10 Best Paint Strippers 2026 in the United States

The Wagner Spraytech FURNO 500 is an electric heat gun designed for paint stripping and various household projects, offering a versatile alternative to chemical paint strippers. It features 12 adjustable temperature settings from 150°F to 1200°F, allowing precise heat control, which is great for gently removing paint without damaging the surface. The digital display and push-button controls make it simple to switch between temperature and airflow levels, supporting different applications beyond paint removal, such as bending plastics or softening adhesives. This heat gun comes with two nozzles: a glass protector for shielding sensitive surfaces from direct heat, and a flare nozzle for distributing heat over narrow areas, adding flexibility depending on the task. In terms of safety, the FURNO 500 is ETL Listed, meaning it meets recognized safety standards, reducing risks like overheating or electrical hazards common in cheaper models. However, because it uses high heat, it requires careful handling to avoid burns or damage to delicate surfaces.

Cleanup is straightforward since it doesn’t rely on chemicals that leave residues or fumes, making it a cleaner option if you’re sensitive to mess or odors. The corded design ensures consistent power but limits portability compared to battery-operated tools. Weighing 2.75 pounds, it’s fairly lightweight for handling extended projects. This heat gun suits users comfortable working with tools who want a chemical-free, adjustable solution for stripping paint or doing related crafts. Beginners should exercise caution with heat settings and surface compatibility. The product offers precise control, safety features, and multi-use capabilities, though it demands attention during use and isn’t ideal for quick, portable jobs.

Citristrip Stripping Gel is a gel-type paint remover that works well for those needing to strip multiple layers of paint in one go. Its main strength is its long working time—staying wet and active for up to 24 hours—so you don’t have to rush the process and can tackle thick or multiple coats efficiently. It removes a wide range of finishes, including latex and oil-based paints, varnishes, lacquers, and shellac from wood, metal, and masonry surfaces, making it versatile for many projects.

A big plus is that it avoids harsh chemicals like methylene chloride and NMP, which means it’s safer to use and produces fewer strong fumes compared to some other paint strippers. Application is straightforward since it comes as a gel that you spread directly on the surface. However, because it works slowly, it’s not the best choice if you need quick stripping. Cleanup involves scraping off the softened paint and washing away residue, which is typical for gel strippers but can require some effort.

Some users report a lingering citrus smell but find it more pleasant than chemical odors. This product suits DIYers or professionals who value safety and time flexibility over speed, especially when working on delicate surfaces or multiple paint layers.

The TPmax 4.5-inch stripping discs are designed as an abrasive tool to remove paint, rust, oxidation, and other surface contaminants. These discs fit standard 4.5-inch angle grinders and come in a pack of five. Made with a durable fiber mesh base combined with resin and diamond grit, they offer strong wear resistance and long-lasting durability, making them suitable for heavy use on metal, stone, wood, and fiberglass surfaces.

Because they use diamond grit at a very fine level, they clean surfaces effectively without causing damage or excessive scratching. The discs operate with less dust and noise compared to some other abrasive tools, which can make the working environment a bit safer and more comfortable, though proper precautions like eye protection and ventilation are still important. Since these are abrasive discs rather than chemical paint strippers, they don’t involve harmful fumes or complicated cleanup—just brush away any residue after use.

These discs require an angle grinder to work and aren’t suitable for delicate or curved surfaces where precision is needed. They provide a fast and efficient mechanical stripping method, ideal for users who want to avoid chemicals and prefer a tool-based approach. These TPmax stripping discs are a solid choice for those needing a quick, gritty solution for removing paint, rust, or oxidation from tough surfaces, especially if you already own or plan to use an angle grinder.