10 best solvent to remove paint products tested for 2025

Okay, let’s talk paint removal. If you’ve ever tackled a DIY project or had an accidental spill, you know how frustrating dried paint can be. I’ve been there, scraping away endlessly, wishing I had the right stuff from the start. Finding the best solvent to remove paint can genuinely save you hours of effort and a lot of headaches. In this guide, I’ve put together a list of 10 reliable paint removal options, sharing what they’re great for and what you need to know before you buy.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Motsenbocker’s Lift Off 41301 Latex Paint Remover Spray…	View on Amazon
	Custom Shop Panel Prep and Degreaser – Low VOC Surface…	View on Amazon
	Pro’s Choice Pro Solv Gel Stain Remover for Ink, Oil,…	View on Amazon
	POLIXEL Adhesive Remover – Powerful Glue Remover Spray with…	View on Amazon
	KLEAN-STRIP Naked Gun Spray Gun Cleaner, Powerful Aerosol,…	View on Amazon
	KLEAN-STRIP Naked Gun Paint Remover for Spray Guns,…	View on Amazon
	Motsenbocker’s Lift Off 41345 Latex Paint Remover Spray…	View on Amazon
	ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner – Citrus Scent, Low…	View on Amazon
	SHIELDOM Adhesive Remover, Dissolve & Soften Adhesives on…	View on Amazon
	U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner and Restorer, 16 Ounce…	View on Amazon

Motsenbocker’s Lift Off 41301 Latex Paint Remover Spray

This Motsenbocker’s Lift Off spray is a real workhorse when it comes to tackling latex paint. Its patented, water-based formula makes short work of both fresh and old latex, acrylics, and even stencil paints. I’ve personally used it on a stubborn spill on my concrete patio, and it lifted the paint right off, leaving no trace. What’s even better is its versatility – it works on so many surfaces without causing damage, which is a huge plus for any home improvement enthusiast.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Water-Based Formula: Safely removes old and new latex, acrylics, and enamels.
  • Multi-Surface Friendly: Effective on fiberglass, tools, carpet, brick, upholstery, and vehicles.
  • Great for Paint Cleanup: Cleans rollers, brushes, spills, and pans, leaving paint solid for easy disposal.
  • Safer Alternative: Free from harsh chemicals like Methylene Chloride and NMP.
  • Made in the USA: Formulated and manufactured domestically with superior ingredients.
• Pros:
  • Extremely versatile for various surfaces and paint types.
  • Safer to use than many chemical alternatives.
  • Helps with easy disposal of paint residue.
• Cons:
  • May require multiple applications for very old or thick paint layers.
• Best for: Accidental latex paint spills, cleaning painting tools, or removing latex paint from delicate surfaces.
  Expert Opinion: This is my go-to for general latex paint mishaps. Its safety profile combined with its effectiveness makes it incredibly practical for almost any DIYer.

Custom Shop Panel Prep and Degreaser – Low VOC Surface

If you’re into automotive work or serious restoration, Custom Shop Panel Prep is specifically designed to get surfaces squeaky clean before painting. It’s not a traditional paint stripper, but a powerful degreaser that ensures your new paint adheres perfectly. I’ve seen it used to remove road grime and sanding dust from car panels, and the results speak for themselves – a pristine surface ready for priming or painting. Its low VOC formula is also a significant benefit for indoor projects.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Multi-Purpose Water Based Formula: Contains solvents and detergents to cut through surface contaminants.
  • Low VOC Formula: Helps eliminate static and reduces dust contamination for better paint application.
  • Exceptional Grease-Cutting Power: Solvent strong in a waterborne formula.
  • Multifunctional: Safe for primed, painted surfaces, leather, vinyl, plastic, aluminum, and bare metal.
  • Removes Road Debris and Contaminants: Ideal for a final wash before painting.
• Pros:
  • Excellent for preparing surfaces for new paint.
  • Low VOC, making it safer for enclosed spaces.
  • Leaves no residue for a clean finish.
• Cons:
  • Not designed to strip off existing layers of paint.
• Best for: Automotive surface preparation, degreasing prior to painting, and removing sanding dust and road grime.
  Expert Opinion: This product is essential for achieving a professional finish in automotive painting. It ensures proper adhesion and reduces common paint application issues.

