You’ve probably faced the aftermath of a paint session—dried brushes, stained clothes, frustration. But what if cleanup didn’t have to be a nightmare? Washable acrylic paints can transform your creative process, whether you’re a parent managing kids’ crafts or an artist exploring new techniques. The right paint set makes all the difference. Let’s explore which options deliver vibrant colors and hassle-free washing.
Quick Overview
- Water-based acrylic formulas clean effortlessly with soap and water, eliminating stubborn stains from oil-based alternatives.
- Prompt cleanup immediately after use prevents paint from drying and becoming difficult to remove from surfaces.
- Look for ASTM D-4236 or EN71-3 certified paints that guarantee non-toxic, washable formulations for safe use.
- Matte finish acrylics work on various surfaces while remaining easy to wash from skin and clothing.
- Premium sets like Shuttle Art offer creamy consistency for smooth application, while budget options provide excellent value.
| Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set 50 Colors |
| Best Overall | Number of Colors: 50 colors | Bottle Size: 2oz/60ml | Non-Toxic & Safety Certified: ASTM D-4236 & EN71-3 standards, non-toxic, acid-free | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Apple Barrel Acrylic Craft Paint Set (16 Colors) |
| Best Value | Number of Colors: 16 colors | Bottle Size: 2oz | Non-Toxic & Safety Certified: Safe for adults and kids | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Crayola Washable Paint Set (12ct) for Kids |
| Best For Kids | Number of Colors: 12 colors | Bottle Size: 16oz | Non-Toxic & Safety Certified: Nontoxic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Cra-Z-Art Washable Classic Paint Bulk Pack (8ct) |
| Budget-Friendly Pick | Number of Colors: 8 colors | Bottle Size: 4oz | Non-Toxic & Safety Certified: Non-toxic, safe | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Nicpro 18 Colors Washable Acrylic Paint Set for Kids |
| Most Versatile | Number of Colors: 18 colors | Bottle Size: 250ml/8.4oz | Non-Toxic & Safety Certified: ASTM D-4236 standards, skin-safe | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Artkey Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colors Professional Artists |
| Professional Grade | Number of Colors: 24 colors | Bottle Size: Not specified | Non-Toxic & Safety Certified: Certified safe and non-toxic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Caliart 24 Colors Acrylic Paint Set with Brushes |
| Best With Brushes | Number of Colors: 24 colors | Bottle Size: 2oz/59ml | Non-Toxic & Safety Certified: Certified safe and non-toxic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set 50 Colors
If you’re hunting for versatility without breaking the bank, the Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set’s 50-color range won’t disappoint you. You’ll get 2oz bottles of premium-quality paint with a creamy texture that mixes and layers effortlessly. The waterproof, fade-resistant formula works on canvas, rocks, wood, ceramic, and fabric, making it ideal for any project you tackle. With its non-toxic, acid-free composition meeting ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 standards, you can paint confidently. Whether you’re a beginner, enthusiast, or professional artist, this set delivers excellent coverage and lasting results. Customers rate it 4.7 out of 5 stars, and it ranks #7 in art paints for good reason.
- Number of Colors:50 colors
- Bottle Size:2oz/60ml
- Non-Toxic & Safety Certified:ASTM D-4236 & EN71-3 standards, non-toxic, acid-free
- Water-Based & Easy Cleanup:Waterproof, fade resistant, permanent
- Suitable Surfaces:Canvas, rocks, wood, ceramic, fabric, etc.
- Target Audience:Beginners, enthusiasts, professional artists, students
- Additional Feature:Largest color selection (50)
- Additional Feature:Premium creamy texture
- Additional Feature:Fade resistant & permanent
Apple Barrel Acrylic Craft Paint Set (16 Colors)
The Apple Barrel Acrylic Craft Paint Set is your ideal choice if you’re looking for an affordable, beginner-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on versatility. You’ll receive 16 vibrant colors in 2 oz bottles, including essentials like white, black, and primaries, plus fun shades like Jack-o-Lantern and Key West. The matte finish works beautifully on wood, Styrofoam, plaster, and terra cotta. You can brush, stamp, stencil, or sponge these paints onto your projects with ease. Best of all, cleanup takes just soap and water, making this set perfect for both adults and kids. It’s proudly made in the USA, offering quality crafting without breaking your budget.
- Number of Colors:16 colors
- Bottle Size:2oz
- Non-Toxic & Safety Certified:Safe for adults and kids
- Water-Based & Easy Cleanup:Easy cleanup with soap and water
- Suitable Surfaces:Wood, Styrofoam, plaster, terra cotta
- Target Audience:Adults and kids
- Additional Feature:Made in the USA
- Additional Feature:Stampable, stencilable application
- Additional Feature:Matte finish
Crayola Washable Paint Set (12ct) for Kids
Parents, teachers, and caregivers looking for safe, reliable craft supplies for young artists should consider Crayola’s Washable Paint Set. You’ll find twelve vibrant colors in easy-squeeze 16 oz bottles that won’t intimidate small hands. The water-based formula washes effortlessly from skin and most clothing, eliminating cleanup stress. With nontoxic ingredients, you can feel confident letting kids create freely during art projects, birthday parties, or classroom activities. The long-lasting, richly pigmented hues deliver professional-quality results without the professional-grade price tag. Whether you’re stocking an art room or sending supplies home, this back-to-school essential provides everything you need for worry-free creative expression.
