What Can Be Added to Paint to Remove the Smell?

Pure Vanilla Extract

Adding a little pure vanilla extract to paint, the sort of extract that is used for baking or cooking, can help overcome strong paint odors. Before painters begin their work, add one teaspoon of vanilla extract or more per gallon of paint, depending on the preference for the scent. Choose a light-colored or clear extract to ensure that the paint does not get discolored as a result.

Peppermint extract is a good alternative to pure vanilla extract and other natural paint smell removers. It can be significantly less expensive than pure vanilla extract, and thus more budget-friendly for those who have larger areas and/or more things to paint. Only essential peppermint oil should be used because this is clear and will not dull the paint once it has dried. Peppermint extract can give the paint a mint-like odor that will fade over time.

Those using ivory-colored or white paint can opt to use lemon extract instead of pure vanilla or peppermint. Approximately one drop of lemon extract per gallon can effectively cover up the scent of fresh paint when added to paint in the bucket.

BON-CC-41 is an industrial-strength odor-neutralizing compound. It is an effective odor neutralizer that gives the paint a very slight mint-like smell---but this goes away very shortly after the paint is applied. Only a little amount needs to be added while the paint is still in the bucket, approximately 4 to 8 oz per gallon of paint.

Paint SCENTsations is a paint additive that comes in little packets. O-Gee offers a choice of five scents---Sea Breeze, Vanilla Bean, Citrus Squeeze, Clean and Crisp, and Fresh Air. The company recommends adding this paint scent remover to both the primer coat and the topcoat when painting, to ensure effectiveness. This additive also can help eliminate other odors in areas it is used in, for up to 12 months in small areas and 6 months in larger areas.