Pro’s Choice Pro Solv Gel Stain Remover for Ink, Oil

When you’re dealing with a tough, oil-based stain like ink, oil paint, or even nail polish, Pro’s Choice Pro Solv Gel is a lifesaver. What I love about this gel is its targeted application – you can precisely apply it to the stain without affecting the surrounding material. I used it on an old oil paint spot on a carpet, and it remarkably dissolved and lifted the stain. It’s truly a professional-grade solution for those tricky, stubborn spots.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Tough on Oil Stain Derivatives: Designed to dissolve and lift nail polish, ink, oil paint, gum, and tar.
  • Targeted Stain Treatment: Gel allows for precise application, focusing on the stained area.
  • Versatile Application: Effective on carpets, upholstery, and fabrics.
  • Powerful Clean Rinse Formula: Acts as an emergency stain rescue remover.
  • Trusted Brand: Known for excellence in the cleaning industry.
• Pros:
  • Highly effective on a wide range of oil-based stains.
  • Gel formula allows for precise and controlled application.
  • Versatile for carpets, upholstery, and fabrics.
• Cons:
  • Smaller bottle size might be limiting for large areas.
• Best for: Removing specific oil-based paint, ink, or tar stains from carpets, upholstery, and fabrics.
  Expert Opinion: This gel is a must-have for professional cleaners or anyone facing a challenging, localized oil-based stain. Its precision application is invaluable.

POLIXEL Adhesive Remover – Powerful Glue Remover Spray

While not strictly a paint remover, the POLIXEL Adhesive Remover is fantastic for removing residues that often get confused with or underlie paint projects. If you’ve ever tried to repaint something only to find a sticky mess of old tape or label residue, this is your answer. Its powerful formula quickly dissolves sticky residues without damaging the surface. I’ve used it to clean up old sticker adhesive from a painted metal cabinet, and it left the surface smooth and ready for a fresh coat.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Powerful & Effective Formula: Quickly dissolves tough, sticky residues like glue, tape, stickers, tar, and wax.
  • Works on Multiple Surfaces: Safe for glass, metal, plastic, ceramic, stainless steel, and most painted surfaces.
  • Easy to Use: Simply spray, wait, and wipe away effortlessly.
  • Residue-Free & Pleasant: Cleans thoroughly without an oily film and has a mild, low-odor formula.
  • Perfect for Home, Auto & DIY: Versatile for countless tasks like removing decals, price tags, or adhesive from floors.
• Pros:
  • Extremely effective on a wide variety of sticky residues.
  • Safe for use on most painted surfaces without damage.
  • Low odor and residue-free finish.
• Cons:
  • Not designed for removing actual paint layers.
• Best for: Removing adhesive, sticker residue, tar, or wax from painted surfaces, metal, glass, or plastic before painting or as a general clean-up.
  Expert Opinion: Every DIYer needs a reliable adhesive remover. This one stands out for its surface safety and effectiveness, making preparation or clean-up tasks much easier.

KLEAN-STRIP Naked Gun Spray Gun Cleaner, Powerful Aerosol

For anyone who uses a spray gun for painting, maintaining your equipment is crucial. The KLEAN-STRIP Naked Gun cleaner is specifically formulated to keep your spray guns pristine. It boasts efficient cleaning power for both solvent and waterborne paints. I’ve relied on this to quickly clean out my airbrush between colors and after a session, preventing dried paint from ruining my equipment. The extension tube is a clever addition, ensuring you hit every internal part.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Efficient Cleaning Power: Removes both solvent and waterborne paints effectively.
  • Versatile Use: Ideal for cleaning spray gun bodies, tips, cups, hoses, and fittings.
  • Convenient Design: Features an extension tube for precise application.
  • Superior to Lacquer Thinners: Leaves no residue, reducing cleanup time and enhancing tool lifespan.
  • VOC Compliant: Offers a high-performance cleaning solution in strict regulatory environments.
• Pros:
  • Effectively cleans both types of paint from spray equipment.
  • Extends the lifespan of expensive spray guns.
  • VOC compliant for wider usability.
• Cons:
  • Primarily for equipment cleaning, not for stripping paint from large surfaces.
• Best for: Thoroughly cleaning spray guns, airbrushes, and related painting equipment after use.
  Expert Opinion: Neglecting spray gun maintenance is costly. This cleaner is an essential investment for anyone who paints regularly, ensuring your tools are always ready and functioning optimally.

