Nail polish, if it gets anywhere improperly, leaves behind a very stubborn stain with a very rich pigment. The first idea that comes to mind when you need to remove such a stain is to use a nail polish remover. But it can damage certain types of surfaces. For example, plastics or painted objects.

Sante Plus has put together some great tips on how to get rid of nail polish on various surfaces by using local remedies. These can work on fresh stains, but also on dried out varnish.

How to prepare a stain for cleaning

If the varnish does not have time to dry, it should be gently blotted with a paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Do not rub the stain, as this can allow the pigment to penetrate deeper into the surface, especially in the case of stains on textiles.

Dried-up nail polish stains should first be removed with a knife, as far as possible. The less residue on the surface, the easier it is to remove. For some surfaces, this may be sufficient.

What can be used to remove nail polish

Medical alcohol as a strong solvent can remove this type of soiling from most surfaces. It can even be used on plastic, wood and textiles, as well as painted or lacquered surfaces. You should not, however, rub the stain with alcohol. It is better to patiently repeat the treatment with a cotton disc or stick until not a trace of varnish is left.

Duct tape can help remove any dried-on varnish residue. To use it, simply stick it to the soiled area from which you scraped the bulk of the stain and tear it off immediately. Small particles of dry varnish should remain on the sticky side. This treatment should be repeated until the desired result is obtained.

A chemical solvent such as white spirit or petrol can also cope with varnish. In that case, however, it should be tested on an inconspicuous area of the soiled object. Such solvents may, for instance, damage the colouring of fabric. And a further word of caution: such substances should only be used in well ventilated areas.

Hydrogen peroxide can give good results on light-coloured textiles, especially carpets. It, too, should be tested for safety on the soiled item and can then be applied to the stain with a pipette and then picked up with a dry cloth. Rubbing the stain with peroxide is not recommended. It is better to repeat the cleaning process several times.

Hairspray can also be very effective against nail polish stains. Generously spray it on the stain, gently scrub the area with a soft brush and wash off the residue with a damp cloth. A couple of drops of rubbing alcohol can be added to the nail polish to intensify the effect.

White vinegar can remove nail polish on textiles and hard surfaces. It is even gentle enough to clean coloured clothes. It's still worth testing on an inconspicuous area.

On the more resistant surfaces, such as ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles or sanitary ware, you can wipe off lacquer residue with any available soft abrasive. It can be soda, salt or sugar. However, do not rub too hard so as not to scratch the surface. After such cleaning, the dirty place should be rinsed thoroughly. Especially if you clean it with sugar.

Previously OBOZREVATEL told how to properly wash and disinfect wooden dishes, so they last as long as possible.

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