Harriet Wetton
A new coat of paint is one of the cheapest and fastest ways to renovate a room or furniture. It can breathe life into a dull space, make a small room feel larger, or give an old dresser a modern personality. Unfortunately, there may be a lingering smell that can spoil the effect of the new décor.
That sharp, chemical scent isn’t just annoying; it can actually make your new favorite room feel unlivable for a few days. That is why it is important to learn how to get rid of paint smell quickly and safely.
While fresh air is one of the best ways to disperse the smell, it is not always possible to open all doors and windows. Whether it is due to rainy weather, security concerns, or freezing winter temperatures, you sometimes need to find indoor solutions.
This creates a problem mainly for those who are cursed with a sensitive nose or families with young children and pets who spend most of their time indoors.
The suffocating smell has adverse health effects, some of which may even take a significant long-term shape. Many people do not realize that the “new paint smell” actually comes from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). These are gases emitted from certain solids or liquids.
More exposure to the toxic smell, more will be the sequelae. Luckily, there are easy ways that will assist you in how to get rid of paint smell, and that’s what we’re going to discuss in today’s post. But before that, take a look at some of the health problems inhaling the smell of paint can cause:
- Headaches and migraines
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Eyesight problems and blurred vision
- Respiratory problems and shortness of breath
- Eye irritation and redness
- Sore throat and coughing
- Lung irritation
In professional painters exposed to excessive paint smells for a prolonged period, the risks can escalate to severe liver, kidney, and nervous system problems.
Even animals can become infected with cancer or developmental and reproductive problems due to chemical based paint smell. This is why taking care of your pets during a home renovation is just as vital as protecting yourself.
Now that you know how harmful the smell of toxic paint can be, it’s always best to recognize how to get rid of paint smell as soon as possible. Taking proactive steps ensures your home remains a sanctuary rather than a source of physical discomfort.
Understanding the Source of the Stench
Before we dive into the solutions, it helps to understand what we are fighting. Most traditional paints contain solvents that evaporate as the paint dries. This evaporation process releases those VOCs into your living environment.
The smell usually peaks while the paint is wet and slowly tapers off as it cures. However, depending on the humidity and the type of paint used, that “off-gassing” can continue for weeks if not treated properly.
By using the natural neutralizers listed below, you aren’t just masking the scent with another perfume; you are actually helping to pull those chemicals out of the air or breaking them down.
This is a much healthier approach than simply spraying a bunch of synthetic air fresheners, which can actually add more chemicals to the mix.
How to get rid of paint smell
With advanced paint formulation and air purification technologies, things have improved much more than before. You can now buy “Low-VOC” or “Zero-VOC” paints which significantly reduce the initial odor. But still, to be completely safe, it is better to get rid of the paint smell as soon as possible in a natural way.
If you’ve already finished your project and the smell is overwhelming, do not worry. If you’re wondering how to get rid of paint smell, here are the simple and effective tricks to get rid of paint smell using items you likely already have in your pantry.
1. Activated Charcoal
Charcoal is legendary for its ability to absorb smells and toxins. This is the same stuff used in high end air purifiers and water filters.
Therefore, you can put buckets of crushed coal in your home, mainly in the parts where it has been painted. You can find activated charcoal at most hardware or pet stores in the aquarium section.
Within an hour, you will find a significant decrease in the suffocating odor. The porous surface of the charcoal traps the VOC molecules as they float through the air. For instant effects, you can also place them in the room just before the painting starts.
This is a great “pro-tip” for anyone planning a future project. Just like learning how to soundproof a door, preparation is key to a comfortable home environment.
2. Burning Dried Coconut Shells
The coconut’s flammable outer shell is often used in rural areas to get rid of mosquitoes, and you can use this familiar trick to recognize how to get rid of paint smell.
Burning dried coconut shells produces a strong, natural smoky odor that can hide the smell of paint and can give you immediate relief thereafter.