KLEAN-STRIP Naked Gun Paint Remover for Spray Guns

This is another excellent offering from KLEAN-STRIP, very similar to the previous one but emphasizes its paint removal capabilities more broadly for spray equipment. It uses a potent aerosol spray stream to efficiently remove both solvent-based and waterborne paints. I like that it simplifies the cleaning process, saving time from complex setups. Again, the precision application with the extension tube is a game-changer for getting into those hard-to-reach parts of your spray gun or even small shop surfaces.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Powerful Cleaning Solution: Potent aerosol spray stream for efficient paint removal from spray equipment.
  • Easy & Efficient: Simplifies cleaning, saving time and reducing costs.
  • Precision Application: Comes with a convenient extension tube for pinpoint accuracy.
  • Versatile Compatibility: Designed for thorough cleaning of spray gun bodies, tips, cups, and other shop surfaces.
  • Safe for Various Surfaces: Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
• Pros:
  • Excellent for quick and effective cleaning of painting equipment.
  • Reduces cleanup time compared to traditional methods.
  • Precision nozzle is great for detailed cleaning.
• Cons:
  • Still mostly limited to equipment cleaning rather than surface paint removal.
• Best for: Rapid and thorough cleaning of spray guns and paint-splattered small shop surfaces.
  Expert Opinion: When efficiency is key, this product delivers. It’s perfect for maintaining the longevity and performance of your spray painting tools, making it a strong contender for the best solvent to remove paint from specialized equipment.

Motsenbocker’s Lift Off 41345 Latex Paint Remover Spray

This is the larger version of the Motsenbocker’s Lift Off Latex Paint Remover, sharing all the fantastic qualities of its smaller sibling. Its patented, water-based formula continues to impress by safely lifting latex, acrylics, and enamels from a myriad of surfaces. I’ve reached for the larger can when I have a bigger area to clean or multiple tools that need attention. It’s a true multi-tasker, making cleanup incredibly straightforward and safer than traditional harsh chemicals.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Paint Removal Made Easy: Safely removes old and new latex, acrylics, and latex enamels.
  • Works on Multiple Surfaces: Multi-surface friendly for fiberglass, tools, carpet, brick, upholstery, and clothing.
  • Great for Paint Cleanup: Will not damage painting tools; excellent for cleaning rollers, brushes, and pans.
  • Safer Alternative to Harsh Chemicals: Free from Methylene Chloride and NMP.
  • Proudly Made in the USA: Formulated and manufactured with superior ingredients.
• Pros:
  • Versatile for a wide range of surfaces and paint types.
  • Water-based and significantly safer for users and the environment.
  • Helps solidify paint for easy and safe disposal.
• Cons:
  • Requires patience and sometimes multiple applications for very stubborn, aged paint.
• Best for: Larger latex paint removal projects, extensive tool cleanup, or continuous use where safety is a primary concern.
  Expert Opinion: For anyone dealing with frequent latex paint cleanup, investing in the larger size of this Lift Off product is a smart move. It balances powerful performance with user and surface safety, making it a top contender for the best solvent to remove paint in a general DIY setting.

ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner – Citrus Scent, Low

Artists and eco-conscious DIYers, this one’s for you. The ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner stands out for its eco-friendly citrus formula. It’s derived from natural plant oils, offering a pleasant scent instead of harsh chemical fumes. I’ve used it for cleaning oil paint brushes, and it does a fantastic job without drying out the bristles. It’s gentle, low-odor, and biodegradable, making it a much safer choice for indoor studios or sensitive workspaces compared to traditional paint thinners.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Eco-Friendly Citrus Formula: Made from natural plant oils with a pleasant citrus scent.
  • Safe Alternative to Turpentine: Low toxicity, low odor, and biodegradable; safer for indoor use.
  • Versatile Artist & DIY Solvent: Ideal for thinning oil paints, cleaning brushes, and dissolving natural resins.
  • Gentle Yet Effective Cleaning: Removes fresh oil paint from tools and surfaces while preserving brush bristles.
  • Low VOC & Sustainable Choice: High performance without compromising health or air quality.
• Pros:
  • Significantly safer and more pleasant to use indoors due to low odor and VOC.
  • Excellent for artists needing a gentle yet effective thinner and cleaner.
  • Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
• Cons:
  • Not powerful enough for dried, cured paint removal on large surfaces.
• Best for: Artists thinning oil paints, cleaning art brushes, and light cleanup of fresh oil-based paints on various surfaces.
  Expert Opinion: This is the ideal choice for artists or hobbyists prioritizing health and environmental impact. It proves that you don’t need harsh chemicals to achieve effective cleaning and thinning.

SHIELDOM Adhesive Remover, Dissolve & Soften Adhesives on

Much like the POLIXEL, the SHIELDOM Adhesive Remover is a fantastic specialized product for removing sticky residues. What sets this one apart is the included plastic razor blade scraper & spatula. This little tool is a game-changer, allowing you to gently yet effectively scrape off softened adhesive without scratching delicate surfaces, including painted ones. I’ve found it incredibly useful for removing old car decals or price tags from furniture before a repaint, ensuring a perfectly smooth base.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Effective Adhesive Remover: Made from premium materials, effectively removes stubborn adhesive residue.
  • Plastic Razor Blade Scraper Included: Designed to be gentle on surfaces while effectively removing adhesive.
  • Versatile Usage: Can be used on metal, glass, plastic, and painted surfaces.
  • Quick and Easy to Use: Convenient spray nozzle for easy application.
  • Residue-Free Formula: Dissolves adhesive completely, leaving no sticky or greasy trace.
• Pros:
  • Comes with a valuable plastic scraper for safe removal.
  • Very effective on a wide range of adhesive types.
  • Safe for most surfaces, including painted ones.
• Cons:
  • Not designed to remove actual paint, only the adhesives underneath.
• Best for: Removing stubborn sticker, tape, or label residue from painted surfaces, glass, or plastic, especially when precision and surface protection are critical.
  Expert Opinion: The inclusion of the plastic scraper elevates this adhesive remover above many others. It truly aids in getting a perfectly clean surface without damage, making it a valuable prep tool.

U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner and Restorer, 16 Ounce

Every artist knows the pain of a brush ruined by dried paint. The U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner and Restorer is here to save the day! This high-performance cleaner is designed to restore brushes with dried-on acrylic, oil, gouache, and water-based paints. I’ve seen it bring seemingly hopeless brushes back to life, soaking them for a few hours (or up to 24 for really tough cases) and then easily wiping away the softened residue. It’s also excellent for cleaning airbrushes and other art tools, preventing unnecessary replacements.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Highly Effective Cleaning Solution: Restores brushes with dried-on acrylic, oil, gouache, inks, and water-based paints.
  • Excellent for All Artist Tools: Great for removing dried paint from airbrushes and other art supplies.
  • Extends Tool Life: Prevents tossing out brushes, allowing for repeated reuse.
  • Easy Directions for Use: Soak as necessary, remove residue, and wash with mild soap.
  • Versatile for Different Paint Types: Cleans various paint types from brushes and airbrushes.
• Pros:
  • Successfully revives brushes with dried-on paint, saving money.
  • Works on a wide variety of paint types.
  • Also effective for airbrush cleaning.
• Cons:
  • Primarily for cleaning art tools, not for stripping paint from walls or furniture.
• Best for: Artists needing to restore brushes ruined by dried paint or maintain their airbrushes and other painting tools.
  Expert Opinion: This cleaner is an essential for any artist. It’s an investment that pays for itself by extending the life of expensive brushes and ensuring your tools are always ready for your next masterpiece.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When looking for the best solvent to remove paint, it’s clear there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. For latex paint spills and cleanup, Motsenbocker’s Lift Off (both sizes) is a standout, offering a safe, water-based solution that’s incredibly versatile across many surfaces. If you’re preparing surfaces for automotive painting, Custom Shop Panel Prep and Degreaser is your go-to for ensuring a perfectly clean, static-free base, though it won’t strip existing paint.

