Even though many paint brands are now environmentally friendly and safe, the smell of paint fumes is still toxic, causes headaches, and isn't pleasant. Luckily, you can get rid of paint odors from your home or office using one or more household items.
Step
Method 1 of 4: Using Water
Step 1. Fill a 4-12 liter bucket with tap water
Step 2. Place the bucket of water in the center of the freshly painted room
The water will absorb all the remaining solvent vapor that comes from painting.
Use two or more buckets of water for a larger room or space
Step 3. Leave the bucket overnight or until the paint smell is completely gone
Step 4. Drain the water in the bucket when you're done
This water is not safe to drink or use because it has absorbed the smell of paint.
Method 2 of 4: Using Onions
Step 1. Peel off the outer layer of a medium or large garlic or onion
This type of onion is most effective at absorbing paint fumes.
Step 2. Cut the onion in half with a knife
Step 3. Place each half of the onion in its own bowl or plate and face the cut side up
Use two or more onions as needed for large rooms or spaces
Step 4. Place each bowl on opposite sides of the freshly painted room
The onion will absorb the paint smell naturally
Step 5. Leave the onions overnight or until the paint smell is gone
Step 6. Discard the onion when it's done
Onions are no longer safe to cook or eat once they absorb the paint fumes.
Method 3 of 4: Using Salt, Lemon, and Vinegar
Step 1. Fill 3 or more bowls half full with tap water
Step 2. Add a lemon wedge and 60 ml of salt for each bowl of water
Replace white vinegar with lemon and salt if you don't have one. If using vinegar, mix it with water in a balanced ratio (1:1)
Step 3. Place all the bowls around the perimeter of the freshly painted room
Water, lemon, salt, and vinegar have the ability to naturally absorb paint odors.
Step 4. Leave the bowl overnight or until the paint smell disappears
Step 5. Discard the lemon, water, and other ingredients when you're done
This mixture is no longer safe to use once it has absorbed the paint vapor.
Method 4 of 4: Using Wood Charcoal or Coffee Ground
Step 1. Put on work gloves and crush the charcoal by hand
Otherwise, use a coffee grinder to make coffee grounds.
Step 2. Place the chopped charcoal or coffee grounds in one or more bowls, as needed
Step 3. Place all the bowls around the room or area that was just painted
Step 4. Leave the bowl overnight or until the paint smell is completely gone
Step 5. Remove any bits of charcoal or coffee grounds when you're done
Both are no longer ideal for use because they have absorbed the paint vapor.
