Natural Spray Paint Removal

Power Washing

• Power washing uses spray equipment that emits pressurized water. The water hits the surface at speeds up to 1,500 lbs. per square inch (psi), which is strong enough to remove spray paint. Using "blasting media" with the water helps to remove the paint. Blasting media include rough objects that shatter when they hit the painted surface and break the paint. Natural blasting media include ground walnut shells, baking soda, dry ice pellets and sand. Use hot water when pressure washing metal surfaces because the heat expands the metal, which helps in the paint removal process. Do not use a psi higher than 500 on antique furniture or other delicate objects.

Hand Scrubbing

• One of the safest, but also most tiring, options for natural removal of spray paint is simply scrubbing off the paint. No chemicals or solvents are involved with this method, which negates the concern of ruining the painted surface. The best tool to use depends on the surface. Remove spray paint from glass surfaces using a razor blade; scrape the paint from the glass with the razor blade positioned at an angle. Sandpaper works for wood surfaces. Use coarse sandpaper unless the paint is on antique or delicate furniture, and then use fine sandpaper. For metal surfaces, use wire brushes or steel wool. Dip the brush or wool in hot water before scrubbing the painted metal.

Soy-Based Paint Remover

• Soy-based paint removers safely remove many types of paint, including lead-based paint. Made from soybeans, they are environmentally safe. They are a gel that captures the paint so that paint particles are not released into the air. Spread a coating of the remover on the painted surface, and let it sit on the surface for the required amount of time according to the product manufacturer's directions. Wipe the remover from the surface, and the paint goes with it. Soy-based paint removers work on surfaces such as metal, concrete, wood and brick, but do not use them on plastic or rubber surfaces. Despite their natural ingredients, the removers might irritate sensitive skin. Wear gloves when working with soy-based paint removers.

Washing Soda

• Washing soda, which is usually in the laundry detergent aisle of grocery stores, is sodium carbonate made from table salt and limestone. It has many uses, such as in glass-making, cleaning detergents, baking, taxidermy and toothpaste. When mixed with water to make a rough paste, the washing soda removes paint from surfaces. Rub the paste mixture over the paint, and let it sit on the paint for several hours. Rinse off the paste, and the paint will rinse off with it. Another way to remove the paint is to use the washing soda as a cleaner. Mix the soda with water, and scrub the painted surface with it using a wire brush or steel wool. Although safer than chemical paint removers, washing soda is slightly corrosive. Rinse the washing soda completely from surfaces to prevent corrosion.

Mud Poultice

• Removing spray paint graffiti from trees is a difficult task. Knives and brushes are used to remove painted bark. Paint removers, even eco-friendly ones such as soy-based paint removers, harm trees and could kill them. Power washing is also risky because the water pressure will remove bark. Because removing spray paint from a tree is difficult, cover the paint instead, such as with a mud poultice. Mix soil with water to make the poultice. Let it dry on the tree, and let rain rinse off the mud. The mud stains the tree a natural color and covers the paint. Over time, the paint will fall off the tree.