As a naturally occurring organic solvent often used to make plastics and other industrial products, you might know acetone best as being an ingredient in nail polish remover. If you spill acetone at home it doesn't leave an obvious stain because it's colorless and evaporates quickly. But commercial acetone products contain other substances that make it difficult to clean up after the acetone evaporates, so remove acetone residue quickly after spillages.
Things You'll Need
- Dry, white absorbent cloths
- Rounded spoon
- Dishwashing liquid
- White washcloth
- Dry towel
You can also use a commercial spot removal solution to remove acetone residue. Pretest any spot removal solution for color transfer to the cloth or damage to the carpet in an inconspicuous area. If a change occurs, use an alternative solution. Some spot removal solutions leave residue in the carpet that may attract soil. Use a mist sprayer to prevent over saturation of the area. Always follow the manufacturer's directions.
Acetone may dissolve or damage some plastics, so remove it quickly if it spills onto a plastic surface. Acetone evaporates very quickly, but avoid getting it on your hands. Wear rubber gloves for safe acetone removal. Long-term exposure can be harmful. Don't use any spot-removal solutions in concentrations stronger than those recommended.
Blot the liquid with a dry, white absorbent cloth. Gently scrape up semi-solids with a rounded spoon. Break up solids and use a vacuum cleaner to remove them completely.
Mix 1/4 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid with 1 cup of lukewarm water. Do not use a stronger solution, as it might leave a soap film residue. Do not use laundry detergent, since it may contain bleach that can damage or discolor the surface you are cleaning.
Apply some of the dishwashing solution with a white washcloth to the acetone residue and for a few minutes, work in gently from the edges of the spill to the center. Don't rub. Continue until the spill is completely removed.
Blot the liquid up with another white cloth for as long as it absorbs the acetone solution. You may have to repeat the process until the acetone solution is completely removed.
Rinse the area thoroughly with cold water to remove all detergent residue when the spill is completely removed. Blot with a dry towel to remove all moisture. Ensure nobody walks on the area until it is completely dry.
Tips
Warnings
Tips
- Pure reagent acetone leaves much less residue than paint thinner-grade acetone, but it’s also more expensive.
About the Author
Claire is a writer and editor with 18 years' experience. She writes about science and health for a range of digital publications, including Reader's Digest, HealthCentral, Vice and Zocdoc.