If you’re trying to clean an electronic, you will have to be extra careful. Unplug the electronic first, and remove any batteries, if possible.
You only need to soak the parts that have paint on them. Do not soak electronics or items that may get ruined if they get wet.
Dip the sponge into the water and squeeze it after each pass that you make.
If the item can’t get wet, dampen a sponge or rag with water, squeeze the excess out, then use it to wipe the soap and paint residue off.
Consider waiting a full 24 to 48 hours for electronics, just in case water got inside.
Be careful with electronics. Alternatively, soak a paper towel with rubbing alcohol and place it over the painted area for a few minutes. For best results, use 91% or 99% rubbing alcohol.
If you don’t want to use your fingernail, you can try using a flathead screwdriver. Paint scrapers and screwdrivers can scratch certain types of plastic. If you’re worried about this, use your fingernail. It’ll take longer, but it’ll be safer.
For paint scraper/screwdriver on the unpainted area, with the edge touching the paint. For fingernails, make a hook with your index finger, then place your fingernail on the paint, close to the edge.
Keep going until you have most of the paint off. Don’t worry if there is some residue. If you are scraping on a cylindrical item, run your scraping tool down the length of the cylinder. This way, you’re always touching a straight edge.
You can also pat the item dry with a clean cloth.
If you have sensitive skin, it would be a good idea to wear plastic or vinyl gloves. Acetone may damage some types of plastic, such as Plexiglass or vinyl-based plastic. It’s safe for fiberglass and polyester resin, however. [10] X Research source
If nothing happens to the plastic, the solvent may be safe to use. Keep in mind that some solvents may need hours before they have an adverse effect on your item. If the plastic changes color or texture, don’t use the solvent. You might even want to press the area with your fingernail; if you see an indent, choose a different solvent.
Discard the cotton ball when it gets dirty, and use a new one. Acetone evaporates fast, so you’ll have to re-soak the cotton ball often. If you don’t do this, the fuzz will stick the the paint.
Avoid nylon brushes if you are using acetone, or the bristles may melt.
This method works best with paint thinner and household cleaners. You can soak most plastic items in household cleaner for up to 24 hours. If there’s still residue on the item, dip it into the solution, then scrub it again. Think of this as scrubbing dried food off of a plate.
