Combat the Smell of Paint



Decorating is enough of a hassle without the cloying odour of paint fumes. Even some low VOC products still seem to smell. But these tips are really simple yet effective!

Steps

  1. Cut an onion in half and place in a dish in the room where you are painting.
  2. If you are taking a break, place your paint brush or paint roller into a plastic bag secured with a twist-tie or rubber band, or wrap it in plastic food wrap film. This reduces odour and prevents the paint from hardening.
  3. If using a paint tray or kettle, place this inside a large plastic bag also.
  4. Keep the lid on the paint container, and place it outside if possible.
  5. Use tray liners or any easily disposable container (empty ice cream tubs are ideal) and dispose of carefully.

Tips

  • Commercial odor control products will also help. BON-CC-41 can be added to your paint. It is a true odor neutralizer and not a masking agent. If used before applying paint to walls, it is very effective!
  • Into a {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} paint can, add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and stir. Use clear vanilla extract; otherwise your paint will be discoloured!

Warnings

  • Avoid washing paint residue into the drains - the smell will linger in drainpipes and is not good for the environment!
  • Do not re-use any plastics afterwards

Things You'll Need

  • Cooking onion
  • Dish or saucer
  • Plastic carrier bags or similar
  • Twist ties or similar

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