Top 5 Best Latex Paint Strippers (2023 Review)

Last Updated On September 8, 2023

Are you looking for the perfect latex paint stripper?

You've come to the right place!

In this ProPaintCorner.com guide, you will learn:

  • What to look for in a good paint stripper
  • What you need to know about using a paint stripper
  • Supplies you'll need to use a latex paint stripper

And much more!

Top 5 Best Latex Paint Strippers (2020 Review)

Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use these paint strippers!

Image Product

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CITRISTRIP Paint And Varnish Stripper
  • Works on latex and oil-based paints
  • No harsh fumes
  • Strips multiple layers
  • Works on latex and oil-based paints
  • No harsh fumes
  • Strips multiple layers
View on Amazon

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Mostenbocker’s Lift Off Latex Paint Remover
  • Water based
  • Biodegradable
  • Works on multiple surfaces
  • Water based
  • Biodegradable
  • Works on multiple surfaces
View on Amazon

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Super Remover New Generation Paint Stripper
  • Removes all paints
  • Works in 15 minutes
  • No methylene chloride or NMP
  • Removes all paints
  • Works in 15 minutes
  • No methylene chloride or NMP
View on Amazon

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Dumond Chemicals Smart Strip Advanced Paint Remover
  • Removes up to 15 coats of paint
  • Eco-friendly
  • Zero VOC, no odor
  • Removes up to 15 coats of paint
  • Eco-friendly
  • Zero VOC, no odor
View on Amazon

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Citristrip Paint & Varnish Stripping Gel
  • Strips multiple layers in one step
  • Citrus scented
  • No methylene chloride or NMP
  • Strips multiple layers in one step
  • Citrus scented
  • No methylene chloride or NMP
View on Amazon

Our Overall #1 Rated Pick

Updated On September 8, 2023

Our top choice is this simple spray-on formula by renowned paint stripper brand CITRISTRIP paint and varnish stripper.

This formula is powerful enough to remove layers of paint on one application, but it's not as caustic as some other paint removal formulas.

It's honestly one of the best paint strippers out there for DIY fans, especially if you've never worked with a paint stripper before.

This is a great option for a variety of projects that require you to strip off layers of latex paint.

What Should You Look For In A Good Paint Stripper?

This ultimately comes down to what you're unique project calls for and what your preferences are.

Some people want to avoid using toxic chemicals when possible and they're looking for a more eco-friendly, biodegradable option.

In which case, something like pick #4 on this list is going to be the best option.

However, if you're looking to strip paint off an old boat and you need to break out the big guns, you're going to benefit more from something like our high-end pick (#3) that is more caustic but more heavy-duty as well.

It all comes down to how much paint you need to peel away, how old it is, and how many layers you need to lift off the surface.

It's also important to note that not all paint strippers work on all types of surfaces (and some don't work on vertical surfaces) so be aware of what types of surfaces you're planning to use it on.

Read More >> What Are The Ultimate Paint Strippers Out There?

What Do You Need To Know About Working With Paint Stripper?

There are a few key things you should know before you get started working with a paint stripper.

First things first, it's good to evaluate the type of paint you're stripping. For example, there's the possibility that if you're working in an old house or working with an object that hasn't been painted in a long time, you might be working with lead paint.

If that's the case, it's even more important to use the proper safety gear when working with this paint and with the caustic chemicals in the paint stripper you choose.

Another thing you should know is that, depending on the job, there may be multiple rounds of work required to fully strip the paint.

Sometimes, even the best paint stripper might need the help of some sanding and a heat gun in order to fully release the paint.

Don't be afraid to put in some elbow grease and help the paint stripper loosen up that old paint so it can finally peel away.

Read More >> How Do You Avoid Getting Lead Paint Poisoning?

Did you know: Lead paint was used almost exclusively in homes prior to 1978.  After that point it was banned. However, if you're working with a house build before then, it almost certainly has lead paint.

Supplies You'll Need To Use A Paint Stripper

It's important to know that when working with a caustic formula like a paint stripper, you're working with toxic chemicals that you need to protect yourself from.

Just like spray paint or mineral spirits, you need to protect your lungs, eyes, and skin from coming into contact with these chemicals.

So, before you dive into using your paint stripper, make sure you gather up the supplies below to protect your health!

  • A Paint Respirator
  • Safety goggles
  • Gloves
  • Paint scraper
  • Sandpaper
  • Heat Gu

Our Reviews Of The Top Paint Strippers For Latex Paints

Our top choice is this CITRISTRIP Paint and Varnish Stripper which is an excellent paint removal formula that is still easy to clean up and easy to use.

