Acetone, Mineral Spirits and Paint Thinners
Whether you’re preparing for painting or wrapping up the job, having the right paint thinners, chemicals and additives on hand is essential. Paint thinner is also key when you’re using a paint sprayer that can’t handle thicker paints. Find different thinning solutions for oil- and latex-based paint, enamel, and lacquer, many of which are available in a fast-dissolve formula for easy mixing. Check out our guide — How to Use a Paint Sprayer — for more tips on using these tools.
The job isn’t finished until you’ve cleaned up. Use mineral spirits to clean up spills and splatters from stain, varnish or oil-based paint. Don’t forget to clean your tools — make brushes, sprayers and rollers last longer by using a lacquer thinner or paint thinner made especially for tool cleanup.
Some paint thinners have a strong smell, so choose a low-odor or odorless paint thinner if you’ll be working indoors or in a tight space. Wherever you use paint chemicals, be sure to wear protective equipment and properly ventilate the area as you work.