How to Remove Paint on a Mirror

When renovating your home or doing crafts projects, you might accidentally splatter some paint on a mirror. It can be difficult to remove without scratching the delicate surface, but there are ways to make the job less trying. Try these simple yet effective do it yourself home remedies before you decide to replace the mirror entirely.

Nail Polish Remover

Dip a piece of cotton wool in nail polish remover and wipe it gently over the paint spill to clear it. Use as much as needed and as much pressure as you think the glass surface can stand, but take caution so you do not break the glass. Most paints should respond to this treatment, and it will not harm the surface of the mirror.

Acetone

If regular nail polish remover does not work, try a stronger form with acetone instead. You will want to use gloves when using acetone, however, because the chemical can dry out your skin with too much exposure. This too will remove the paint without leaving any scratches on the surface of the mirror. Use cotton wool balls or cotton cloth to wipe off the paint spills. Here too you will have to rub it constantly to get all of the paint off the glass.

Paint Thinner

Use a paint thinner if the paint has dried and hardened and does not respond to nail polish remover, or acetone. Dip a soft cotton cloth in the thinner and rub it vigorously into the dried mess. Use both gloves and a mask when handling thinner, especially if you are allergic to this substance. This should dislodge most paint stains—even stubborn ones. But, if you're still having trouble, try leaving some thinner on the hardened paint for a little while to dissolve it. Then, it will be much easier to wipe off.

Sharp Blade

If using paint thinner does not work, then you have no option but to scrape the paint off with a sharp razor blade. You have to be careful to ensure that you do not scratch the surface of the mirror while doing this. The keyword here is "gentle". You cannot afford to put too much pressure on the mirror or it can break or show scratches. Use light pressure and you should be able to achieve a good result.

In many cases, a soft touch and the right solution will quickly rid your mirror of ugly paint spots and other blemishes. You will then have a bright and spotless mirror that's a pleasure to look at. However, there are some cases where it might be cheaper to get the mirror replaced rather than putting in the effort to remove the paint. You simply have to make a call on whether you want to preserve the old mirror or not.