How can you remove paint from door handles, electrical outlets, and window hardware?
Reduce the hassle, get the job done! Another DIY tip from Must Own Tools.
How can you remove paint from door handles and electrical outlets?
Have you cheated over the the years, applying paint without removing door handles, and other hardware?
if you’ve got things like door handles, and electrical outlets that over the years you cheated while painting, you didn’t pull them off before you painted, and now you find that there’s actual paint build up on them. AVOID metal scrapers, and screwdrivers when removing paint for two reasons:
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Metal scrapers will almost certainly scratch the surface of a door handle
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Metal will conduct electricity, if you have forgotten to turn off the power to your project, look out! Your chance of getting shocked with a metal scraper or screwdriver is more likely. Must Own Tools recommends using insulated screwdrivers around electricity – even if the power is turned off.
Klein Insulated Screwdrivers
Klein Tools 32288 Insulated Screwdriver, 8-in-1 Screwdriver Set with Interchangeable Blades, 3 Phillips, 3 Slotted and 2 Square Tips
Here are a couple of suggestions on how you can remove paint that has built up over the years.
The quickest way you can remove paint is to use something like a plastic kitchen tool, and very carefully scrape off the paint from the door handle. You can also use a plastic paint scraper or potentially a brush with plastic bristles to remove the paint build-up.
Another Tip from Must Own Tools
Keep Replacement parts organized when changing out parts such as spark plugs, air filters, and more.
Try a sponge with a non-scratch surface
A sponge with a non-scratch surface can also work. You need to be careful that you don’t push too hard to avoid rubbing off the Chrome – the shiny part – that will defeat the purpose of trying to get the paint off, to make the door handle look new again. This is only if you don’t want to go out and buy a new door handle or a new electrical outlet.
Done with your paint removal project? Clean up efficiently with these suggestions, and tools.
Plastic Putty Knife
Plastic Kitchen Scraper
Sponge with a non-abrasive pad
The sponge with a non-abrasive surface removes paint pretty well
Another option to the question. “How to take paint off of outlets and door handles”. Is to try a sponge with a non-abrasive pad on one side. It helps to reduce and remove the paint buildup. It will take some time to get all of the paint off. When finished removing the paint buildup, we suggest cleaning up even more by using a wet sponge with a little Dawn dish soap or some other type of soap and clean up the leftover residue and paint.
Have your decided trying to remove paint from your door handles or outlets is not worth the time and effort?
You can find replacement door handles, and electrical outlets in most national chains such as Home Depot, Lowes, and Ace Hardware. If you have a favorite local hardware store give them a try. If you are like us, and prefer to shop from your couch, here are a couple of options for door handles and electrical outlets on Amazon.
New Electrical Outlets
New Electrical Outlets, Wall Outlets, and Accessories
New Door Handles
Door handles of all different shapes and finishes.
Must Own Tools Hand Tools
Need help with picking the right wrench, screwdriver, pliers or hand saw for your DIY job? Must Own Tools has a selection of tools, where to purchase them and our Blog Articles can help you learn how to use them.
How Do I Remove Paint From Hardware Such As Outlets and Light Switches. DIY Frequently Asked Questions
What type of Paint Scraper Should I Use?
Can I use Paint Remover?
What about using a metal screwdriver?
All I have is a screwdriver?
Plastic, metal or other type of scraper
Use plastic, ceramic, or metal scrapers to remove paint. We find that plastic works best. Metal and Ceramic tools if not used correctly can scratch and leave marks on outlets.
We don't recommend paint remover or other solvents
Paint remover and solvents can leave a film on the outlets and light switches. You don’t want liquids in the outlet, serious electrical issues will follow.
Small metal screwdrivers can fit in the electrical socket
Be careful when using screwdrivers. Be sure the electricity is off. Screwdrives can cause damage to the internal metal parts of an outlet or light switch. The potential for scratching is also greater with metal tools, plastic is a better choice.
Will a screwdriver work to pull wall trim?
Don’t use screwdrivers to pull wall trim. 1) Hard to grab a nail 2) The screwdriver will easily dent and put a hole in your wall 3) Trying to pound a screwdriver behind a wall trimmer, may damage the wall. You may also risk splitting the trim.