Best Paint Strippers of 2025

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Paint strippers are a popular solution for removing old paint from various surfaces. These products typically come in liquid or gel form and contain powerful chemicals that break down the paint's bond with the surface. They are ideal for removing paint from large areas, such as walls or floors, and can also be used on smaller objects like furniture or metal fixtures. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when using paint strippers, as they can be toxic and require proper ventilation and protective gear. Overall, paint strippers are a convenient and effective way to prepare surfaces for new paint or other finishes.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Citristrip Stripping Gel 40 oz Cover #TOP 1
Citristrip Stripping Gel 40 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Sunnyside Corporation 2 Minute Remover 63532 Cover #TOP 2
Sunnyside Corporation 2 Minute Remover 63532
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel - 32oz Cover #TOP 3
Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel - 32oz
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Paint Strippers

#TOP 1

Citristrip Stripping Gel 40 oz

Citristrip
ECSG841AM
Orange
Citristrip Stripping Gel 40 oz Cover
Citristrip Stripping Gel, 40 oz.

Citristrip Stripping Gel is designed for easy use and efficiency. It remains wet and effective for up to 24 hours, allowing you to tackle multiple layers of paint in one application. Whether you're dealing with dried latex or oil-based paints, varnish, lacquer, polyurethane, or shellac, this gel can handle it all. You can strip away layers from various surfaces like wood, metal, and masonry, making it a versatile choice for your projects. Plus, it’s free from harmful chemicals like methylene chloride and NMP, ensuring a safer working environment for you.

What We Like
Effective paint removal
Nice citrus scent
Works on old paint
Easy to apply
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
May require multiple coats
Can be a bit messy
#TOP 2

Sunnyside Corporation 2 Minute Remover 63532

2 Minute Remover
63532
Sunnyside Corporation 2 Minute Remover 63532 Cover
2 Minute Remover 63532 Advanced Detailing Liquid Paint & Varnish Remover, 32 Fl Oz

Sunnyside Remover is a fast-acting liquid paint and varnish remover that can remove multiple layers of paint in just two minutes. It is perfect for detailing textured surfaces and can strip up to 25 square feet. What makes this product special is that it is Methylene Chloride free, which means it is safer and healthier for you to use. With its 32 Fl Oz size, you will have enough to get the job done. Whether you are a professional or a DIY enthusiast, Sunnyside Remover is a must-have tool in your arsenal.

What We Like
Effective paint removal
Works well on stubborn stains
Restores items to like new
Easy to use with gloves
What We Don't Like
May require multiple applications
Not effective on thick layers
#TOP 3

Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel - 32oz

DUM-3432
Yellow
Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel - 32oz Cover
Smart 'n Easy Paint & Varnish Remover Gel - Do It Yourself Friendly Paint Remover - Strips Multiple Layers of Acrylic, Latex, Oil, & Water-Based Paints & Varnishes - Orange Citrus Scent - 32oz.

Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel is a powerful yet user-friendly paint stripper that removes up to 15+ layers of acrylic, latex, oil, and water-based paints, varnishes, stains, and coatings from almost every surface such as wood, metal, concrete, and more. It contains no caustic chemicals like Methylene Chloride or NMP, making it easy to use without fuss. Smart 'n Easy is proudly made in the USA with globally sourced high-quality ingredients and is suitable for both DIYers and professionals alike.

What We Like
Easy to use
Good consistency
Pleasant smell
Effective paint removal
Non-toxic option
What We Don't Like
May require multiple applications
Thick consistency can be difficult
#TOP 4

Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover - 1 Quart

027691033322
White
Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover - 1 Quart Cover
Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover - For Removal of Acrylic, Latex, Oil, & Water-Based Coatings - Non-Caustic Formula - Indoor/Outdoor - Contractor & DIY Friendly - 1 Quart

Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover is a paint stripper that can remove up to 15 layers of various types of paints, varnishes, stains, and coatings from almost every surface in a single application. It contains no caustic chemicals, making it easy to use. It has been trusted by painting professionals and is user-friendly enough for all your DIY home projects.

