You know about mineral spirits but might realize you are a bit hazy on the details.
So, will mineral spirits remove paint? It depends on what is meant by paint and remove. Mineral spirits are one of the best paint thinners–and arguably the best solvent for oily stains and oil-based paints.
Removing paint usually means stripping dried paint. You can use mineral spirits to aid this process, but it usually is not sufficient.
This article will clear up what mineral spirits can and cannot do–and list best practices when using mineral spirits.
Can Mineral Spirits Safely Remove Paint?
Acrylic Paint
This is water based, so spirits are not ideal. Try soap and hot water instead.
Latex Paint
Latex paint is also water based, so mineral spirits are not ideal. Again, try soap and water.

Chalk Paint
Like latex paint, this is another water-based paint, so the same as above applies.
Oil-Based Paints
This is where mineral spirits shine. Mineral spirits are safe for most surfaces and work as a pre-paint cleaner for sticky residue [1].
Do mineral spirits take off paint? Sometimes. To take off dry paint, use it along with heat, sanding, and scraping.
From Wooden Surfaces
Paint On Concrete
You can use mineral spirits on concrete floors, as well as grout, mortar, and marble. However, it might be wise to test a small area before going at whole surfaces.
Do not use mineral spirits on asphalt or other petroleum-based products.

Remove Car Paint
Can You Clean Paintbrushes With Mineral Spirits?
Many people online describe cleaning brushes using mineral spirits.
There could be subtle differences with different projects, but here are the basics:
- 1Pour spirits into a cup of sufficient size and level to accommodate the painting tool.
- 2Soak briefly before swishing and lightly pressing against the side of the container to squeeze off excess. Repeat as you see fit.
- 3For tough jobs, pour a fresh cup of spirits and repeat the above steps. If this does not work or you are dealing with dry paint, a paintbrush comb might help.
- 4Use soap and water to finish the wash.
- 5Apply absorbent cloth to the brush and allow it to dry.
How To Clean Paint Rollers
Use a similar procedure with paint rollers, trays, or any other painting tools. Wear gloves and massage the tool to dislodge paint.
How To Clean Spray Paint Guns
It is worth noting that you can thin paint off of paint sprayers, but be sure to finish the process with a soap-and-water cleanse.
What Are Mineral Spirits & How Do They Work?
Specifically, it is a petroleum-derived product [2]. More generally, it is an organic compound–one of many used to thin paint. It is the prime ingredient in paint thinner, as it is an ideal solvent for oily materials as opposed to water-based (as latex paint).
Therefore, mineral spirits remove almost any waxy, greasy stain on practically any surface. However, by itself, it is not highly effective to take off dried and cured paint.
Despite its strength, it is safe for do-it-yourselfers. Just use common sense and handle it properly.
What Should I Know About Working With Mineral Spirits?
Spirits are somewhat volatile (easily inhaled), flammable (promote fires), and toxic to skin and mucous membranes.
Proper safety precautions
- 1Work in a well-ventilated area. (Note: Benzene, a frequent additive to mineral spirit paint thinners, is similarly volatile and toxic.)
- 2Wear gloves and eye protection.
- 3Do not store near flames or electric charge.
- 4Make sure to dispose of mineral spirits properly [3]. Do not pour mineral spirits (or spirits with dissolved paint) down the drain.
- 5Avoid mixing: Using two solvents at once could create an unintended chemical reaction.
Alternatives to Mineral Spirits

Subtle differences aside, all the above are highly effective paint removers.
Mineral Spirits FAQs
Which is stronger: paint thinner or mineral spirits?
Often, “paint thinner” is mineral spirit paint thinner. The most common difference between mineral spirits and paint thinners is purity: Most paint thinner contains spirits along with additives such as benzene.
Can mineral spirits remove acrylic nails?
Maybe, but nail polish remover is usually composed of acetone, denatured alcohol, and other solvents. We don't recommend using mineral spirits on your skin.
Are mineral spirits the same as white spirits?
Yes. This is the UK/Ireland equivalent. Less often, it is called mineral turpentine or petroleum spirits.
Can mineral spirits remove stains from clothes?
Yes, but use sparingly, as it could damage fabric or dyes. Scrape/wipe off as much as possible before treating fabric, and try soaking in soapy water for a few hours first.
Can mineral spirits get dried paint out of the carpet?
Try scraping off as much as you can before treatment. Otherwise, It would depend on the paint type and how dry it is. Since mineral spirits can affect fabric dyes, try to stay right on the stained area.
Can you paint over mineral spirits?
Of course, but not immediately. Mineral spirits dry entirely in about a half-hour. However, most people do a soap-and-water wash before proceeding, anyway.
Will mineral spirits ruin the laminate floor?
It depends. If you are concerned, try testing on a discrete area first, and/or be sure to keep the treatment on the stain itself.
Info about your laminate surface could inform your decision. General rule: For the best outcome, always start cleaning paint spills as soon as possible.
Conclusion
For some projects, to remove paint or successfully clean up, mineral spirits are the best. For others, it is useless–even harmful.
Similarly, it is totally safe when used as directed, but with negligent use, you could cause harm to people, property, and the environment around you.
Mineral spirits paint thinner is a do-it-yourselfer must-have, but knowing when and how to use this chemical is valuable for almost anyone.
References:
1. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/mineral-spirits-uses/
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_spirit
3. https://www.wikihow.com/Dispose-of-Mineral-Spirits