How to Get an Oil-Based Primer Out of the Bathroom Sink

Unlike latex-based primers, oil-based primers are not water-soluble and they require strong cleaning chemicals to dissolve and remove completely. Fortunately, many bathroom sinks are made of materials that won’t get damaged if you use acetone, mineral spirits or lacquer thinner on them. This includes fiberglass and porcelain enamel which are some of the most common materials for bathroom sinks.

Acetone
Mineral spirits
Lacquer thinner
Cloths
Scrubbing brush
Masking tape

Instructions

- 1
  Soak a clean cloth in acetone, mineral spirits or lacquer thinner.
- 2
  Rub the cloth into the oil-based primer stain until the stain is gone or until it is as light as you can get it. If the stain is very old, you may not be able to simply rub it off.
- 3
  Soak the cloth again and lay it over the stain. Tape the cloth to the bathroom sink with a piece of masking tape. Don’t use duct tape as it can leave adhesive residue on the sink.
- 4
  Let the cloth sit for 20 minutes. Remove the cloth and scrub it into the stain until the stain is gone. Scrub to remove any adhesive residue.
- 5
  Dip a soft-bristled scrubbing brush into the acetone, mineral spirits or lacquer thinner if you can still see the stain.
- 6
  Scrub the stain with the brush until it is completely gone.
- 7
  Rinse the area with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.

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