Why Does My Apartment Smell Like Paint?

It’s all due to VOCs (volatile organic compounds) found in the raw materials used to create paint. They also give off a “freshly painted” odor. While you can lessen the likelihood of this happening by selecting a paint formulation with a low level of VOCs, the smell is still present.

Why Does My Apartment Smell Like Paint?

There are many reasons for the smell of paint in apartment buildings. Some of the most commonly cited causes are:

Fresh paint

If your house has recently been painted, the smell of paint you’re experiencing is probably because of the fresh coating of paint. The scent can last for a couple of days or weeks, depending on the paint type and whether the room is well ventilated.

Poor ventilation

If your house does not have adequate ventilation, the fumes from the paint can build up and create a more intense odor than expected. This is a common problem for older structures that might have yet to be constructed with ventilation in mind.

Low-quality paint

Low-quality or low-quality paintings could be more odorous than better-quality brands. This could result from using inferior products or inadequate ventilation in the production process.

The technique of painting

If the painter wasn’t using appropriate ventilation or techniques for application during the painting process, the smell could remain longer than it ought to. Also, if the artist did not allow the paint to dry before closing the doors or windows, smoke could have gotten trapped inside.

Mold

In some instances, a musty or stinky smell that is present within an apartment could be misinterpreted as an odor of paint. If you think that mold could be the reason for the smell and you suspect it is, then you must inspect the area with an expert.

Possible Reasons For Why Your Apartment Smells Like Thinner

To deal with the smell, first you’ll need to determine the source of the smell. Be cautious, as the scent of paint thinner is a harmful particle. Being exposed to it for prolonged periods can cause inflammation and possibly damage the lungs! Below, we will briefly explain why an area may smell like paint thinner.

The Odor Of Paint Thinner Could Be Coming From Your A/C

If you have a complete HVAC system or just an A/C unit, leaks in both systems could trigger an unpleasant smell or odor of paint thinner. If the smell worsens as you approach the HVAC unit, you’ll likely find the source! However, it is recommended to delegate the task to HVAC experts.

It’s not only difficult for people who are not professionals to resolve the problem and fix it, but it could be hazardous because of the electrical components within the air conditioning. Furthermore, the gases utilized in the air conditioning system can be harmful, and prolonged exposure to them could cause health problems.

Lingering Paint Thinner Smell From Recent Paint Job

The most typical reason an area smells like paint thinner is the result of recent painting work within the premises. Even if you didn’t use paint thinners to remove paint, many paints have various concentrations of color thinner to make them easier to apply. Many people forget to clean their glasses after they have been painted, and you should remember to wash off the paint from your glasses. Additionally, the smell increases with low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints since the chemicals permeate the air quickly. The rapid evaporation of VOCs may spread the scent over the painted space. Long-term exposure to VOCs may irritate the nasal cavity, eyes, and cavities.

Volatile Organic Compounds Leaking From Their Containers

If nothing else works and you cannot pinpoint the cause of the smell that comes from the paint thinner, check all of your shelves, drawers, and storage compartments to find a damaged container or other products that contain VOCs. This could include an aerosol, disinfectant spray, chemicals stored in bottles, wood preservatives, and more!

VOCs can quickly enter the air, allowing them to escape their containers. The odor produced by VOCs is extremely paint-like and equally harmful, as it may result in headaches, eye irritation to the eyes, nasal pathways, etc.

How To Get Rid Of Paint Thinner Or Spray Paint Smell Out Of Your House Or Apartment?

Here are some simple and quick DIY tips you can try to eliminate the unpleasant odor of paint thinner.

Water

You can eliminate the odor of paint thinner at home by using only a few water bowls. Therefore, we suggest filling several dishes with water and then putting them in the room so that it has an odor similar to paint thinner. If you store the bowls of water overnight in the fridge, the water will soak up some compounds and neutralize the unpleasant smells as time passes. You can even add a lemon slice to the water bowl for more effective and efficient outcomes.

Vinegar

It’s another essential household item for cooking and cleaning. White vinegar is the most recommended option for eliminating the odor of paint thinners. You’ll need bowls similar to those for water. The first step is to fill the dishes to about half with vinegar, then set them aside for the acids to perform their job in the space where they smell like paint thinner. The vinegar will absorb the smelly components and turn a lighter color in only several hours. For our recommendation of white vinegar to resolve your problem, go to White Vinegar.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent absorber. You can utilize it to eliminate the smell of paint thinner from your home. Sprinkle a little baking soda all over the room to add a scent. It will rest for a while and take the unpleasant smell out of your home. Baking soda is a widely utilized product, and you may possess it at home. But if you don’t, take a look and purchase the one you want from Amazon.

Ventilation

Sometimes, it’s the simplest way to achieve the desired result. Opening the windows and doors to let paint thinner out of the home could suffice to create a house free of paint thinner. This is an intelligent and easy way to ensure your home always looks different.

Can You Cover The Smell Of Paint Thinner?

If one of the strategies mentioned above doesn’t work, it is possible to consider a different method. The best way to do this is to cover your odor with something delicious! It is possible to mask the scent that comes from using paint thinner. We have some suggestions to help you with this, and they will assist you.