- Number of Colors:12 colors
- Bottle Size:16oz
- Non-Toxic & Safety Certified:Nontoxic
- Water-Based & Easy Cleanup:Water-based, washable from skin and clothing
- Suitable Surfaces:Kids’ art projects (general)
- Target Audience:Kids, teachers, classrooms, preschool, elementary school
- Additional Feature:Easy squeeze bottles
- Additional Feature:Specifically for kids
- Additional Feature:Back-to-school essential
Cra-Z-Art Washable Classic Paint Bulk Pack (8ct)
For kids who crave creative freedom without the cleanup headache, Cra-Z-Art’s Washable Classic Paint Bulk Pack delivers eight vibrant colors that’ll wash right out of clothes, skin, and brushes. You’re getting red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, and black—32 ounces total across four-ounce bottles. This exclusive Amazon bundle suits birthday parties, holiday gifts, and everyday craft sessions. Backed by thirty years of Cra-Z-Art experience, you can trust these non-toxic, USA-made paints to inspire creativity safely. Whether your kids tackle school projects or explore artistic expression at home, you’ll appreciate how easily you’ll clean up afterward.
- Number of Colors:8 colors
- Bottle Size:4oz
- Non-Toxic & Safety Certified:Non-toxic, safe
- Water-Based & Easy Cleanup:Washable
- Suitable Surfaces:General craft use
- Target Audience:Kids
- Additional Feature:Bulk 4oz bottles
- Additional Feature:30 years brand experience
- Additional Feature:Amazon exclusive bundle
Nicpro 18 Colors Washable Acrylic Paint Set for Kids
Kids who love creating art without the mess will thrive with Nicpro’s 18-color washable acrylic paint set. You’ll get 250 ml bottles of vibrant, assorted colors that dry to a matte finish, making cleanup effortless with just water. The paint meets ASTM D-4236 safety standards and works perfectly for finger painting, posters, crafts, and DIY projects at home or school. Its water-based formula is non-toxic and skin-safe for toddlers and young children. You’ll also receive a color wheel guide to help develop mixing skills. With 144.64 fluid ounces total, you’re getting excellent value for classroom or party activities.
- Number of Colors:18 colors
- Bottle Size:250ml/8.4oz
- Non-Toxic & Safety Certified:ASTM D-4236 standards, skin-safe
- Water-Based & Easy Cleanup:Water-based, washable
- Suitable Surfaces:Canvas, poster, DIY projects (general)
- Target Audience:Kids, toddlers, young children
- Additional Feature:Largest bottle size (250ml)
- Additional Feature:Color wheel included
- Additional Feature:Skin-safe formula
Artkey Acrylic Paint Set 24 Colors Professional Artists
Whether you’re an experienced artist seeking professional-grade materials or a beginner exploring your creative potential, you’ll find the Artkey Acrylic Paint Set delivers exceptional quality across all skill levels. This 24-color collection features vibrant, fade-resistant paints with smooth consistency that won’t crack or peel. You’ll appreciate the butter-like texture for effortless mixing and quick drying times. The tightly sealed bottles prevent leakage and oxidation, while clear color labels guarantee easy identification. Water-based formulation means you’ll clean up with simple soap and water. You can apply these versatile paints to canvas, fabric, wood, ceramics, rocks, metal, plastic, and plaster. Whether you’re creating DIY art, crafts, or seasonal decorations, this professional-grade set handles any project you tackle.
- Number of Colors:24 colors
- Bottle Size:Not specified
- Non-Toxic & Safety Certified:Certified safe and non-toxic
- Water-Based & Easy Cleanup:Water-based, easy cleanup with soap and water
- Suitable Surfaces:Canvas, fabric, wood, ceramic, rock, metal, plastic, plaster
- Target Audience:Kids, adults, art lovers, amateurs, beginners, professionals
- Additional Feature:Butter-like consistency
- Additional Feature:Quick-drying formula
- Additional Feature:Leakage-proof caps
Caliart 24 Colors Acrylic Paint Set with Brushes
The Caliart 24 Colors Acrylic Paint Set with Brushes stands out as an excellent choice if you’re looking for a complete, ready-to-use painting solution that doesn’t require you to purchase brushes separately. You’ll get 24 highly pigmented colors in 2 oz bottles with creamy consistency and quick-drying formulas that blend smoothly. The set includes 12 brushes, eliminating extra shopping. These non-toxic, certified-safe paints work beautifully on canvas, wood, rocks, fabrics, and ceramics. Their excellent covering power means you’ll achieve vibrant results efficiently. Whether you’re decorating pumpkins, creating Halloween decorations, or tackling art projects, this versatile set delivers professional-quality results. Caliart backs everything with a money-back guarantee, giving you confidence in your purchase.
