The invention relates to a process and an apparatus for extracting droplets of paint from the fine spray or mist in spray booths when sheet metal members or the like are sprayed, without the paint droplets adhering. A calcium chloride solution of 0.01 to 0.5% by weight and having a pH value of 8 to 9.5 serves as washing fluid. To perform this process, the spray booth and the like is followed by a settling or separating vessel in which the coagulated paint droplets floating up with air are separated from the thus regenerated wash solution which can be recycled.