Paint Smell Lingering? Here’s How to Get Rid of It

After finishing an indoor painting project, the smell of paint can linger, especially in enclosed spaces. These fumes are caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the paint, which evaporate during drying. While paint smells are most intense at first and usually fade as the paint dries, some people are more sensitive to these odors. Here are some effective ways to get rid of that lingering paint smell:

Prevent Paint Smell from Lingering

1. Use Low or No-VOC Paint: Opt for paints with fewer VOCs to minimize the smell. Brands like Benjamin Moore’s Natura, ben, and Aura offer low or no-VOC options that reduce odors.

Tips to Clear the Air Faster

1. Provide Ventilation: Keep windows open and use fans to draw in fresh air and push out stale air. This is especially helpful while painting, but it may not be ideal during colder months.
2. Follow Re-Coat Times: Wait the full recommended drying time before applying additional coats of paint. Re-coating before the first coat is fully dry extends drying time and prolongs the fumes.
3. Contain Fumes to One Room: Keep the painted room closed off from the rest of the house to prevent odors from spreading. Use barriers or plastic sheeting to help isolate the area.
4. Use an Air Purifier: Air purifiers with HEPA filters and activated charcoal filters can effectively remove VOCs and paint odors from the air.
5. Diatomaceous Earth: This highly absorbent material can help remove odors from the air. Be sure to use filter-grade diatomaceous earth and keep it away from pets and children.
6. Activated Charcoal: Known for its odor-absorbing properties, activated charcoal can quickly reduce paint smells. It works by adsorbing harmful chemicals and VOCs.
7. Baking Soda: Place open boxes of baking soda in the painted room or sprinkle it on surfaces like carpets and furniture to neutralize odors.
8. Onion in Water: Cut onions and place them in water. The pungent odor of the onions can help neutralize paint fumes by absorbing or masking the smell.
9. Paint Scent Additive: Some additives are designed to mask paint odors. These are mixed directly into the paint and can provide a pleasant fragrance for weeks or months after application.
10. Buckets of Water with Lemon: Place buckets of water in the painted room. The water will absorb VOCs, and adding lemon will help mask the odors with a fresh citrus scent.
11. Vinegar: A natural odor neutralizer, vinegar can help eliminate lingering paint smells. Use a 10% white vinegar solution, placing bowls around the room, especially overnight, to absorb odors.

By using these techniques, you can effectively reduce or eliminate the smell of paint, making your space more comfortable and breathable.