How to Get Rid of Paint on a Laminate Cabinet

Quck answer

To remove paint from a laminate cabinet, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the area: Lay down a drop cloth or newspaper to protect the surrounding area.

2. Gather supplies: You will need a paint stripper, a putty knife, a scrub brush, and a sponge or cloth.

3. Apply the paint stripper: Follow the instructions on the paint stripper and apply it to the painted surface.

4. Let it sit: Allow the paint stripper to sit on the surface for the recommended amount of time.

5. Scrape off the paint: Use a putty knife to gently scrape off the paint from the laminate surface.

6. Clean the cabinet: Use a scrub brush and warm, soapy water to clean any residue from the cabinet.

7. Rinse and dry: Rinse the cabinet with clean water and dry it thoroughly.

8. Repeat if necessary: If there are still traces of paint, repeat the process until the cabinet is paint-free.

9. Apply a laminate cleaner: Once the cabinet is clean, apply a laminate cleaner to restore its shine.

10. Enjoy your paint-free laminate cabinet!


Changing the color of walls, furniture, and cabinets is a fast and affordable way to update a dated living space or refresh a dull room. However, dealing with the aftermath of working with liquid paint can be challenging. Painting a space can result in paint drops or splatters on surfaces that were not meant to be painted.

If paint accidentally gets on a laminate cabinet, it can be removed without damaging the shiny flooring, siding, or countertop. Removing paint from laminate cabinets requires prompt action for fresh paint spills, the right techniques and cleaning agents for dried paint, and a steady hand for large amounts of unsightly paint on the laminate surface.

Preparing Laminate for Paint Removal

While the paint may be an eyesore, there is more to the kitchen or bathroom cabinet’s exterior than what meets the eye. Before addressing dried paint to achieve a flawless laminate surface, the entire cabinet face must be thoroughly cleaned.

According to Clean Home Guide, it is recommended to wipe and vacuum the laminate surface before attempting to scrape or remove paint from the cabinets. This will minimize scratches and fine marks on the protective laminate coating caused by dirt and debris.

Removing Milk Paint from Laminate Cabinets

The use of milk paint is highly recommended as it can quickly transform outdated kitchen cabinets. However, milk paint drops or splatters on unwanted areas of the cabinets can be problematic. If possible, immediately wipe off any milk paint drops on laminate cabinets.

If the paint has dried, it will require some effort and common household cleaners. Milk paint on laminate cabinets can be removed using simple household solvents. Tech Lib suggests using isopropyl alcohol or acetone, commonly used for removing nail polish, to dissolve dried paint on laminate.

Before applying a large amount of a strong solvent such as rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover, always test a small area of the laminate. While effective, solvents can damage the finish of an older laminate cabinet or discolor the laminate finish on kitchen and bathroom cabinets. After applying the solvent, immediately wipe the area with warm water to remove any residue and traces of dried paint.

Getting Rid of Laminate Glue on Cabinets

Laminate glue can sometimes end up on cabinets in small blobs. This may go unnoticed until the glue becomes dirty, covered in dust, or causes an aesthetic or structural problem. Removing laminate glue from kitchen or bathroom cabinets requires a gentle approach and sharp tools.

Use a razor blade to scrape off the spots of laminate glue from the cabinets. Carefully slide the blade under the blob and lift it up. It is important to wear work gloves and safety goggles when working with sharp tools in tight spaces. Removing laminate glue from cabinets will ensure a problem-free surface, preserve the cabinet’s structural integrity, and reduce the need for future repairs.

Leave a Comment