What We Like
Easy to apply
Virtually no smell
Effective on various surfaces
Quick results
Minimal skin irritation
What We Don't Like
Requires additional covering for best results
Smaller quantity in container
#TOP 5

Sunnyside Hi-Speed Ready-Strip Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover

68532
Assorted
Sunnyside Hi-Speed Ready-Strip Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Cover
Sunnyside Corporation 68532 Hi-Speed Ready-Strip Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover, Quart Trigger Spray, Assorted, 32 Fl Oz

The Sunnyside Hi-Speed Ready-Strip Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover is a powerful solution for removing multiple layers of oil or water-based coatings. Its no-drip formula makes it convenient and easy to remove paint without any mess. The remover clings to vertical surfaces, ensuring that it stays wet for a longer period of time, allowing it to effectively break down the paint. In just about 30 minutes, this product starts to work, saving you time and effort. Additionally, cleaning up is a breeze as it can be easily done with water. With the Sunnyside Hi-Speed Ready-Strip Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover, you can effortlessly strip away paint and varnish, making your DIY projects or home renovations a breeze.

What We Like
Effective paint removal
Cost-effective option
Quick drying time
Multiple application methods
Works on various surfaces
What We Don't Like
Strong chemical smell
Messy application process
#TOP 6

Max Strip Paint & Varnish Citrus Stripper

ESA-579
Orange
Max Strip Paint & Varnish Citrus Stripper Cover
Max Strip Paint & Varnish Citrus Stripper - 1 Quart - Strips Multiple Layers - Removes Latex and Oil Based Paints - No Methylene Chloride No NMP Powerful Formula

If you want to remove paint and varnish from multiple surfaces easily and without caustic chemicals, Max Strip Citrus Stripper is the "do-it-yourself" choice. This powerful no-drip gel formula is designed to remove paint, latex, polyurethane, shellac, varnish, acrylic, oil-based coatings and more in usually a single application. It contains no methylene chloride or NMP, making it safe to use without harsh fumes or unpleasant odor. You can use it in confined or small spaces with a fresh citrus scent. Just apply it to the surface and check every 15 minutes until it's ready. Then remove it with a scraper. Max Strip Citrus Stripper is also very effective at removing most kinds of aftermarket paints and coatings, making it the ideal stripping choice. Please note that it is not designed for removal of deck coatings, factory finished, or baked-on coatings like vehicle paint.

What We Like
Effective for removing multiple layers
Easy to apply on vertical surfaces
Minimal dripping when used correctly
Gentler on skin than other options
Works well with patience and technique
What We Don't Like
May require multiple applications
Strong chemical smell
#TOP 7

Peel Away 1 Paint Remover

1160N
Peel Away 1 Paint Remover Cover
Peel Away 1 Heavy Duty Paint Remover - Removes Up to 30 Layers of Lead, Oil & Alkyd-Based Coatings - Complete Removal System Under the Lid - 1 Gallon

Peel Away Paint Remover is a complete removal system that can strip up to 30 layers of old paint, including lead-based coatings. This product is effective on various surfaces like wood, brick, and metal. It's ideal for professionals in commercial settings due to its powerful formula. The package includes everything you need for paint removal, making it convenient and efficient for users.

What We Like
Effective paint removal
Minimal scraping damage
Works with multiple layers
Less drawn-out process
Good for detailed areas
What We Don't Like
Pricey for large projects
Messy application process
#TOP 8

3M Paint and Rust Stripper 03171

3M
3171
Factory
4 inch
3M Paint and Rust Stripper 03171 Cover
3M Paint and Rust Stripper, 03171, 4 in

The 3M Paint Stripper is designed to help you tackle tough cleaning jobs with ease. Its grinding disc effectively removes rust, old paint, and scale from various surfaces, including metal, wood, and plastics. The flexible nylon fiber disc ensures that you won’t have to worry about rust or splintering during use. With its coarse silicon carbide abrasive, you can expect fast cutting action, saving you time and effort. Simply attach it to your electric drill for a quick and efficient way to prepare surfaces for painting or repairs.

