How to Remove a Kool-Aid Stain from Car Paint

It’s unlikely that Kool Aid will stain car paint unless the surface was already damaged, a situation that may have been pre-existing or, alternatively, could have been caused by the acid in the Kool Aid itself. In either case, the only way to fix a damaged painted surface is to sand and buff it. As long as the stain isn’t deep, this method will fix it right up.

• 3000 grit sand paper
• Water
• Meguiar’s Rubbing Compound
• Terry cloth towel
• Car wax or polish (optional)

1. The key is to never allow the sandpaper to rub a dry surface. Always keep it lubricated with water. If it goes dry, add more water, or you’ll end up with a scratchy mess.
2. After moistening the area, add water to the sandpaper until it is wet. Lightly sand the affected area with the WET, very fine, 3000 grit sandpaper.
3. Once the stain is gone, apply a rubbing compound. Use firm strokes with a clean terry cloth towel.  If you use a different rubbing compound, be sure to follow label directions.
4. After you’ve successfully applied the rubbing compound, wipe the area clean and dry with a lint free microfiber cloth.
5. Repeat if necessary.
6. If desired, finish with a coat of wax or polish.

• Ensure that the sand paper stays very wet during the sanding process.
• For very light stains, you may be able to skip the sanding step and remove the discoloration with the rubbing compound alone.
• Make sure you do not over sand the finish. Sanding too hard or using a low-grit paper will cause gouging, and you will likely need to have it professionally repaired.
• Some rubbing compounds require the use of a buffer. You can rent these from home improvement or tool rental stores but be careful – it’s easy to cause a bigger mess if you don’t know what you are doing.
• If you are unsure about completing this process at home, do not hesitate to have the stain professionally removed.