How can I remove dried paint from baseboards without damaging the varnish?
Asked by Mateja Petković 
1 month ago
Last Updated: August 11, 2024
So, it looks like someone (not pointing any fingers 😉) didn’t do a great job of taping before painting. Any ideas on how to remove dried paint from baseboards without damaging the varnish?
I like to use a super sharp cabinet scraper.
For cleaning up our boards, we opted for a butter knife and a damp rag. It was necessary to paint the trim in order to access the plaster behind it. Once it dried, we used a rag on a knife with warm water to easily clean it off.
I found that using a damp rag on a putty or butter knife did the trick for me. A nut pick can be useful in removing paint from the woodgrain grooves. It appears to be oak.
Yeah it is.
I actually stripped all the oak woodwork in my house years ago. It was definitely a lot of work.
We utilized denatured alcohol.
Do you know what kind of paint it is?
Recommends using latex.
Suggests using a warm, damp cloth and a plastic scraper to remove lumps, followed by rubbing alcohol and a white cotton rag to reach into creases and pores.
Will this be safe for the finish? I want to make sure because I think my husband would prefer painted trim over having the finish removed! 😅
Alcohol won’t harm the wood, but it can affect the varnish or finish. To dilute it, mix with water in a 1:1 ratio, apply with a white rag or q-tip, and wipe off with a damp cloth. Be sure not to let it sit for too long, and you may need to repeat the process a few times. If the varnish is damaged, touch up those spots with the original finish.
What about giving ‘Goof Off’ a shot? It’s great for getting rid of dried latex paint without messing up the solvent-based varnish.
I’ll check that out, Wal.
Found it ironic that Goof Off ended up leaving behind an oily layer that was extremely difficult to remove
Consider using Frog Tape (green instead of blue) next time for better results
Mentioned that the original job was not done by the OP.
I’ve actually painted these walls before, but changed the color of the trim ☺
You mentioned that someone else did a bad job of taping. I was just bringing it up.
I find that a plastic scraper does the trick for me.
To make it easier, use a hairdryer to soften it. Scrape off the thick parts first, then clean it with a solution or spirit. You may need to restain, as the paint will come off.
I really don’t want to have to restain. I’m hoping to avoid that.
You’ll have to restain regardless. As soon as you touch it, the current stain will fade.
Have you considered using a magic eraser? Or maybe just some warm, soapy water with a cloth?
If it’s latex paint, try using denatured alcohol. Alternatively, try Goof Off or a combination of both. Soak a cotton rag, wrap it around a 2-inch putty knife, and scrub the paint away.
Use WD-40