How to Get Polyurethane Out of Clothes

Last Updated on 8 months by Susan Mayrich

Removing stains from clothes can be a real challenge. You have to try different detergents, cleaners, and stain removal methods to see what works. 

Without a doubt, one of the most difficult stains to remove from clothing is polyurethane. The most common reason for this is that it can be very difficult to get out of clothes without leaving behind a greasy mess.

But there are some methods that have proven to be very effective in removing stains from clothes.

This article covers some of the best ways to remove polyurethane from clothes. Continue reading to learn more.

Can You Remove Polyurethane from Clothes?

Polyurethane can be removed from clothes with the help of the best stain remover. The best way to remove polyurethane is by using a solvent-based product like acetone or lacquer thinner.

If you want to remove polyurethane from clothing without damaging it, then you should use an enzyme-based cleaner.

You need to first use a solvent-based cleaner on the polyurethane and then let it sit for 10 minutes before washing it off with cold water.

How to Get Polyurethane Out of Clothes

Polyurethane can be removed from clothes with the help of the best stain remover. The best way to remove polyurethane is by using a combination of hot water and detergent. 

Does Vinegar Remove Polyurethane?

Yes, vinegar will remove polyurethane. Vinegar is a natural acid. It is used to preserve and clean many things, including the skin. If you have polyurethane on your clothes or skin, you can use vinegar to remove it.

Using Vinegar to Remove Polyurethane from Clothes

1. First, mix one part vinegar and three parts water in a spray bottle. 
2. Then apply this mixture to the area where you want to remove the polyurethane. 
3. Gently rub vinegar and water into the stained area.
4. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry with a soft cloth. 
5. Repeat this process until all of the polyurethane has been removed from your clothes.

Will Paint Thinner Remove Polyurethane?

Yes, paint thinner can be used to remove polyurethane from clothes. The process is simple: You will need a paint thinner with 85%+ alcohol content, a rag, and some elbow grease.

The paint thinner should be mixed with water, then applied to the polyurethane with a sponge or brush.

Removing Polyurethane from Clothes with Paint Thinner 

1. To begin, start by scrubbing as much as possible of the polyurethane from the clothes.
2. Next, pour the paint thinner into a bowl or container that you have designated for this purpose. 
3. Now take your rag and dip it into the paint thinner and apply it to the affected area.
4. Start rubbing at one end of each item of clothing until all of the polyurethane residues have been removed.
5. Wash the fabric with dishwashing detergent and let hang to dry.

Does Acetone Remove Polyurethane?

Acetone or nail polish remover can be used to remove polyurethane from clothes. Acetone is a strong solvent that will dissolve polyurethane and you can use it to clean your clothes. 

Acetone strips away the top layer of polyurethane, allowing it to be washed off. The acetone can be applied with a damp cloth or sponge, or by rubbing it on with your fingers or a brush.

Using Acetone to Remove Polyurethane

1. To use this method, pour a small amount of acetone onto a rag or cloth and rub it onto the surface you want to clean.
2. Gently scrub off any residue with a soft-bristle toothbrush until everything is removed from the surface of the piece you are cleaning.
3. You can then wash with warm water and soap to remove any remaining residue left by acetone.

Using Detergent

Step 1: Scrape off the glue with a spatula or spoon, and then dab up any excess with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Step 2: Leave the garment to soak in cold water overnight. This will help soften the glue and make it easier to remove in the morning.

Step 3: Rub some detergent into the stain and wash it as normal in your washing machine. Cold water is best for removing glue from fabric because it stays cooler than hot water and helps prevent shrinking too much.

Step 4: Let it dry naturally by hanging the garment somewhere out of direct sunlight so that any remaining moisture evaporates away completely before you put it away again.

Using Rubbing Alcohol

1. Soak a paper towel with rubbing alcohol in a plastic bag or bowl.
2. Place the soaked paper towel on the affected surface and gently rub it in a circular motion for about 10 minutes.

1. Let the solution sit for at least 20 minutes before washing away any residue with water or detergent.
2. Wash and dry the item, as usual, to remove any remaining residue from the adhesive remover.

Use WD-40 

The most effective method of removing polyurethane from clothes is to use a product called WD-40 Multi-Use Product. This product is a versatile lubricant that can be used on many different surfaces, including wood and plastic.

Scrape off polyurethane from the clothes with a spatula or spoon. Then spray it on the affected area. Gently rub the area with a soft cloth or paper towel. Let it sit for 15 minutes allowing it to penetrate into the stain. Wash with dishwashing detergent and dry hang the garment to air dry if possible.

How to Get Polyurethane Off Hands

Polyurethane is easy to remove, but not so easy to get off your hands. If you have polyurethane on your hands, here are some tips:

Step 1: Apply mineral spirits, vegetable oil, or denatured alcohol to the area where the polyurethane has accumulated. Rub this into the area until it is gone.

Step 2: Wash your hands with dishwashing soap and warm water. Do not use any type of soap that contains abrasives that will cause more damage than help when removing polyurethane from your hands.

If this does not work, try soaking your hands in warm water for about 30 minutes to help loosen up any additional deposits on them.