What paint to use on windows that will wash off?

When looking to paint windows, especially in a rental property or other temporary situation, it’s important to find a paint that can easily wash off when it’s time to remove it. Harder to remove paints can require sanding or chemical paint strippers which take more time and effort to get the windows back to their original look. The good news is there are several good options for temporary window paints that will wash off easily when needed.

Quick Answer: Best Paints for Windows That Will Wash Off

Here are some quick recommendations for paints that will wash off windows easily:

– Liquid chalk or chalk markers – Made for non-permanent marking on windows and other surfaces. Easily washes away with water when needed.

– Tempera paint – Thick, opaque paint often used by kids for crafts. Usually requires just warm soapy water to remove from windows.

– Acrylic craft paint – Water-based acrylic paint washes off smoothly. Look for child safe/non-toxic options.

– Window FX – Specially designed window paint tends to come off cleaner than standard paints. Window FX is a popular brand.

– Watercolor paints – Translucent paints that are very water soluble and easy to remove from windows with minimal effort.

What To Look For In Temporary Window Paint

When selecting a paint for temporary use on windows, here are some key features to look for:

– Water-soluble – Paints that easily dissolve in water will wash off windows the easiest. Water-based acrylics and watercolor paints are good choices.

– Non-permanent – Specially formulated window paints and chalk markers are designed with removability in mind. Avoid enamels and oil-based paints.

– Thick consistency – Thicker paints like tempera or acrylic craft paint tend to cling to windows better than thinner paints, but will still wash off with water.

– Made for glass – Paints and markers formulated specifically for windows often remove the cleanest. Look for “window” or “glass” on the label.

– For kids – Craft and children’s paints are typically safer and easier to wash off compared to standard decorative paints.

How To Apply Temporary Paint to Windows

Follow these tips when applying temporary paint to windows:

– Clean the glass first with glass cleaner and let dry completely. This will help the paint adhere better.

– Use foam brushes, small rollers, or foam stamps to apply acrylic craft paint. This gives smooth, even coverage.

– Shake up bottles of liquid chalk or window markers well before use. Test on a small area first.

– For liquid chalk, dot on dots close together to fill in larger shapes and designs. Let dry 5-10 minutes before touching.

– Paint in small sections rather than all at once so paint doesn’t dry too quickly before you blend.

– For watercolors, wet the window first, then brush on concentrated paint. The moisture helps the paint spread evenly.

– Allow paint to dry fully (30-60 minutes) before touching or exposing to moisture. This prevents smearing.

How to Remove Temporary Paint From Windows

Removing temporary paints and markers from windows is fortunately a simple process:

– Wait until paint has fully dried before attempting to remove it. Never try removing wet paint from windows.

– For liquid chalk, use a damp paper towel or soft cloth to wipe chalk away. Spray window cleaner may help.

– Acrylic craft paint can usually be scrubbed off with warm soapy water and a soft brush or sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers.

– For stubborn acrylic paint, spray the window with glass cleaner and let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing. Repeat if needed.

– Watercolor paints will re-wet and rinse away easily with water and gentle wiping. Avoid using soap.

– Tempera paint removes best with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Scrape off thicker areas first.

– For window paint pens, wipe with a dry paper towel first to remove excess, then wash with soapy water or glass cleaner while still wet.

Safety Tips When Using Temporary Paints on Windows

When working with paints on windows, keep these safety guidelines in mind:

– Select child-safe, non-toxic paints and markers whenever possible, especially if used around kids. Check labels.

– Avoid using chemical paint stripping products to remove temporary paint. These can be hazardous.

– Wear gloves and eye protection when scrubbing paints to prevent skin or eye irritation.

– Make sure window is closed tightly so paint doesn’t get on edges, frames or hinges. Cover nearby surfaces.

– Ensure paint is completely dry before closing windows to prevent transfer and sticking.

– Rinse sponges, brushes, rags immediately after using to remove paint residue that could stain.

– Dispose of wash water safely, never pouring paint residue down drains where it can harm pipes or septic systems.

– Allow windows to air dry completely before closing after removing paint.

Best Temporary Paint Options for Windows

Here is more detail on some of the best options for temporary, removable paints for windows:

Liquid Chalk Markers

– Also called window chalk markers.

– Available in variety of colors.

– Goes on smoothly, dries fast.

– Washes off glass easily with water or glass cleaner.

– Good control for detailed designs.

– Best for smaller projects.

Chalkboard Paint

– Formulated to turn surfaces into chalkboard.

– Provides chalk-like finish that’s easy to wipe off.

– More work to apply than other options. Requires primer.

– Best for frequently changed designs.

Tempera Paint

– Thick, opaque paint used in kids crafts.

– Wasable but provides good coverage.

– Available in tons of bright colors.

– Needs warm water and gentle scrubbing to remove.

– Very affordable option.

Acrylic Craft Paint

– Dries permanent on some surfaces but washes off glass.

– Water-based, non-toxic, quick-drying.

– Provides smooth vibrant colors.

– Easy cleanup with warm soapy water.

– Good variety of colors and finishes.

Window FX Paint

– Formulated specifically for painting on glass.

– Applies evenly, dries fast.

– Removes cleanly from windows with little residue.

– Markers available for detailed work.

– More specialized product, only for windows.

Watercolor Paints

– Transparent, water-soluble paints.

– Create soft, blended effects on windows.

– Natural pigments can provide unique stained glass look.

– Rinse away easily with water when desired.

– Best for translucent designs.

Creative Ideas for Temporary Window Paintings

Here are some fun ideas for using temporary paints on windows:

– Holiday designs – Paint festive decorations for seasons like Halloween, Christmas, Easter.

– Privacy screening – Use blocks of color paint to partially obscure views.

– Faux stained glass – Outline shapes in black and fill with bright watercolors.

– Painted scenes – Transform window into underwater or forest landscape.

– Letter writing – Paint on inspiring quotes or birthday messages.

– Kids’ artwork – Let children create drawings and color designs on windows.

– Store displays – Promote sales or specials with colorful text and images.

– Etched mimicry – Use white paint to imitate a frosted or etched glass look.

– Window mural – Paint a giant connecting scene across multiple pane windows.

Conclusion

With the right temporary paint that’s formulated to wash off glass easily, it’s simple to create short-term decorative or artistic looks on windows. Avoid using oil-based enamels or permanent art paints. For the best results, select a paint that’s specifically designed for temporary window application, like liquid chalk markers, tempera, or removable window paint. With some simple cleanup using warm water, soap, or glass cleaner, you can easily erase painted windows and return them to their original transparent look when needed. Get creative with paints that wash off to display holiday greetings, promote your business, decorate for a party, or just enjoy a new colorful view for a little while.