How to get spray paint off of a mirror?

It’s a no-brainer that spray paints are a quick and easy way to add color to your home decor. However, it can be a nightmare to take it off if you accidentally spilled it on a mirror. Whether it was a DIY project gone wrong or a naughty toddler, getting spray paint off a mirror may seem impossible.

With that said, with the right tools and techniques, you can successfully remove the spray paint. Wondering how? Keep scrolling to know…

Today, I will explain various methods for removing spray paint from a mirror. The list includes household items like nail polish remover and rubbing alcohol, as well as more specialized products like graffiti remover.

By the end of this, I’m sure you’ll be able to tackle any spray paint mishap and restore your mirror to its former glory. So, let’s dig in…

Will Spray Paint Damage a Mirror?

While spray paint may seem like a quick and easy way to add a pop of color or change the look of a mirror, it’s crucial to be cautious when using it. While the glass surface of a mirror is generally resistant to damage, it’s still important to take care when cleaning away the paint.

Applying too much pressure or using abrasive materials could crack or shatter your mirror. However, as long as you’re gentle and use a soft cloth or sponge to remove the paint, you should be able to get the paint off of your mirror without any issues.

Just be sure to test a small, inconspicuous area before tackling the entire surface. This is to ensure that the paint comes off easily and without causing any damage.

How to Clean a Mirror of Spray Paint

Here are 7 best ways for cleaning spray paint off your mirror.

1. Steel Wool

Tempered glass is typically used to make mirrors because it is safer than non-tempered glass. In addition, due to the surface’s great scratch resistance, you may use abrasive products to remove the paint without worrying about damaging the mirror’s surface.

On that note, Steel wool can remove dry spray paint easily in some cases. Simply dampen the steel wool and lightly rub the paint with it. The leftover paint should then be cleaned with a moist towel. Once all the paint is gone, use a dry cloth to soak up the extra water.

2. Baking Soda

You can use baking soda to remove dried-on paint from a mirror since it is so abrasive. However, before starting, make sure to use gloves since baking soda might irritate your skin.

Make a paste out of baking soda and a little water. Then, massage the paste onto the surface to remove the paint.

Then, wipe off the baking soda paste with a clean, moist cloth or with some vinegar on the mirror. That should do the job!

3. Oven Cleaner

Oven cleaning has highly potent ingredients that can dissolve a variety of items. On the flip side, an oven cleaning can potentially burn the skin and irritate the eyes. Since that is the case, if you decide to take this path, you should wear gloves, eye protection, and a breathing mask.

After letting the oven cleaner stay on the mirror for 20 to 30 minutes, wipe it off with a fresh rag. Repeat the procedure as necessary until all of the paint is gone. The last step is to wipe away any leftover oven cleaner with a moist clean towel.

4. Acetone

Acetone can degrade paint, making it simpler to remove from a mirror’s surface. Applying acetone to a paper towel that has been folded is the way to do it. Remember that gloves will prevent the acetone from getting on your hands, so use a pair.

After soaking the paper towel with the acetone, quickly rub it over the mirror to remove the paint. You don’t even need to rinse the mirror after this because the acetone will evaporate.

5. Nailpaint Remover

Spray paint may be easily removed by using nail polish remover by breaking it down. You’ll need to use an acetone-containing remover if you want this method to work. For this, check the nail polish packaging because not all nail polish removers include acetone.

Apply the remover to the paint using a cotton ball, a disposable cotton pad, or a folded paper towel.

More nail paint remover can be used as necessary on a cotton ball, cotton pad, or paper towel. To make cleaning up the paint easier, replace the cotton ball with a new one if it accumulates too much.

6. Vinegar

Vinegar to remove spray paint off of your mirror is one of the simplest methods. Simply squirt vinegar into a clean cloth, then wipe the spray-painted area with it. If you have cleaning vinegar, use it instead of white vinegar.

After using the cleaning vinegar to remove the paint, wash the surface with a clean towel. Then, rinse it in water, and dry it with a clean cloth.

7. Dry Erase Marker

Another easy fix is using a dry-erase marker, like those used on whiteboards. This works like a wonder and can be used on most mirrors.

To completely remove the paint, rub the dry-erase pen over it. Then remove any residue by wiping it away with a moist towel. Large spray paint surfaces shouldn’t dry erased with this method. It is simply because this will take a lot of your time. However, it is an easy and quick fix if the spray paint is not much or on a smaller surface on your mirror.

Final Words

Removing spray paint from a mirror requires patience and the right cleaning products. Water and soap can remove water-based spray paint, while acetone or rubbing alcohol is effective for removing oil-based spray paint.

You may opt for a commercial paint or adhesive remover may be necessary if the above methods do not work. After the paint has been gone, clean the mirror thoroughly to remove any residue or streaks. And, that’s all for the day!