How To Get Paint Off Tiles – A Step-By-Step Guide

If you’re about to renovate your bathroom, you might be able to do a lot of the remodelling and decorating yourself. This could include plastering your walls, or redoing your current bathroom tiles. 

Maybe you’re looking to replace your tiles, or even just give them a refresh. If so, you might be wondering how to get paint off tiles if you’ve decorated them previously. Or, maybe you’re in the process of your remodel and have accidentally gotten paint splatter on them.

Whatever the reason for paint removal, there’s no need to fret. At Boro Bathrooms, we’ve highlighted exactly how to get paint off tiles in our step-by-step guide below. Read on to find out what you need to do, and what tools you need…

Step 1: Prepare accordingly

The first step in any DIY project is to ensure you’ve prepared accordingly. This means protecting your room and its existing items from any mess you might make. 

Ensure you have covered up the area with an old bed sheet to collect any dust or debris that may gather. Put on appropriate protective gear – such as a mask and goggles – as the solutions you’re working with could potentially be hazardous when exposed to your lungs, eyes and skin. 

Step 2: Get the right tools

Next, ensure you have the right tools to get the job done. For example, you’ll need a scraper or utility knife to remove the paint, as well as a solution that makes the paint easier to remove. 

You can choose from the following:

• Vinegar: Vinegar is a natural, eco-friendly solution, and is a great alternative for those who want to avoid chemicals. 
• Nail polish remover: This inexpensive solution is best for oil-based paints, and works on both dried and fresh paint. 
• Paint thinner: This option only works if paint is wet, so is better to use on walls that have accidentally got paint splatter on them.

Step 3: Clean the tiles

Next, you need to clean the tiles to remove any dust and debris before scraping. This will ensure the surface is smooth and ready for paint removal. 

Use a damp microfibre cloth with some white vinegar and warm water. Then, wipe off any residue with a different dry cloth. 

Step 4: Test the solution, then begin

Whatever solution you decide to use, you first need to test it on your tiles to ensure they don’t react badly and result in damage. To do so, test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area and leave for the recommended time. Typically, this is around 10-30 minutes.

If no damage is caused to the tile you can continue applying the same process to the rest of the wall. Apply the solution with a microfibre cloth or a cotton bud as it’s less damaging. 

Step 5: Allow the solution to set, then scrape

Once you have left the solution for the recommended amount of time, it’s time to scrape off the paint with a utility knife or scraper.

Take your time to scrape the paint off, in small, fluid motions. Once you’ve removed all the paint you can with the tools, scrub off any remnants with a microfibre cloth soaked in your chosen solution. 

Looking for more inspiration on how to decorate your bathroom? Take a look at our current projects or head to one of our showrooms. 

Step 6: Check the tiles and tidy up 

Finally, after you’ve removed all the paint you can from the tiles, check them over. Focus on the more apparent areas first, then take a look at the spaces which are more hidden. 

Once you’re happy all the paint is removed to the best of your ability, tidy up any remains as soon as possible. Clean the tiles with a cloth soaked in soapy warm water to remove any leftover debris. If you plan on painting your tiles a different colour, check out our guide on what steps you need to take. 

How to get paint off tiles: Do’s and don’ts

When removing paint from tiles, there are several actions you should and shouldn’t take. For example: 

• Do: Clean as you go, this will save time when it comes to cleaning up later. Ensure you have a bin bag at the ready to put any rubbish in, and cover the floor area to pick up paint chips more easily. 
• Don’t: Rush the job. It can be tempting to want the project over and done with, but if you rush your way through it, you could make mistakes. For example, if you use too much solution, it could cause damage to the tiles underneath the paint. 
• Do: Use the right tools. Using the incorrect tools, such as sharp knives, can cause scratches and even cracks in your tiles. Opt for a scraper if possible. 
• Don’t: Use the wrong solutions. Using too harsh of a chemical can cause damage to your tiles underneath. 

How to get paint off grout 

If you’ve gotten paint on the grout in your bathroom, don’t worry, you can simply remove it with rubbing alcohol.

Soak the cloth in rubbing alcohol and apply it to the areas of grout that has dried paint. Don’t apply the rubbing alcohol directly to the grout as this may discolour or stain it. Repeat until you’re able to scrape the dried paint off. 

With our expertise in bathroom design and installation, we can overhaul your Greater Manchester shower area – or just provide you with bathroom supplies to fit yourself if you prefer.