Drop cloths are extremely important when painting within your home. Here are a few simple tips that will help you make the right choice when picking out a drop cloth.
First of all, there are a few different TYPES of dropcloths:
1. Paper Dropcloths - comes on a roll. Great to use on tile or hardwood floors. Be sure to tape the Paper Drop Cloth down otherwise you will wind up breaking your back. The paper can slip and slide on the surface.
2. Plastic Dropcloths – this type of dropcloth is good to use on furniture or outdoors. It isn’t necessarily good to use on floors because if paint spills the paint stays wet and can be tracked by from your shoes to other areas of the home.
3. Canvas Dropcloths – Can be used on any type of floors. The best part about these dropcloths is that you can use them over and over again. They come in different thicknesses. The thicker they are the more absorbant they will be.
4. Canvas Dropcloths with Backing – These are the most expensive. They have a rubber backing so they will not slide on slippery surfaces. They are virtually leak proof if you have a big spill. (Yes, big spills DO happen!)
Now that you know the types of dropcloths, which one is the best to use? Do you go with the cheapest once since you probably will only paint once every few years? The answer is NO!
It will be worth it for you to choose a good quality canvas dropcloth. You many need to purchase more than one if you will be working in a good size room. You don’t need to purchase the most expensive one, but don’t buy the cheapest either.
Here are a few tips when using a dropcloth for painting:
- Tape down your dropcloths when working on hardwood or tile. That last thing you want to do is slip and fall and watch the paint can spray paint in all direction (in slow motion). Not good! I know by experience!
- Use old sheets to cover your furniture instead of plastic. You can also tape the sheets or use safety pins if they are not secure.
- At the end of the project, shake out your dropcloths of any dust, then fold and put away. This will keep them nice for years to come.
Here are a few options for you to consider. Click on the link to find out pricing and order easily online.
Paint Essentials 9-by-12-Foot Canvas Drop Cloth
Trimaco 58901 9-by-12-Foot Canvas Drop Cloth
