with your fingers. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Rinse the stained area with cold water until the soap is fully removed.
  5. If the stain is still visible, apply white vinegar to the stained area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Rinse with cold water.
  6. If the stain persists, apply a pre-treatment stain remover and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
  7. Wash the garment in the washing machine using the hottest water appropriate for the fabric, along with your regular laundry detergent. If the garment is white, you may add bleach or an oxygen-based bleach to the wash cycle. If the garment is colored, do not use bleach, as it can cause discoloration.
  8. Inspect the garment for any remaining stains before drying it. If the stain is still visible, repeat the stain removal process or take the garment to a professional cleaner.
Please note that the water temperature when washing the garment in the washing machine should be based on the care label instructions for the fabric. If the care label specifies a temperature, follow those instructions. If there is no temperature specified, use the hottest water appropriate for the fabric. Additionally, always read and follow the instructions on the cleaning products you use and be cautious when using bleach, as it can cause damage to some fabrics.

In Brief

Tempera paint stains clothes due to pigments binding to fabric fibers when the water in the paint evaporates. To remove stains from washable fabrics, first scrape off any excess paint and rinse with cold water. Then, apply mild liquid dish soap and rinse. If the stain remains, try applying white vinegar, pre-treatment stain remover, and wash with laundry detergent in the washing machine. Use hot water appropriate for the fabric, and inspect the garment for any remaining stains before drying.

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