Solvents are smelly, but it is possible to reduce this odour in your studio or workspace. For a low-odour option, you can use Winsor & Newton Sansodor during painting.
If you are looking for a low-odour solvent to clean material after painting, you can use the new Winsor & Newton Brush Cleaner, which removes dried oil, alkyd and acrylic colour from brushes and is water-miscible, so can be used with water.
Many artists paint within their home or in shared spaces. Here are some tips for reducing odours:
- Ensure there is plenty of fresh air, ventilation and circulation in your workspace.
- Do not sleep in your studio without first removing painting materials. In particular, be sure to dispose of unused solvents and dirty rags in fireproof and solvent-proof containers.
- Store all solvents tightly capped when not in use.
- Avoid excessive skin contact with solvents.
- Do not pour out more solvent than you need in each painting session, as it will evaporate into the room.
- Avoid prolonged inhalation of solvent vapours.
- Do not use solvent to wash colour from your hands; use a hand cleanser instead.
Finally, if you want to completely avoid using solvents in your oil painting, you may like to try Winsor & Newton Artisan Water Mixable Oil Colour, which allows you to use water rather than turpentine to thin colours and clean brushes. Artisan has its own dedicated collection of mediums.