What is a tack cloth used for?

• A. Removing dust before painting
• B. Absorbing excess paint
• C. Priming the surface
• D. Conditioning the surface

Answer: (A)

Tack cloths are used to remove fine dust from a surface just before painting. After sanding, tiny particles can cling to the surface and, if left, can become embedded in fresh paint and ruin adhesion and finish. A tack cloth is a very lightly sticky fabric designed to lift and trap those dust nibs without leaving residue, giving you a clean, ready-to-paint surface.

It isn’t for absorbing excess paint, which would require a clean rag or roller and appropriate technique. It also isn’t used for priming or conditioning the surface; priming is applying a primer layer, and conditioning involves preparing the surface with cleaners or other treatments. The best practice is to use the tack cloth after sanding and before applying primer and paint to ensure the finish is smooth and defect-free.