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Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @megsp. It's sensational to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about stripping lead-based paint.
There isn’t a paint stripper I am aware of that is designed specifically just for lead-based paint. Standard paint strippers will remove lead-based paint just as effectively as modern paints. The key difference is not the product itself, but how you protect yourself and how you manage the waste during and after the stripping process.
When working with suspected lead paint, personal protective equipment is essential. You should wear disposable coveralls, a properly rated face mask suitable for fine dust and fumes, safety glasses, and chemical-resistant gloves. It’s also a good idea to have dedicated footwear or shoe covers so you don’t track any residue through the house. Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors if possible.
Before you start, lay down plastic drop sheets under and around the dressing table to catch all paint residue. This is very important because you want to prevent any flakes, sludge, or dust from contaminating the surrounding area. Avoid sanding or dry scraping, as this can create airborne lead dust. Using a chemical stripper keeps the paint wet, which is much safer.
Once the paint has been stripped, all residue, used drop sheets, gloves, and disposable PPE should be carefully bagged up and sealed. Lead paint waste should be disposed of according to your local council guidelines, as it should not go into normal household rubbish in many areas.
If you take your time, use the right PPE, and manage the waste carefully, restoring lead-painted furniture can be done safely. If you’re unsure at any stage, it’s also perfectly reasonable to stop and seek professional advice, especially for sentimental pieces like this.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