When the shells burn, they act as a natural incense. The carbon produced during this process also helps in neutralizing some of the airborne toxins. However, always ensure you are doing this in a heat safe container and never leave burning materials unattended.
If you are sensitive to smoke, this might not be the best option for you, but for many, it is a traditional and effective remedy.
3. Vinegar
If you want to remove the stinky, toxic smells of paints, you can also use white vinegar, an effective and cheap smell neutralizer.
All you need to do is keep bowls of vinegar in the room where it has been painted. Place one bowl in each corner for maximum coverage.
The acetic acid in the vinegar will slowly soak up the suffocating smell and make the air fresh and chemical-free. While the room might smell slightly like a salad for an hour or two, the vinegar scent dissipates very quickly once you remove the bowls, taking the paint smell with it.
Thus vinegar seems like a nip in the bud regarding how to get rid of paint smell. It is also quite helpful if you are trying to clean white converse or other household items, making it a versatile tool for any homeowner.
4. Onions
Onions may have a pungent smell of their own, but they effectively remove toxic odor from paints. It sounds strange to use a smelly vegetable to fix a smelly room, but the sulfur in onions reacts with the VOCs in the paint to neutralize them.
Take two onions and cut them in half on the rings. Then place the halves in separate bowls with the cut side up. Place the bowls near the rooms where it has been painted.
Store them for several hours to absorb the smell, and then throw them away. Whatever you do, do not eat these onions afterward! They have absorbed the chemicals from the air and are no longer safe for consumption.
5. Candles
Candles can help you remove the toxicity of the paint smell in a very literal way. They burn the solvents of the flammable components and thus eliminate the bad smell.
First, you have to light a candle and put it in a container full of water for safety. Let it sit for a few hours to reduce the stench.
In a few minutes, you will begin to feel the difference. You can also use scented candles to eliminate the smell, although the normal soy or beeswax ones are also beneficial and effective without adding extra artificial fragrance.
However, be extremely careful when handling the candles, especially when children or pets are around, to avoid accidents. Never leave a candle burning in an empty room for long periods.
6. Water Buckets
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. Simply keeping buckets of water can also be enough to help with a fresh paint job. Water naturally absorbs solvent vapors and removes its strong foul odor over time.
This works best if you have a large surface area of water, so using wide basins or several buckets is more effective than a single tall glass.
The more buckets of water you have near the newly painted room, the faster the paint odor removal process. This is a great passive method that requires zero cleanup and zero cost.
So now you do have not to do overthinking about how to get rid of paint smell when you are on a tight budget after a big renovation.
7. Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are amazing for removing odors from paints. If you are a coffee lover, this will be your favorite method.
It would help if you kept the dry coffee grounds in a bowl throughout the room. Freshly ground beans work best, but even used grounds (if dried out first) can do the trick.
Slowly, you will find that the smell of paint is absorbed, and your room is filled with the pleasant aroma of coffee. This is a much better experience than smelling harsh chemicals.
Thus the mystery of how to get rid of paint smell will be sorted out while giving you a reason to brew a fresh pot. It’s almost as satisfying as finally learning how to undo on Mac after a frustrating mistake.
8. Natural Extracts (Vanilla and Peppermint)
Two of the best natural extracts for removing paint odor and freshening the air in your room are vanilla and peppermint. These extracts don’t just mask the smell; they provide a soothing atmosphere that can reduce the stress of a messy renovation.
Place a few drops of the extract on cotton balls and place them in small bowls or saucers scattered around the room. Some paint experts swear they add a drop or two of the extracts directly to the paint can before starting the job to reduce the odor at the source.
This doesn’t affect the color or the finish of the paint, but it makes the application process much more pleasant for your nose.
9. Baking Soda
You can use this inexpensive and readily available baking soda to remove paint odors. This is the same trick people use to keep their refrigerators smelling fresh.
Just put a few small bowls filled with baking soda near freshly painted rooms. Store them overnight, so the smell is fully absorbed.
Keeping shallow water containers with a half cup of baking soda stirred in is also a good idea to know how to get rid of paint smell. However, in the case of carpeted rooms, you can sprinkle baking soda directly on the carpets.
