If your home looks dated or needs updating, a fresh coat of paint can instantly transform a room. And if you’re learning how to paint a room like a proor calling decorators, you’ll probably want to know how to get rid of paint odors during the job.
Paint fumes can be unpleasant and linger for days, depending on the type of paint used. Additionally, if exposed to paint fumes for an extended period of time, this may trigger potential or existing respiratory problems or allergic reactions. And while the best option is always to open windows or doors, it can be problematic when you have limited windows or lack adequate ventilation.
Luckily, there are some quick ways to eliminate paint odors when decorating, to make it less potent. These include natural products that absorb lingering odors in the air, eliminating paint odors.
So if you want to enjoy your freshly painted room fume-free, try one of these quick ways to eliminate paint odors when decorating, according to an interior expert.
1. Choose Low VOC Paint
When choosing The best paint for your interior finish., it is always advisable to use paint with low or no VOC. If you must use an oil-based paint or primer, opt for a low-odor type.
“VOC means volatile organic compounds, high-VOC paints emit more toxic fumes into the environment,” says Joshua Houston, paint expert at Home Quotes. “These are harmful if inhaled, especially to children, pets and people with respiratory conditions such as asthma.”
“Low-VOC paints not only ensure healthier living conditions, but are also more environmentally friendly and reduce the carbon footprint. They are priced similarly to standard paint, so don’t let the thought of breaking the bank put you off.”
Another useful tip is not to paint on a humid day. High humidity will slow down the drying process and the paint releases the strongest odor when applied and waiting to dry.
2. Baking soda
When it comes to household cleaning tricks, baking soda is a must-have ingredient and is found in most kitchen cupboards. Baking soda is not only good for cleaning, but it is also a natural deodorant that quickly absorbs bad odors.
“Baking soda is something found in most home closets, but what many don’t know is that it is an excellent odor absorber. Pour the soda into several different plates and then place them around the room you painted. Leave it for 24 hours and then dispose of the baking soda properly. You should start to notice a fresher, more neutral smell.”
For more tips on the powers of baking soda, check out 10 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Clean With Baking Soda. As long as you take note of 7 things you should never clean with baking soda, to avoid damage.
3. Activated carbon
Similarly, charcoal is another excellent natural odor absorber and can work well to eliminate paint fumes in your home. Activated charcoal can be purchased in small bags or in a crushed formula placed in bowls around the room like this charcoal odor absorber for strong odors ($17, Amazon), or even inside smelly shoes!
“Coal is very affordable. Place charcoal plates around the painted room, before leaving them overnight to work their magic.”
4. Leave out the bowls of lemon water.
In addition to being a refreshing drink, adding a few slices of lemon to a pitcher of water can absorb VOCs and leave it smelling fresh. Although water is enough to absorb odors on its own, lemons will give the air a citrus scent.
Just keep in mind that the water takes a little longer to work, so it is advisable to leave the bowls of lemon water in the room overnight.
If you enjoy a spicy, citrus fragrance in your home, here are 9 things you didn’t know you could clean with a lemon.
5. Scented candles or essential oils
Another quick way to eliminate paint odors is to light scented candles to scent the air. There are non-toxic candles available, made from essential oils or natural soy wax, like this highly scented candle that eliminates the smell of fresh linen ($14, Amazon), to eliminate fumes.
“Another solution is to use candles to control bad odor. Light some candles around the room and let it get to work. Be sure to check the candles regularly to avoid the risk of fire.”
Be sure to always place candles in a safe place, on a flat, even surface, and out of the reach of children or pets.
However, if you don’t want to light candles or don’t have space to place them safely, you can simply squeeze a few drops of essential oils onto cotton balls and place them in small bowls or saucers around the room.
6. Air purifier
Of course, if you want to ensure clean, odor-free air at all times, invest in one of the best air purifiers to remove and filter VOC vapors.
“You can turn them on as soon as you start painting; This will minimize the amount of paint fumes left behind once you have finished the paint job. They can cost less than $150, making them a very affordable piece of machinery for the average person.
Also, if you want to get the most out of your machine, follow these 7 ways to get more out of your air purifier and the reasons why you need one in your home.
7. Turn on your electric fan
If you don’t have enough ventilation or an air purifier, a quick way to eliminate paint odors is to use an electric fan. Aiming at an open window or door will help expel paint fumes from your home.
“If you’ve had the windows and doors open for a few days to ventilate, but the paint smell still lingers, add something that encourages movement. An electric fan is a great way to remove paint fumes from your home. Place the fan in a position that points toward a window or door, then turn it on. This should eliminate any leftover odor that refuses to go away.”
Depending on your needs, electric fans are reliable and affordable, like this 16-inch pedestal floor fan from Amazon Basics ($40, Amazon), which comes with a timer, remote control and convenient, quiet operation.
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