How to Strip Paint from Floors

Clean off any fresh paint that comes into contact with the floor using a paper towel. Carefully blot the paint with the towel to remove it. Refrain from spreading the paint by wiping the floor with the towel, which will make the paint more difficult to remove.

Add two to three drops of liquid dishwashing detergent to a bowl. Fill the bowl with warm water. Dip a clean rag into the soap solution and wipe the area that contains the paint stain with the rag to saturate the stain with the solution.

Use the edge of a credit card or a window scraper to scrape away the paint. Continue scraping until you have removed all or as much of the paint stain as possible.

If you are unable to remove all the paint using the technique outlined in step 2, use a measuring cup to pour ¼ cup of lemon juice and ¾ cup of rubbing alcohol into a bowl. Pour some of the solution onto the paint stain. Use a butter knife to scrape away the stain. If this fails to completely remove the stain, place an old toothbrush into the solution. Then, use the toothbrush to scrub the paint stain. Wipe away any residue with a clean towel.

If all else fails to remove the stain, use paint thinner to clean off the paint. Follow the paint thinner's manufacturer's instructions to determine the proper application procedure. Take care when using paint thinner, as it may remove your wood finish.