How to Keep Solvent Odors to a Minimum while Painting

As I have stated before, I am a solvent-free painter (even if this week I was tempted to use some).

If, however, you do use solvents while painting, as most painters do, here are some tips for minimizing the effects of your solvent's harmful vapors:

1. Fresh air, ventilation, and circulation are key to             keeping vapors minimized.
2. Do not sleep in your studio.
3. When not in use, make sure all of your solvent's lids     are tightly closed.
4. Avoid excessive skin contact with solvents.
5. Do not use solvents to clean your hands of paint.
6. Do not keep your solvent containers open for longer         than necessary.
7. Do not pour out more solvent than is necessary for your day's project, as any extra will only evaporate into the room.
8. Introduce house plants, such as Peace Lilies and Snake Plants which can help minimize air pollutants and toxins, into your painting area.

I borrowed the above tips from Winsor and Newton. To read a little more click here. To read more about the top toxin-removing plants, click here. I will write a separate post about good, easy-care house plants that are ideal for painting spaces.

For more about painting check out my main Tips and Techniques page.