The Common Cleaning Staple That Can Eliminate Fresh Paint Smell From Your Home

Putting a fresh coat of paint in a room looks incredible and can introduce a splash of color that transforms your space. However, a side effect of new paint is almost always a lingering aroma. Since the infamous paint smell is temporary, we often try to deal with and get through a few days of foul odor until we either become nose blind or the scent gradually disappears. Yet we don't necessarily have to suffer through it since one of the best ways to eliminate paint smells is to use white vinegar to help stamp out the odor.

It is often a go-to ingredient for many household messes, stains, and smells. White vinegar can keep your house clean, eliminate pests, and disinfect a bathroom, all from the same basic bottle. Beyond being multifaceted, it is cost-effective. You can purchase a good amount for less than you would spend for any store-bought cleaner or disinfectant. The same goes for retail air fresheners. An added benefit is that vinegar is natural and won't expose your lungs to damaging chemicals often found in commercial deodorizers.

Vinegar is a powerful odor killer, making it a popular choice for tackling fresh paint smells. It mainly works by absorbing the scent since vinegar's acetic acid binds to odor molecules. This helps trap them and prevent them from lingering about. The main culprit behind the paint odor is a group of molecules called VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Vinegar's main ingredient, acetic acid, attaches to these odor-causing molecules, trapping them and pulling them out of the air. This reduces the number of free-floating smelly molecules, making the paint scent less noticeable.

In addition, white vinegar doesn't just trap odors; it also neutralizes them. The acetic acid reacts with certain odor-causing compounds, such as some VOCs, breaking them into less pungent molecules. It disarms the offensive scent and leaves a fresh, clean aroma that neutralizes the harsh paint smell, allowing you to breathe a bit easier.

To begin, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist walls, furniture, and curtains, avoiding over-saturation. Place bowls filled with white vinegar around the freshly painted room. You can also use apple cider vinegar if that is all you have. The wider the surface area, the more effective it will be.

Of course, nothing helps quite as much as fresh air. While vinegar works its magic, encourage fresh air to circulate in the area to help remove paint fumes. Open doors whenever possible to let the fresh air in and the paint fumes out. Also, open all windows, or as many as you comfortably can.

Ceiling fans and box fans can also help increase airflow. Keep in mind that paint odor does not vanish instantly. The vinegar may take several hours or even overnight to neutralize the paint smell fully. Give it at least 24 hours for the paint smell to disappear entirely. If the odor persists, replenish the vinegar bowls and try again.