Natural Paint Removers Suitable for Every Surface

Paint removal from any surface is rarely a simple task due to the help of Paint Removers. Every type of paint reacts differently to the surfaces it is applied to, as do all surfaces. When environmental conditions are considered, paint removal can be a challenge. Professional painters and do-it-yourselfers have long relied on chemical-based paint strippers to remove old paint. Many of them are very toxic to humans and the environment, even though they can be very effective. There are various paint removers on the market that aren’t as toxic. Make sure you use a paste formula rather than an oil-based stripper to reduce the number of hazardous fumes produced.

Gel Paint Removers with Soy Base

Methyl soyate, a methyl ester distilled from soybean oil, is found in soy-based Paint Removers. This bio-based solvent is much better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources rather than petroleum. It has low flammability and no ozone-depleting chemicals. These soy-based gels are safe to use on wood, concrete, and metal, but they take a little longer to remove the paint from the surface. Because it does not evaporate or drip, it can be left on the painted surface for several hours after application with a paintbrush. The final removal will be easier if the soy-based stripper is left on the paint for longer.

Paint Removers based on citrus-based paint

Organic compounds derived from plants, terpenes are commonly found in citrus-based Paint Removers. Turpentine, made from pine resin, is another terpene used in paint removal. Citrus-based removers, like soy-based gels, tend to have an orange or citrus scent and work more slowly than stronger chemicals in removing paint. Any painted, or varnished surface can be safely used with them. Even though these strippers are biodegradable, they still contain potentially hazardous chemicals and should be disposed of correctly.

Manual Paint Removal

The most environmentally friendly way to remove paint may be to avoid using any Paint Removers. Older homes, especially those painted with lead-based paint, can still pose some risks due to the paint itself.

• Always wear a mask, safety goggles, and other protective gear when removing paint manually.
• Manually removing paint can be accomplished through a variety of means.
• Use a plastic or metal paint scraper to scrape away peeling paint, but do so carefully so that you don’t damage any surface beneath the paint.
• To make scraping easier, use a heat gun to loosen the paint to the point where it bubbles. Sandpaper or an electric sander can be applied to remove paint with patience and skill. Avoid sanding too deeply, or the surface will be permanently damaged.

How to Remove Paint from a Metal Surface

Baking soda and boiling water can be used as Paint Removers and easily remove paint from small metal items like doors, cabinets, furniture hardware, or outlet covers. Expansion rates of metal and paint cause a rupture in the bond when heated.

What You Need

Most people have the supplies and tools necessary to remove paint from metal.

• Water
• Baking soda
• A roll of paper towels
• Large frying pan
• Tongs
• Stiff-bristled brush
• Flexible scraper

1. Mix the cleaning solution: Add one-fourth cup of baking soda to one quart of water or enough to submerge the painted metal objects in the pot completely.
2. Add Hardware to a Pot of Hot Water: A boil should be achieved. Tongs can be used to add the painted items to the pan, making sure they don’t overlap or touch the sides. Allow the items to simmer for at least 15 minutes after lowering the heat.
3. Extinguish the Heat: Remove the hot items with the tongs and place them on a piece of newspaper or a piece of disposable towel to cool off.
4. Scrape off any excess paint that may have accumulated: Using an old toothbrush or stiff-bristled brush, remove any remaining paint from the surface. It’s possible that a new batch of baking soda and water is required.