How to Remove Paint from Glass – A Step by Step Guide
Updated for 2025: How to Remove Paint from Glass (New Tips & Methods!) Struggling with dried paint on glass? Whether it’s paint splatters on windows, glass doors, or mirrors, this updated guide gives you new methods, expert techniques, and safe removal solutions to get streak-free results without scratching your glass.
Even with painters’ tape and careful prep work, paint splatters on glass can still happen. If you’ve ended up with stubborn paint spots on your windows, mirrors, or glass panels, don’t worry—removing them doesn’t have to be a hassle.
In this updated guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step techniques to remove paint from glass safely using household solutions (like vinegar and dish soap) or specialized paint removers—without scratching your glass or leaving residue behind.
Here’s How To Paint Window Frames
Before we go through the necessary steps to remove paint spots from your windows, have these tools on hand before you begin the paint removal process:
- White Vinegar
- Rubber Gloves
- Rag
- Dish Soap
- Warm Water
- Razor Blade
- Paint Scraper
Having these on hand will make the process quicker and more effective.
Step One:
Pour one cup of white vinegar into a container and microwave it for 30 – 60 seconds until it is boiled. Afterwards, wear your rubber gloves to protect yourself from the heat and take out the container.
Soak your rag of the hot vinegar and begin to rub it on your glass until the paint begins to soften. Once it is soft enough, use your paint scraper to scrape off the paint.
This option is not only cost-effective and efficient, but it is also eco-friendly.
Step Two:
If the paint has failed to completely come off after the first step, it’s time to get the old bucket out!
Fill a bucket with warm water and dish soap, and submerge your second rug in the solution. Here, you will want to use your gloves as a safety precaution and begin rubbing away at your glass. This detergent ensures your razor blade will glide across the glass, preventing any damage – which we’ll discuss in step three.
Step Three:
Proceed to use a razor blade to scrape off the stubborn remnants of paint. Hold your blade at a 45-degree angle and begin to carefully scrape away at the paint, gliding in a slow, smooth motion in a single direction. Pushing and pulling your blade in multiple directions can potentially flake off pieces of glass and damage your window, so be careful.
Step Four:
Once all paint has been entirely removed, it’s just a case of rinsing away the soap and any leftover paint particles. Use a squeegee to remove the remaining streaks, then dry with a cloth and admire your work!
Removing Paint from Textured Glass & Window Frames
Removing Paint from Textured or Frosted Glass:
Use a soft toothbrush with warm soapy water for small paint splatters.
For stubborn paint, apply vinegar, then use a soft-bristle brush to lift the paint from grooves.
Removing Paint from Window Frames (Wood, Metal, Vinyl):
For wooden frames: Use a gentle paint stripper (like citrus-based removers) and fine-grit sandpaper.
For metal frames: Apply acetone and scrub with a nylon brush.
For vinyl frames: Avoid strong chemicals—use warm water & dish soap with a plastic scraper.
📌 Pro Tip: Always test on a small area first to avoid damage.
Removing Paint From a Metal Window Frame
If you are trying to remove paint from metal windows, you will need the following supplies:
- Bucket and rag
- Paintbrush
- Tarpaulin
- Respirator, Rubber gloves and Safety Glasses
- Paint Stripper
- Mineral Spirit
- Nylon Brush
Step One:
Before the paint removal process can begin, you’ll need to remove any nails, screws and hinges from the window frame. Once you put all the hardware to one side, take a clean tarp and place it on the floor and proceed to put on your safety gear mentioned in our supply list.
Step Two:
Take out the paint stripper you have purchased from a hardware store and read the instructions carefully so you know what to do. Ensure windows are fully open as the chemicals in paint strippers can be dangerous to your health.
Step Three:
Once you’re ready, pour the paint stripper into a bucket, dip your nylon brush into the solution, and begin applying 2-3 coats to all surfaces of the window frame. Be sure to pay close attention to any areas where paint has started peeling up.
Step Four:
After applying the paint stripper to all surfaces, wait for at least 20 minutes. The paint stripper needs time to work before you can scrape off the softened paint. Once 20-30 minutes has passed, take your nylon brush and start scraping away the paint.
Step Five:
Once all paint has been fully removed, wet your rag with a few drops of mineral spirit and wipe away any remaining residue. Proceed to rinse and dry the window frame and put its parts back in place.
Looking to remove paint from metal surfaces? Check this out.
Understanding Paint Removers and Solvents
In addition to natural options like white vinegar, you can also use other specialist paint removal products to remove stubborn paint spots. While a variety of solvents and paint removers exist, most are solvent-based and contain toxic chemicals.
Before you embark on your new paint removal adventure, make sure to check the label for warnings and use it in a well-ventilated area.
Cellulose Paint Thinners
Cellulose paint thinners are designed to break down cellulose-based paints, such as those used on metal surfaces like motor vehicles or machines. However, this type of product will work to remove most paint types due to its solvent-based formula.
Acetone
For harder paints to remove, like enamel, you may need to use a more potent product. Enamel paint is oil-based and can be extremely difficult to remove, so you need to use acetone – a paint and varnish remover.
As acetone removes oil-based paints, it is advised not to use it for long periods as it can have harmful effects. Exposure can lead to dry, cracked skin, also known as dermatitis. If you consider using acetone paint remover to remove stubborn spots of paint from glass, we recommend wearing gloves and a mask to protect your skin and lungs.
Here are some tips on How To Get Rid of Paint Smells
FAQ – Quick Answers to Common Paint Removal Questions
Can I use a razor blade on glass without scratching it?
Yes! Just make sure to hold it at a 45-degree angle and use gentle, single-direction strokes.
Will vinegar remove paint from glass?
Yes! Warm white vinegar softens dried paint, making it easier to scrape off.
Is acetone safe for glass?
Yes, but avoid getting it on plastic or vinyl frames, as it may cause discoloration.
What if I can’t remove all the paint?
If there are stubborn stains, use rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits as a last resort.
Newline Painting – Hire Professional Interior and Exterior House Painters
DIY house painting can be messy and overwhelming. So, if you would much rather have someone with the necessary experience help you out, book painters in Melbourne instead. Contact us today at 1300 044 206 to get a free quote or book on our website. We offer professional interior and exterior painting in all of Melbourne including North Melbourne, South Yarra, Hawthorn, St. Kilda, and more.
