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How to Minimize Odor on Newly Painted Furniture

Paint fumes can cause or aggravate an assortment of different health problems, including breathing problems and allergies. Paint smells inside your home can last for days or even weeks. If you are planning on painting furniture for use inside your home, it is important to plan ahead on how to minimize or completely eliminate paint odors on your newly painted furniture.

Things You'll Need

  • Low-odor paint
  • Dehumidifier (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy paint that is specifically designed not to produce odors. Low-odor paints are available from a variety of retailers and manufacturers. The use of low-odor paints will help significantly reduce the amount of paint odor your newly painted furniture will have after you use it.

    • 2

      Wait until fall or winter to paint your furniture to reduce drying and curing time that may be extended due to humidity. If you live in a humid climate, use a dehumidifier in the area where you are painting to speed up paint drying and curing.

    • 3

      Paint your furniture outside or in a well ventilated area. Allow furniture to sit out in fresh air for several days to air out before you attempt to bring it into your home.

    • 4

      Give paint plenty of time to dry. Read the instructions on your paint and find out how long it will take it to cure completely under the conditions you plan on using it in. Wait until the paint has completely dried and cured before using the furniture.

    • 5

      Place activated charcoal, baking soda or an ozone machine in the room with the furniture for several days after painting to help absorb and neutralize any paint odors that may be clinging to the newly painted furniture.