Painting Pitfalls

Every husband loves doing a bit of DIY work around the house, but for every new shelf, bench or paint job, there could be a few spills along the way that could ruin your home (but only just a little bit!) However, even the smallest paint drop shouldn’t ruin your rug – or put your husband off being creative around the home. Remember, it’s just as easy to clean up carpet stains as any other kind. Precaution can always save you stress at a later date, so follow our guide to preparing your house for a new lick of paint.

Remove what you can

If you’re working in one room only, or from one room to the next, it’s a good idea to remove as much furniture and other items from the room as possible. This way, you won’t have a problem with tables getting in the way, but you’ll also ensure that none of these items will be on the wrong end of a paintbrush!

Cover everything

However, you might not be able to remove everything. Big items such as sofas and cupboards should be moved to the centre of the room (if they’re not too heavy) and covered with either a plastic sheet, or a dust sheet that you don’t mind getting some paint on. Hopefully you’ll have a large cover to choose from, but they’re relatively inexpensive and can be used in all sorts of ways apart from just being paint covers.

Wear your oldest clothes

Roll up your sleeves and find some old dungarees – painting is hard work, and over a day you might find a few flecks of paint on your shirt or trousers. If you wear something you don’t mind getting paint on, it can make the whole process easier, and more fun.

In case of a spill…

Don’t panic, just act fast. If you can pick up the stain while it’s wet then it’ll be much easier to remove, as opposed to a dried stain. For most paints, the first step is to blot the stain with a wet paper towel. Never rub the stain or scrub it – it will just spread and become tough to remove.

If you have removed most of it, then use Vanish Oxi Action Carpet and Upholstery Pre-Treat Spray on the remainder of the carpet stain. Shake the can well and spray directly over the area. Work the product into the stain with a cloth or clean sponge, then leave for five minutes before washing off as always. If the stain has not completely disappeared, then follow the process once more. Leave it to air dry.