By Mi-Ling Stone Poole –

Dear Mi-Ling: I really have a decorating question, as I have already decorated my daughters room for high school, but we had a little accident with turquoise paint; a spill. How do I get dried paint off of very light carpet?

What a nightmare!

Robin W.

Been there done that! I painted my office Ralph Lauren Red and I spilled red on the cream carpet. I never could get it out. But there are lots of remedies for latex paint. Although none worked for me either, the stain is still there I covered it with a rug for now. I plan on installing hardwood floors in that room in the near future.

The best possible solution is an ounce of prevention. Use painter grade drop cloths and tape around the base boards. As you know prepping is key to a successful project and can cut down on accidents although sometimes they can’t be avoided.

I’ve heard everything…some people have tired mineral spirits, glass cleaner, pledge and nail polish remover, dish soap and just blotting the spot with a damp cloth. However, I can’t recommend any of these remedies.

Consider pulling up the carpet to see if the stain soaked into the pad. You might have to replace the pad as well. Sometimes the pad will hold the stain.

If you have any extra carpet you can cut a piece and see if it will blend in. If that doesn’t work contact you carpet dealer and ask for his suggestions. If all else fails find a nice rug for now and deal with replacing it later on down the road.

Do you have a tip on how to clean up paint spills?