Acetone vs. Mineral Spirits: Key Differences Explained

Learn the key differences between acetone and mineral spirits for cleaning and painting tasks.

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Acetone is a powerful solvent that evaporates quickly and is commonly used for removing nail polish and cleaning tasks, whereas mineral spirits are milder, slower-evaporating solvents used for thinning paint and cleaning brushes. While acetone is more aggressive, mineral spirits are less harsh and better suited for delicate surfaces.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is acetone primarily used for? Acetone is mainly used as a solvent for removing nail polish and cleaning various surfaces.
  2. Can mineral spirits be used to clean paint brushes? Yes, mineral spirits are excellent for cleaning paint brushes and thinning oil-based paints.
  3. Is acetone safe for all surfaces? No, acetone can be too harsh for delicate surfaces; mineral spirits are usually a safer choice for those.
  4. How do the evaporation rates of acetone and mineral spirits compare? Acetone evaporates much faster than mineral spirits, which makes it more aggressive in application.