Difference Between Mineral Spirits and Paint Thinner: Which to Use?
Discover the crucial differences between mineral spirits and paint thinner for your projects. Learn which solvent suits your needs best.
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Mineral spirits is a refined, clean solvent that is less volatile and less odorous, making it ideal for thinning oil-based paints and cleaning brushes. Paint thinner, on the other hand, can refer to a variety of solvent mixtures and is generally less refined, potentially containing additional chemicals. Choose mineral spirits for indoor use and more sensitive applications, and paint thinner for heavier-duty tasks where precision is less critical.
FAQs & Answers
- Can I use mineral spirits indoors? Yes, mineral spirits are less odorous and safer for indoor use compared to paint thinner.
- What is the best way to clean brushes with paint thinner? Soak the brushes in paint thinner and then thoroughly rinse with soap and water to remove all residue.
- Are mineral spirits safe for sensitive projects? Yes, mineral spirits are ideal for sensitive applications as they are refined and less likely to contain harmful chemicals.
- What types of projects require paint thinner? Paint thinner is suitable for larger, heavy-duty tasks where precision is not a primary concern.