What We Like
Effective paint removal
Durable and long-lasting
Fast rust removal
Versatile for tight spaces
What We Don't Like
Can scratch surfaces
Perceived high price
#TOP 9

KLEAN-STRIP Aircraft Paint Remover

QAR2000
Yellowish Orange
1 qt Can
KLEAN-STRIP Aircraft Paint Remover Cover
KLEAN-STRIP Aircraft Paint Remover, Professional Grade Paint Stripper for Cars & Metal Surfaces, VOC Compliant, 1 Quart

KLEAN-STRIP Paint Remover features a fast-acting formula that can strip tough automotive coatings, like epoxies and urethanes, down to bare metal in just 45 minutes. This versatility allows you to effectively tackle various surfaces, including metal and plastics, making it perfect for both automotive projects and general DIY tasks. Designed for professional results, it efficiently handles different types of finishes such as acrylics, lacquers, and baked enamels. Plus, its VOC compliance ensures safe use, even in areas with strict regulations, allowing you to work without harsh chemicals or overwhelming fumes.

What We Like
Effective on metal surfaces
Good value for the money
Easy to apply
Bubbles paint for easy removal
What We Don't Like
Requires multiple applications
Not strong enough for some paints
#TOP 10

Super Remover Paint Stripper (32oz)

1001NG
Quart - 32oz
Super Remover Paint Stripper (32oz) Cover
Paint Stripper (Quart - 32oz) Super Remover New Generation - Safe for Wood, Metal, Concrete & All Type of Paints

The Super Remover Paint Stripper is a powerful solution for your stripping needs. It effectively removes paint without using harsh chemicals, making it a safer choice for wood, metal, and concrete surfaces. You’ll appreciate how quickly it works—often in just 15 minutes—allowing you to tackle multiple layers in a single application. This versatile product can handle various types of coatings, including oil paints and varnishes, making it ideal for any project, whether you're restoring furniture or completing heavy-duty tasks.

What We Like
Effective on multiple finishes
Works quickly and efficiently
Easy to apply and remove
Good for large surfaces
Leaves original surfaces intact
What We Don't Like
Not thick enough for vertical surfaces
May require multiple applications
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What do professionals strip paint with?

Professionals often use caustic or sodium hydroxide liquid chemicals to strip paint. These chemicals can work in as little as 10 minutes or take longer depending on the paint thickness and surface details. They are particularly effective on carved and detailed surfaces.

2. What is an alternative to a paint striper?

Instead of using a paint stripper, professionals also have the option of using blasting methods like sandblasting or dustless blasting. Sandblasting uses dry sand to remove paint from metal and non-metal surfaces quickly. Dustless blasting, on the other hand, uses wet sand and is gentler on the substrate, causing less damage.

3. Is it worth stripping paint?

Stripping paint is often the most effective and long-lasting way to refinish a painted item. Starting over by removing the old paint instead of layering a new finish on top of it can provide more consistent results.

4. What is the safest way to strip paint?

While liquid and gel paint strippers are commonly used, there are also safer alternatives. Manual methods like using a paint scraper to chip away paint can be one of the safest ways to strip paint since no harsh chemicals are involved.

5. Will Goo Gone take off paint?

Goo Gone is effective in removing unwanted paint from various surfaces, including baseboards. It can also be used to clean paint brushes and other tools, even removing dried paint. It works on different types of paint such as wet and dried latex paint, acrylic paint, craft paint, and enamel paint.

Editor's Notes

During our paint stripper research, we found 24 paint stripper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 92,347 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paint strippers list. We found that most customers choose paint strippers with an average price of $16.14.

The paint strippers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paint strippers, including Citristrip, 2 Minute Remover, Safe 'n Easy, Dumond, Sunnyside Corporation. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.