Latex paint is a type of water-based paint that is popular with homeowners because it can be cleaned up using just water after application. While latex paints don’t stick to surfaces as well as oil-based ones, they are still very durable and long lasting. However, like any surface coating, latex paint will deteriorate over time if it is exposed to certain substances. Here are some of those substances and what may happen if they come into contact with latex paint.

Acetic or Acetic Acid

When acetic acid comes in contact with latex paint, it can cause the surface layer of the paint to soften and peel away over time. This is because acetic acid is a weak acid, and as such it can begin to break down the polymer molecules that make up latex paint. Because of this property, vinegar—which contains acetic acid—is sometimes used to clean latex paints off of brushes and other tools that are used for painting.

Lactic Acid

If lactic acid comes into contact with latex paint, it will cause the paint to yellow over time. This is because lactic acid is a stronger acid than acetic acid, and as such it can break down the polymer molecules in latex paint much faster. Lactic acid is found in milk, so if you spill milk on latex paint, you may see the paint begin to yellow within a few days.

Ammonia

Ammonia is another substance that can cause latex paint to deteriorate over time. When ammonia comes into contact with latex paint, it will cause the paint to become brittle and crack over time. This is because ammonia is a very strong alkali, and as such it can break down the polymer molecules in latex paint much faster than acetic or lactic acid can.

Acetone

If acetone comes into contact with latex paint, it will cause the paint to become tacky and sticky over time. This is because acetone is a very strong solvent, and as such it can break down the polymer molecules in latex paint much faster than water can. Acetone is found in nail polish remover, so if you spill nail polish remover on latex paint, you may see the paint become tacky and sticky within a few hours.

Paint Thinner

If paint thinner comes into contact with latex paint, it will cause the paint to become soft and pliable over time. This is because paint thinner is a very strong solvent, and as such it can break down the polymer molecules in latex paint much faster than water can. Paint thinner is often used to clean up oil-based paints, so if you spill paint thinner on latex paint, you may see the paint begin to soften and become pliable within a few hours.

How to clean latex paint brushes

Maintaining your paint brushes is important not only to keep them in good working condition, but also for the health of your skin. Cleaning latex paints from a brush is fairly easy, and can be done quickly with relatively little effort. This article will show you how to clean up a paintbrush after painting with latex paint.

The first thing to do is rinse the brush off with water. Use warm water if possible, as it will help to loosen the paint. If the brush is extremely dirty, you may need to use a mild soap. Be sure to rinse the soap off completely, as residual soap can damage the bristles.

Once the brush is rinsed, use a brush comb or your fingers to remove any excess paint from the bristles. If there is a lot of paint build-up, you may need to soak the brush in hot water for a few minutes to help loosen the paint.

Once the brush is free of paint, rinse it again with warm water. Use a paper towel or an old cloth to squeeze the water out of the bristles.