Nail Polish from Fabric and Carpet

Both nail polish and polish remover can damage fibers seriously, especially acetate. If the spill occurred on fabric or carpets that contain acetate, you'll need to call a professional cleaner.

When you're trying to remove nail polish from fabric, carpeting or upholstered furniture, you have two problems: the first one is removing the polish and the second one is removing the color stain left in the fibers.

Both nail polish and polish remover can damage fibers seriously, especially acetate. If the spill occurred on fabric or carpets that contain acetate, you'll need to call a professional cleaner.

Pre-test area first…

Some dyes are not colorfast to polish remover. So, before you put polish remover on a fabric, test it by applying a drop or two in an inconspicuous area. If there's no damage to the spot, use the following suggestions to remove the polish.

If the nail polish is still wet…

Absorb as much of it as possible on a dry cloth or tissue. Be careful not to spread the stain. Then, go over the stained area with a nonflammable cleaning solvent. Apply solvent with quick, light motions. Wipe the stained area repeatedly with a cloth dampened in clear water.

If the nail polish has hardened…

Apply polish remover to the stained area with an eyedropper. Wait a few minutes for the polish remover to penetrate and soften the polish. If necessary, repeat the treatment.

Alternative steps for removing hardened nail polish.

• Using a spoon with a dull edge, scrape off as much polish as possible.
• Then: apply polish remover to the stained area and blot the excess.
• Go over the stained area with a cloth saturated with nonflammable cleaning fluid.
• Use light, quick motions
• Wipe the stained area with a cloth dampened in clear water
• Don't forget, always pre-test before you use nail polish remover on any fabric or carpet.

For more information on removing nail polish from fabric and carpet; contact your local County Extension Office.