Things You'll Need
Vanilla extract
Peppermint oil
Paint mixer
Candle
Vinegar
White bread
Dish
Paper towel(s)s
Charcoal
Hammer
Fresh paint has a distinctive odor that can often be smelled throughout a home or business and may aggravate allergies or those with sensitivities to certain smells. While the smell of paint will eventually fade once the paint has been applied to the wall or desired surface, many want to kill the smell of paint well before that point. There are a few different techniques to consider using a few items that may be found around the house or can be purchased at hardware or grocery stores.
Step 1
Open the can of paint and stir the paint with a wooden paint stick or other utensil that can be stained. Apply a few drops of vanilla extract to the paint and stir well. Alternatively, add a few drops of peppermint oil to the paint.
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Step 2
Carefully crush a whole piece of wood charcoal, using a small hammer or other utensil, until the charcoal is in pea-sized pieces. Set the pieces in an open container. Wet two or three pieces of paper towels and set the paper towels in the container as well. Set the container in the middle of the room with the fresh paint. Charcoal absorbs odor and should remove or reduce the smell of paint within 24 hours.
Step 3
Place a piece of white bread in a shallow dish and pour some vinegar over the bread. Set the dish in the middle of the room with the paint smell and leave it for several hours, preferably overnight.
Step 4
Set a lit candle on a stable, safe surface in the middle of the room. Leave the candle lit for about two or three hours, if possible. Do not leave the candle unattended and do not use this method if children or pets may disrupt the candle.
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