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However, scrapping andsanding away old paintcan be inefficient and damage the underlying surface.

Sunnyside 2-Minute Remover Advanced Detailing Liquid Paint & Varnish Remover atop a decorative peach background

The Spruce

Most paint strippers can be removed with a scraper, steel wool, a cloth, and some water.

Dip the cloth in water and wash away any leftover paint stripper still on the surface.

And that waiting time in the middle can eat up a big chunk of your day.

Citristrip Paint & Varnish Stripping Gel

PHOTO: Amazon

To speed up the process, try this fast-acting paint and varnish remover from Sunnyside Corporation.

It removes several layers of paint in mere minutes.

This paint remover can be used on several different types of surfacesboth wood and metal, for instance.

Sunnyside 2-Minute Remover Advanced Detailing Liquid Paint & Varnish Remover

PHOTO: Amazon

Motsenbockers Latex Paint Remover fits the bill nicely.

When working inside, theres a limit to how well open windows andrunning fanscan ventilate the area.

It also works on other surfaces, such as metal, tile, glass, stone, and masonry.

Motsenbocker’s LiftOff Latex Paint Remover

PHOTO: Amazon

Unlike some paint strippers, MAX Strip’s stripper does not have a strong smell.

Its very easy to apply, and does a great job at removing paint or varnish from wood.

For especially old or thick paint, you might need to do a few rounds of tool.

Dumond Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover

PHOTO: Amazon

It does have a strong odor and is not suited for interior use.

The product is effective at removing both fresh and dried paint.

While there is an odor, the manufacturer notes that the product is biodegradable and low in VOCs.

MAX Strip Paint & Varnish Stripper

PHOTO: Amazon

If you’re specifically working on an indoor job, check outDumond’s Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover.

It doesn’t contain methylene chloride and is odor-free.

tool

The method of tool differs slightly among the various paint stripper types.

Klean-Strip Premium Stripper

PHOTO: Amazon

However, all strippers should be applied with a disposable paintbrush in short brush strokes in a single direction.

When working with wooden surfaces, confirm to apply the stripper with the grain.

Safety

Your safetyand any people or pets nearbyshould be your first priority when using paint strippers.

Krud Kutter Latex Paint Remover

PHOTO: Amazon

Why Trust The Spruce?

Michelle Ullmanis the home improvement/tool expert for The Spruce.

She also considered customer feedback, both positive and negative.

Consumer Products: National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standards, EPA.GOV.