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How to Chemically Dissolve Vinyl

Juliana Montgomery

Using a chemical to dissolve vinyl can be an effective way to remove a vinyl surface if used with proper safety equipment and precautions. Acetone is an effective vinyl solvent and can be used to help you dissolve any vinyl surface.

Safety should be a priority when using a chemical to dissolve vinyl.
  1. Go to a local home improvement store and purchase an acetone product. Get an acetone product that is an effective solvent for vinyl and get enough for the surface area that you need to cover.

  2. Open windows in the area where you will be using the acetone on the vinyl. Use in a well-ventilated area.

  3. Wear gloves to prevent your hands from coming in contact with the acetone. Get gloves that can withstand prolonged contact with acetone. Avoid prolonged or repeated contact with the skin.

  4. Place a face-mask over your mouth and nose to help prevent the inhalation of vapors. Irritation can develop with prolonged exposure to acetone and products that have high concentrations of acetone.

  5. Place protective eye-wear on your eyes to prevent acetone from getting into your eyes. Acetone can be a severe irritant if it gets into the eyes.

  6. Pour the acetone into a container that can withstand prolonged contact with acetone.

  7. Soak an old cloth in the acetone and lay it on the vinyl surface. Allow the surface to absorb the acetone.

  8. Scrape the surface with a metal scraping tool to remove the vinyl.

Tip

Depending on the thickness of the vinyl surface, you may need to soak the cloth in acetone and reapply it to the vinyl surface multiple times before you can scrape up all of it with the metal scraping tool.

Warning

Acetone liquid and vapors are extremely flammable. It should not be used near open flames, sparks, or heat. Acetone products can cause serious injury or death if swallowed. Do not mix acetone with other chemicals. Read and follow all manufacturer precautions and warnings before using any acetone product.