How do I use paint stuck in spray can?

Sonya Lenz
by Sonya Lenz

I already soaked the top sprayer thing, used a needle to try and open it up and changed it out with one that works and still I have cans and cans of spray paint that I can’t use because the paint is stuck inside and the nozzle is clogged!

  6 answers
  • Em Em on Apr 05, 2019

    To revive a clogged nozzle, try this trick: First, pull off the nozzle and soak it overnight in a can of mineral spirits or paint thinner. Use a sewing needle or wire from a twist tie to clear away softened paint from the tiny tube at the nozzle bottom; be careful not to enlarge or distort the tube.

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Apr 05, 2019

    Is it clogged in the top of the can where the plastic nozzle pushes in? If so, see if you can get 100% acetone in that little dip.

    Sometimes the paint gets too cold and it ruins it inside the can. I’ve had to throw away paint.

  • Nancy Turner Nancy Turner on Apr 05, 2019

    The propellent may have dissipated from the can if the nozzle isn't blocked. Without the propellent, the paint has no way to come out of the spray can.

  • Russbow Russbow on Apr 05, 2019

    At the ripe old age of 87, I have saved every spray nozzle that was working from cans that went empty. With that collection, I often have one that will work.

  • Debbie Adams Debbie Adams on Apr 06, 2019

    Try putting the can itself in warm water. Then try mineral spirits on the top lid

  • Michelle Leslie Michelle Leslie on Jul 24, 2021

    Hi Sonya, here are a few things you could try - https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-clean-spray-paint-nozzles and nozzles are interchangeable. I often pull the nozzle from another can and use that. The best prevention is to clear the nozzle after you are done painting something. Turn the can upside down and spray for a short while. only gas will come out, thus eliminating paint that could dry in the nozzle.