If you're looking for something with a short learning curve to get the job done, this is an excellent and affordable option to add to your arsenal.

Even if you've never worked with a paint stripper before, this one is easy to use and provides pretty clear instructions that are simple to follow.

If you want something that's going to peel away old paint with heavy-duty action (but without the heavy-duty smell) this is a great choice!

Pros

  • Works on latex and oil-based paints
  • No harsh fumes
  • Strips multiple layers

Cons

  • Some people preferred the effectiveness of the CITRISTRIP gel

Our best budget option on this list is the Mostenbocker's Lift Off Latex Paint remover.

This spray-on formula works on all sorts of surfaces and is great for removing latex paint without damaging painting tools, which also makes it a fantastic option for use on spray equipment, brushes, and paint rollers.

Not only that, but it's a safe alternative to formulas that have harsh, caustic chemicals and it's made in the USA.

This is a fantastic, inexpensive option that's eco-friendly and gets the job done.

Pros

  • Water-based
  • Biodegradable
  • Works on multiple surfaces

Cons

  • Comes in a small 4.5-ounce spray bottle
  • Some users said they needed to use quite a bit of elbow grease for it to work

If you're looking for a more high-end, heavy-duty formula that you can keep and use for years, the Super Remover New Generation Paint Stripper is the one for you.

This formula is incredibly strong, but it still doesn't use any highly toxic chemicals like methylene chloride or NMP.

It's a safer formula that works incredibly fast-acting and it's very versatile. It removes oil paints, latex paints, varnishes, epoxies, shellac, and it also works on vertical surfaces!

Plus, Super Remover has been creating high-quality paint strippers for 40 years so while this formula is a bit more expensive, it's worth it to know that this will get the job done right no matter what type of paint you're stripping.

Pros

  • Removes all paints
  • Works in 15 minutes
  • No methylene chloride or NMP

Cons

  • Some users had issues removing automotive grade paint
  • While fumes are less caustic, it still contains some toxic chemicals so take caution

Our next choice is a fantastic option for those looking for a more earth-friendly option compared to other chemical strippers.

This is a water-based option that is 100% biodegradable and contains no caustic or harsh chemicals but still gets the job done.

Smart Strip has been developing these advanced formulas for a while now and they've created some excellent results.

This formula is safer for the user and it still removes multiple layers of paint but it has way less odor and it still works on multiple surfaces, including brick and wood surfaces.

Pros

  • Removes up to 15 coats of paint
  • Eco-friendly
  • Zero VOC (volatile organic compounds)

Cons

  • Some users needed multiple applications for it to be effective

Our last (but not least) option on this list is the classic CITRISTRIP Paint & Varnish Stripping gel.

This is the gel formula version of the first option on this list and it can be used on metal surfaces, wood surfaces, masonry, and more.

This is a great non-caustic option for indoor use and it has a citrus scent that makes it much more pleasant to work with.

Not only that, but this formula is a bestseller in the paint stripper world because it truly does get the job done, usually in one step.

If you're looking for something strong but not super caustic, this is the paint stripper for you!

Pros

  • Strips multiple layers in one step
  • Citrus scented
  • No methylene chloride or NMP

Cons

  • The citrus scent doesn't completely cover the smell
  • Doesn't cover a super large area (since it's a gel formula)

Our top choice still has to be this easy to use CITRISTRIP formula because it's simple enough to use but it's still strong enough to peel away that old paint with little effort.

Plus, it doesn't reek of caustic chemicals as some paint strippers do, but it's still capable of removing all types of paints and lacquers effectively.

If you're looking for something that's simple to use and won't break the bank, check out the lowest price for this formula on Amazon now!

Final Thoughts On Choosing A Good Paint Stripper For Latex Paints

Now that you know a bit more about the process of stripping latex paints and how to choose the right paint stripper for your job, you should be able to handle your next project no problem!

While any of the paint strippers on this list will probably help you get the job done, choosing the right one for your unique project is going to yield the best results.

As always, happy painting!

Meet Your Pro Paint Corner Author

Ryan Nichols

Ryan Nichols

I first painted professionally in my late teens. I have painted everything from long military base walls to spraying cedar wood siding on cabins in the mountains of Utah. I am also an automotive technician with plenty of auto body and paint experience. In my spare time, I even enjoy artistic oil painting.

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