For specialized stain removal on fabrics or carpets, Pro’s Choice Pro Solv Gel excels with its targeted, powerful formula for oil-based marks. And for those pesky adhesive residues that often precede or accompany paint projects, POLIXEL Adhesive Remover and SHIELDOM Adhesive Remover are highly effective, with SHIELDOM gaining an edge due to its included plastic scraper for gentle yet thorough removal.

Finally, for maintaining your painting equipment, both KLEAN-STRIP Naked Gun products are exceptional for cleaning spray guns and airbrushes of both solvent and waterborne paints, extending their lifespan. Artists will particularly appreciate ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner for gentle oil paint thinning and brush cleaning, and the U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner for rescuing dried paint brushes, saving valuable tools from the trash.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best solvent to remove paint really boils down to the specific challenge you’re facing. If you’re dealing with fresh or dried latex paint on almost any surface, Motsenbocker’s Lift Off is an undeniable champion. For those meticulous automotive prep jobs, Custom Shop Panel Prep sets you up for success. When confronting stubborn, oily stains on soft furnishings, Pro’s Choice Pro Solv Gel is your precision weapon. And for cleaning up sticky remnants before you even get to painting, the adhesive removers from POLIXEL and SHIELDOM are invaluable. Don’t forget, keeping your paint tools in top shape is key, and the KLEAN-STRIP Naked Gun cleaners, along with the U.S. Art Supply Brush Cleaner, are designed for just that. Ultimately, stocking your toolkit with a couple of these specialized solutions will ensure you’re prepared for nearly any paint-related predicament, making your projects smoother and your cleanups much easier.

FAQ Section

Q1: What is the best solvent to remove paint from wood without damaging it?
A: For latex or acrylic paint on wood, Motsenbocker’s Lift Off Latex Paint Remover is an excellent choice as it’s water-based and less aggressive than traditional strippers, reducing the risk of damage. Always test in an inconspicuous area first. For oil-based paints, a milder option like mineral spirits or a citrus-based stripper might be considered, but proceed with caution.

Q2: Can I use a paint solvent on fabric or carpet?
A: Yes, but carefully. Products like Pro’s Choice Pro Solv Gel Stain Remover are specifically designed for paint and oil stains on carpets and upholstery. For general latex paint, Motsenbocker’s Lift Off can also work on some fabrics. Always patch test on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the material.

Q3: Are paint solvents safe to use indoors?
A: Many traditional paint solvents contain harsh chemicals and high VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) that are not safe for indoor use without proper ventilation. However, options like Motsenbocker’s Lift Off (water-based) or ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner (citrus-based, low VOC) are much safer for indoor projects, especially when ventilation is limited. Always check the product label for specific safety instructions.

Q4: How do I dispose of paint solvent and removed paint safely?
A: Disposal varies by local regulations. Never pour solvents or paint down the drain. Many water-based removers like Motsenbocker’s Lift Off allow the paint to solidify, making it easier to dispose of in regular trash once dry. For chemical solvents, collect residue in a sealed container and take it to a hazardous waste facility. Check with your local waste management for specific guidelines on the best solvent to remove paint waste disposal.

Q5: What’s the difference between a paint stripper, paint thinner, and a paint remover?
A: A paint stripper is typically a strong chemical designed to remove multiple layers of old, cured paint from surfaces. A paint thinner is used to thin paint for application or to clean fresh, wet paint from brushes. A paint remover is a broader term that can include strippers, cleaners for fresh paint, or specialized products for specific paint types (like latex). The “best solvent to remove paint” often refers to products in the stripper or remover category.

Q6: Can these solvents remove spray paint?
A: Removing spray paint can be tricky as it’s often designed to adhere strongly. Motsenbocker’s Lift Off is effective on latex and acrylic spray paints. For other types of spray paint, specialized graffiti removers or stronger industrial solvents might be needed. Always test on an inconspicuous area first, especially on painted or delicate surfaces, as some solvents can affect the underlying finish.