- Number of Colors:24 colors
- Bottle Size:2oz/59ml
- Non-Toxic & Safety Certified:Certified safe and non-toxic
- Water-Based & Easy Cleanup:Water-based
- Suitable Surfaces:Canvas, wood, rocks, pumpkins, fabrics, ceramics
- Target Audience:All skill levels (kids through professionals)
- Additional Feature:Includes 12 brushes
- Additional Feature:Money-back guarantee
- Additional Feature:Highly pigmented formula
Factors to Consider When Choosing Washable Acrylic Paint
When you’re selecting washable acrylic paint, you’ll want to evaluate several key factors that directly impact your painting experience and results. Consider the color range and variety available, surface compatibility with your chosen materials, safety certifications for non-toxicity, how easily the paint washes up, and whether the consistency and coverage meet your project needs. Each of these elements plays an essential role in determining whether a particular paint set will deliver the performance and convenience you’re seeking.
Color Range & Variety
Your creative potential expands dramatically when you choose washable acrylic paints with a diverse color palette. A wide color range lets you express your artistic vision without limitations, while sets offering 12, 24, or more unique colors enable greater experimentation and mixing possibilities.
Look for carefully curated selections that include primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, ensuring maximum versatility for your projects. Balanced palettes featuring both warm and cool tones give you flexibility in achieving specific moods and effects in your artwork.
When you select paints with vibrant and muted options, you gain the ability to layer and blend seamlessly. This variety transforms your painting experience, allowing you to explore techniques and color combinations that truly reflect your creative vision.
Surface Compatibility
Because different surfaces—canvas, wood, ceramic, and fabric—have unique properties, you’ll need to match your paint to the material you’re working with. Water-based acrylic paints work well on porous surfaces but may struggle on non-porous materials, so consider your substrate carefully.
The texture and absorbency of your surface directly impact how paint flows and dries. You’ll want to select a formulation designed for your specific application. For walls, furniture, and fabrics, satin or matte finishes typically outperform glossy options, providing a more professional appearance.
Don’t overlook surface preparation—it’s essential. Cleaning and priming your material properly guarantees excellent adhesion and longevity. Taking these compatibility factors into account before you start painting saves you time, money, and frustration down the road.
Safety & Non-Toxicity
Safety and non-toxicity should be your top priority when selecting washable acrylic paints, especially if you’re painting with children or applying color to skin and fabric. You’ll want to verify that paints meet established safety standards like ASTM D-4236 or EN71-3, which guarantee they’re certified non-toxic and safe for young users.
Look for labels explicitly stating “kid-safe,” “classroom-safe,” or “non-toxic” formulations. These products typically use water-based acrylic formulas that you can easily wash from skin and most fabrics without harsh chemicals.
Always check ingredient lists to avoid paints containing lead, formaldehyde, or phthalates—harmful substances that pose serious health risks. Confirm the paint’s intended application before purchasing, making certain it’s appropriate for your specific project, whether that’s skin painting, fabric work, or surface decoration.
Washability & Cleanup
Most washable acrylic paints clean up remarkably well with just soap and water, making them far more convenient than oil-based alternatives. However, washability varies greatly between brands and formulas, so you’ll want to check product specifications before purchasing.
Timing matters tremendously when cleaning up. You should remove spills and rinse brushes promptly, as dried acrylic paint becomes increasingly difficult to remove from skin and clothing. The longer you wait, the more stubborn the stains become.
When selecting washable acrylics, consider your specific needs. Children’s crafts benefit from highly washable formulas designed for easy removal, while professional artists might prioritize other paint qualities. Match the paint’s washability level to your intended application for ideal results and minimal cleanup frustration.
Paint Consistency & Coverage
Paint consistency directly affects how easily you can apply your washable acrylics and achieve the coverage you want. A creamy, smooth formula lets you blend colors effortlessly and apply paint without struggle. You’ll appreciate how highly pigmented paints deliver excellent coverage, meaning you’ll need fewer coats to achieve vibrant results.
Quick-drying properties are equally important—they allow you to layer colors rapidly without waiting extended periods between applications. This speeds up your creative process while maintaining the integrity of underlying layers.
Proper consistency guarantees an even, streak-free finish across various surfaces, preventing frustrating application issues. When you can mix and layer colors smoothly, you gain greater control over your desired hues and effects, ultimately enhancing your finished artwork.
Price & Value
Beyond the quality of your paint’s consistency and coverage, you’ll want to ponder what you’re actually paying for when selecting washable acrylics. Start by calculating the cost per ounce or milliliter to identify genuine value rather than relying on price alone.
Examine the complete package: the number of colors offered, pigment quality, and any included accessories like brushes or palettes. Budget-friendly sets work well for casual projects, while professional-grade options suit serious artists needing durability and longevity.
Don’t overlook sales and discounts, which can grant access to premium paints at reduced prices. If you’re committed to painting, investing in a higher-quality set often pays dividends through superior results and extended usability. Weigh your needs against your budget carefully.
