There’s nothing quite like a fresh coat of paint to give your home a new lease on life. But while your walls might be looking ace, that lingering chemical smell can be a proper nuisance. If you’re feeling a bit crook from the fumes or just want your home to smell normal again, here are some brilliant ways to banish that new paint smell from your house.
Why Paint Smells in the First Place
Before we tackle the solution, it helps to understand the problem. Most paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate at room temperature, creating that distinctive smell. While low-VOC and no-VOC options are increasingly common, even these can leave a bit of a pong.
Effective Methods to Clear the Air
Ventilate, Ventilate, Ventilate
Seems obvious, but proper ventilation is your best mate in this situation:
- Throw open all windows and doors to create cross-ventilation
- Set up pedestal fans to push the air outwards
- If you’ve got ceiling fans, set them to rotate anti-clockwise to pull air upward and out
- Keep this up for several days if possible, even when the smell seems less noticeable
Embrace the Power of Plants
Certain plants are brilliant at purifying the air:
- Peace lilies
- Snake plants
- Spider plants
- English ivy
Pop a few around your freshly painted rooms to help absorb those chemical nasties.
The Bicarbonate Soda Trick
This pantry staple is a champion odour absorber:
- Place several shallow dishes of bicarb soda around the room
- Leave for 24 hours, then discard and replace if needed
- For extra effectiveness, add a splash of lemon juice to neutralise odours
Slice Some Onions
It might sound barmy, but onions work a treat:
- Cut a few onions in half
- Place them in bowls of water around your freshly painted room
- Leave overnight and dispose of in the morning
- Yes, it’ll smell like onions initially, but this dissipates quickly and takes the paint smell with it!
Coffee Grounds and Charcoal
Both coffee grounds and activated charcoal are top-notch at absorbing odours:
- Place bowls of used coffee grounds or activated charcoal around the room
- Replace daily until the smell subsides
- As a bonus, the coffee might leave a pleasant aroma behind
Try a Vinegar Solution
White vinegar cuts through paint smells effectively:
- Fill several bowls with white vinegar
- Place around the freshly painted room
- Leave for a few days, replacing as needed
Scented Candles and Essential Oils
Once the worst of the smell has gone:
- Light some quality scented candles
- Use an oil diffuser with citrus oils, eucalyptus (a proper Aussie solution), or lavender
- These won’t just mask the smell but can help neutralise it
Prevention Tips for Next Time
- Choose low-VOC or zero-VOC paints (becoming increasingly available in Australia)
- Paint during the cooler months when you can leave windows open without scorching heat or freezing cold
- Consider natural paint alternatives like milk paint or clay-based options
When to Be Concerned
While paint smell is typically just unpleasant rather than dangerous, if you’re experiencing headaches, dizziness, or respiratory issues, it’s best to:
- Leave the space immediately for fresh air
- Consult a GP if symptoms persist
- Consider staying elsewhere until the smell dissipates
Remember, most paint smells should clear within 2-3 days with proper ventilation, though some high-VOC paints might linger for weeks. If the smell persists beyond a fortnight despite your best efforts, it might be worth chatting with your paint supplier about potential solutions.
At Hammer and Brush, we understand that a beautiful paint job should enhance your living space without compromising your comfort. Our team specialises in using high-quality, low-VOC paints and provides expert guidance on maintaining a fresh atmosphere in your home. If you’re ready to transform your space and need assistance in keeping it fresh and inviting, contact us today for a consultation.
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