Home Remedy
Paint Removers for Metal Hinges
There are plenty of ways to remove paint from metal hinges. The method you use will depend on what kind of paint is on the hinges, how long it has been there and the kind of hinges. If you picked them up at the hardware store 10 years ago, you'll take a different approach from if they are a critical design feature of your interior space.
Paint Removal
If the hinges are flaking or peeling, you can start with a wire brush and scraper to remove the paint. A small-gauge brush works well for getting in the crevices of the hinges. Use an old toothbrush if you are concerned about the finish underneath.
If you have trouble getting all the paint off, and if there are remnants that are firmly attached, you can use a solvent-based solution. For latex paint, a household alcohol, such as denatured alcohol, and a rag work well. For oil paint, use paint stripper, a powerful solvent available at any well-stocked hardware store or paint store, to remove the remaining paint. Remove the hinges if you can, and drop them into a jar of the solvent overnight for a complete stripping. It will always be easier to remove the paint if you can remove the hinges from the door. So take this route if at all possible.
Another way of removing the paint that is less toxic than paint stripper is to boil the hinges in a solution of baking soda and water. This will work no matter what kind of paint is on the hinges. Use a pot big enough to hold the hinges so they don't overlap, and be prepared to use the pot in the workshop instead of the kitchen from then on because there could be hazardous materials in the paint that you don't want near food. Put a thin layer of baking soda in the bottom of the pan and enough water to submerge the hinges. Boil the water slowly and low until the paint comes off, usually within 10 minutes or so. If you have any questions about the paint that is removed, consider that it may contain lead and dispose of the remnants properly.