Let it sit overnight to grab those trapped molecules, and then vacuum it up in the morning. This is an excellent way to deep clean your space while refreshing the air.
10. Herbal Vapors
There are few herbs like basil or rosemary with strong odors that can help you remove toxic odors from paint. These plants are natural air purifiers. You can temporarily move your potted herb plants inside your home to counteract the suffocating smell of paint.
If you don’t have live plants, you can simmer these herbs in a pot of water on the stove. The steam will carry the herbal scent through the house, helping to neutralize the paint fumes.
That’s a very helpful and easy way to determine how to get rid of paint smell while making your home feel like a spa. Knowing how to use what you have, like knowing how to thicken tomato sauce, makes home management much easier.
Practical Scenarios: Which Method Should You Choose?
Not every situation calls for the same remedy. Here are a few scenarios to help you decide which trick to use:
- The Bedroom: Use baking soda and natural vanilla extracts. These are gentle and won’t keep you awake with a strong scent like onions or vinegar might.
- The Kitchen: Coffee grounds or vinegar are perfect here since these are already “food smells” that won’t feel out of place.
- Large Living Areas: Activated charcoal is the heavy hitter you need for big rooms. Use multiple buckets for the best results.
- Quick Fix: If you have guests coming over in an hour, lighting a few candles and simmering some rosemary is your fastest bet for a temporary fix.
Safety First: When to Call It a Day
While these tricks are incredibly effective, your health is the priority. If you start to feel a heavy pressure in your chest, a severe headache, or if you feel dizzy, you must leave the room immediately.
No matter how much you want to finish that accent wall, it is not worth your long term health. Switch on a fan, place your absorbers (like charcoal or vinegar), and go for a walk or stay in a different part of the house.
Most paint smells will dissipate significantly within 24 to 48 hours if you use the methods mentioned above.
AEO Section: Frequently Asked Questions
How long does paint smell usually last?
Without any treatment, a strong paint smell can last anywhere from two days to a full week. However, if you use neutralizers like activated charcoal or vinegar, the worst of the odor usually vanishes within 12 to 24 hours. Ensuring good ventilation with a fan can speed this up even more.
Is it safe to sleep in a room that smells like paint?
It is generally not recommended to sleep in a freshly painted room until the smell is gone, especially for children, the elderly, or those with asthma.
The VOCs can cause respiratory irritation and headaches during the night. It is best to wait at least 24 hours and use the baking soda trick before moving back in.
Can I put lemon in the water buckets to help?
Yes! Adding sliced lemons to your water buckets adds a citric acid component that helps neutralize the air while providing a fresh, clean scent. It is a great way to boost the “Water Bucket” method for better results.
Does a bowl of milk really help with paint smell?
Some old-fashioned advice suggests a bowl of milk can absorb odors. While it can work slightly, it is not as effective as vinegar or charcoal. Plus, milk can spoil quickly in a warm room, which might leave you with a different, much worse smell to deal with!
Will these methods work on oil-based paint?
Oil-based paints have a much stronger odor and higher VOC content than water-based (latex) paints.
While these natural tricks will help, you will likely need to use stronger methods like activated charcoal and vinegar simultaneously, and it may take longer for the smell to completely disappear.
Conclusion
Many people have avoided painting their interiors for several years just to avoid the smell of toxic paint. It is a valid concern, and it is true that paint odors are harmful and have many side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and even more serious ones such as lung, eye, throat, liver, and kidney damage.
However, you should not let the fear of a temporary smell stop you from creating the home of your dreams.
Instead of avoiding painting your house, you need to use the right paint and know the proper tricks on how to get rid of paint smell after painting a room. By using natural household items like vinegar, baking soda, and charcoal, you can enjoy your beautiful new décor without the headache.
Whether you are looking for how to be the best employee by staying focused at a fresh desk or just want a cozy living room, these tips will keep your air clean and your home happy. Happy decorating!
