The present invention provides surface treated articles comprising a recoatable surface treatment of an acrylic or vinyl polymer that does not change the appearance of the treated surface, and which imparts blocking resistance and/or stain and dirt pickup resistance to the treated surface. The one or more acrylic or vinyl polymer has a number average molecular weight of from 1,000 to 100,000, a glass transition temperature of -10.degree. C. or higher, preferably, 30.degree. C. or higher, and comprises the polymerization product of one or more non-ionic monomer, such as methyl methacrylate, with up to 47 wt. % of an ethylenically unsaturated acid monomer and, preferably, is non-migrating under use conditions. When dry, the surface treatments may form a layer of domains of polymer distributed all over the treated surface, rather than a film. Treated articles include coating or painted articles and elastomer films exhibiting blocking and stain resistance, and uncoated wood, glass, metal or plastic articles and laminates, such as countertops, exhibiting stain and dirt pickup resistance.