Onion Slices

Onions can cause you to cry. However, in terms of masking the smell of paint thinners, they can also make you smile! It is necessary to cut large or medium-sized onions in half. Then, place the slices in the corner of your space. The onion’s chemical will neutralize or hide the scent of paint thinner.

Coffee Beans

It’s not difficult to see that coffee beans have a pleasant scent! And, in the current war with the smell of paint thinner, it could be our little soldiers!

You can set up the bowl of freshly brewed coffee beans around the area. Ensure the lid is kept open, and they’ll absorb all the odor of paint thinner within a couple of hours.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are mainly employed for aromatherapy. However, numerous people use essential oils to make their homes smell great. Many options include lavender, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, etc.

You can put essential oils in an oil warmer or diffuser to mix them with the air. They won’t just reduce the odor of paint thinners but will also help create an energizing, peaceful, and stress-free atmosphere.

Scented Candles

Scented candles perform similarly to candles. They also provide a soothing smell in your home that will mask the smell of paint thinner or any other scent. The candles can be lit for up to a week in a row. That’s enough.

Seeking Professional Help

A strong paint odor in your home can be a bad and unsettling experience. Although it’s normal for apartment buildings to go through painting tasks between tenants or during renovations, the persistent smell can be unpleasant and even hazardous. If you’re experiencing stubborn smells of paint in your apartment, getting help from a professional is crucial. We’ll discuss why your apartment might smell like paint, possible health hazards, and what steps you should take to seek professional help.

Understanding the Causes

There are various reasons your home may smell as if it were painted. The most obvious reason is the recent repainting or painting jobs that were completed inside the apartment. Freshly applied paint releases VOCs, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which create strong odors that can last for days or even weeks.

In certain instances, the paint used could contain more VOCs, increasing the odor. Furthermore, if your home has no ventilation or the painting process wasn’t performed with sufficient airflow, the odor could persist for a longer time.

Health Risks

While the scent of freshly painted paint may be unpleasant, it is important to know the health hazards that can arise from prolonged exposure to fumes from paint. VOCs released from the paint can cause respiratory problems, headaches, eye irritation, dizziness, headaches, and allergic reactions in people who are sensitive. Long-term exposure to excessive levels of VOCs could cause more serious health issues over time.

If you or any other occupants of the residence experience persistent symptoms like difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, or skin irritations, it is imperative to seek out professional assistance to determine the cause and ensure the safety of the air.

Contacting the Landlord or Property Management

If you are noticing a strong paint smell in your residence, the next step would be to call your property manager or landlord. Inform them of the problem and ask for their help in determining the source of the smell. They may be able to provide details on recent painting or other maintenance work within the building.

It is important to record your interactions with the property owner or landlord management, indicating the date and specifics of your exchange, because this information will be useful in the event that any further action is needed.

Hiring a Professional Inspector

If the smell of paint continues or you suspect the smell is caused by other factors that are not related to the recent painting, it could be necessary to employ an expert inspector. A certified specialist in indoor air quality or environmental consultant can examine the quality of the air in your residence, pinpoint the cause of the smell, and examine if there are possible health risks.

If you are hiring a professional inspector, be sure they have the appropriate certifications and expertise in the assessment of indoor air quality. Conduct a thorough inspection of the home, including the testing of air samples for VOCs and other contaminants that could be present.

Remediation and air purification

Based on the findings of a professional inspector, remedial actions could be required to deal with the smell of paint and increase the level of oxygen inside your home. The remediation options include adding ventilation, sealing or encapsulating painted surfaces, or using air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters that remove VOCs from the air.

Follow the advice given by the professional inspector, and cooperate with your property manager or landlord to take the appropriate steps to correct the situation. Be sure that any remediation initiatives are in line with local laws and guidelines.

FAQ’s

Why does my apartment smell like paint after it has been freshly painted?

The smell of paint in your apartment after it has been freshly painted is typically caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in the paint. VOCs are released as the paint dries, and they can linger in the air for a while, causing the strong paint smell.

How long does the paint smell usually last in an apartment?

The duration of the paint smell in an apartment can vary depending on factors such as the type of paint used, ventilation, and temperature. In most cases, the smell will gradually dissipate over time, ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Can the paint smell be harmful to my health?

Breathing in high levels of VOCs from paint fumes can potentially cause health issues such as headaches, dizziness, and eye, nose, or throat irritation. However, the risks are generally minimal, especially if the area is well-ventilated. If you have concerns, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.

How can I get rid of the paint smell in my apartment?

To help eliminate the paint smell, ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and using fans to circulate fresh air. Activated charcoal or baking soda placed in bowls around the apartment can also absorb odors. Additionally, running air purifiers with activated carbon filters can help remove VOCs from the air.

What steps can I take to prevent a strong paint smell during the painting process?

To minimize the paint smell while painting, choose low or zero VOC paints, as they contain fewer harmful chemicals. Ensure good ventilation by opening windows and using fans to exhaust fumes. Consider using a respirator mask to reduce your exposure to paint fumes.

What if the paint smell persists even after taking these measures?

If the paint smell persists for an extended period or if you notice any unusual symptoms, it’s advisable to contact the painting professionals or consult with a building manager. They can assess the situation and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.