Mineral spirits, which will do nothing more than remove any grease tht might be on the cabinets, will have milder effects on your body and nervous system, but it will have some effects The above things came off of various web sites and were just copied and pasted. Homeowners use mineral spirits to clean tools and auto parts, typically by using a rag soaked in the solvent. Part of the confusion comes from the fact that Mineral spirits or paint lacquer thinner … which is better? Mineral spirits mix well with water-based paints, and they can strip a surface very thoroughly if you need to clean up an old paint job. 0 0. Throw it away in a lined metal garbage can and dispose with the rest of your trash. It is highly effective at cleaning paint brushes and painting tools, provided that you take care not to let the paint dry before cleaning. Acetone has a powerful, distinctive odor that most people find pungent. While similar, these solvents aren't synonymous. Once again, be careful about where you apply acetone as a cleaner. Mineral Spirits, Acetone, Paint Thinners (i.e. Is mineral spirits and acetone the same thing? The pharmaceutical and textile industries are two of the largest consumers of acetone. It still appears strong enough to thin all common oils, varnishes and oil paints. There are important differences between the two solvents, though. Mineral spirits, on the other hand, has a relatively inoffensive scent reminiscent of kerosene and quickly became more popular than turpentine after its introduction. Acetone tends to be more aggressive and can remove old, dried paint. Learn more. Brad Nailer vs Finish Nailer: Which is Best for Your Needs? Often, the manufacturer has completed extensive testing to determine what works best so you don’t have to. Naphtha is a stronger solvent than mineral spirits, but this is rarely significant in wood finishing. Naphtha is another solvent that is a good step between mineral spirits and the more aggressive acetone. You can use mineral spirits to lubricate sharpening stones and to thin oil and wax, as well as to clean either of these substances from tools and surfaces. Acetone is an organic compound, also known as Pronanone, which is colorless, volatile, flammable liquid. I have read to thin it with whatever the can lists to use to clean up with, (which is mineral spirits) but I have read here to use acetone with rustoleum paint up to 10% when roll and tip and up to 25% when spraying. The Smell. Source(s): www.medfordpainting-or.com. While the two solvents do have a similarity as thinners and cleaners, ultimately they are different solvents and need to be treated as different solutions to different problems. Rubber Cement. While you may seem to confuse these two solvents as a result of having the same functionality, they are actually different. You have to take care not to breathe in something over the top, as it can cause numerous destructive reactions, including passing. Users will want to be mindful of the safety hazards associated with acetone, but assuming they can navigate that consideration they will be in good shape. Mineral spirits has a less pungent odor than acetone, especially odorless mineral spirits. relatively low acute toxicity whether it is breathed in, ingested, or splashed on the skin, but it is an irritant that can cause However, just because they are similar does not mean they are interchangeable. IIRC, mineral spirits is the same thing we could buy at most any gas station 30 or so years ago as Varsol, for maybe 40cents/gal. So, what exactly is the difference, and which is best suited for you? Mineral spirits, also known as Stoddard solvent, petroleum spirit, or white spirit, are a petroleum-based single solvent that are sometimes used as a substitute for turpentine in thinning paint and cleaning surfaces and paintbrushes. Acetone is an 0 1. bookout. I personally think hoppes #9 works much better than Min Spirits. 4 Mineral Spirit Substitutes You Can Make at Home. Whether you’re doing a deep clean or a paint project, chances are pretty decent that you will reach for one or both of these handy resources at some point. You need to Most people confuse between mineral and acetone spirits the main reason being that they both are used as thinners. Paint Thinner vs. Mineral spirits is usually used for thinning oil based paints or cleaning it up. Distilled from pine tree resins, turpentine was used for paint thinning and cleanup but has an unusually foul odor. For cleaning brushes, paint thinner is best since it’s half the cost of mineral spirits and basically works the same. Mineral spirits are typically benzene (a different alcohol compound) Benzene is not an "alcohol compound". Ultimately, mineral spirits will probably be better suited for do-it-yourself paint jobs. Odorless mineral spirits and mineral spirits generally have the same properties and uses, but odorless mineral spirits is Acetone is used in shops of all kinds as a lacquer thinner and degreaser. Ultimately, mineral spirits will probably be better suited for do-it-yourself paint jobs. The acetone removes the mineral spirits and then dries out quickly after spinning or shaking the brush. However, mineral spirits is not compatible with water-based products. Odorless varieties are also available. Very small quantities can be disposed of easily, as when disposing of acetone used for removing nail polish. Due to the ingredients, paint thinners may be dangerous when inhaled, hence not be inhaled over a long period of time. Mineral spirits thins oil-based paints while acetone thins lacquers such as nail polish. The Essential Hand Tools List: 46 Different Types Everyone Should Own, 7 Smart Uses for Sawdust – Recycling & Reusing Ideas. Use this chart to make sure your rubber or O-ring seal material is compatible with your environment. Mineral spirits are generally more affordable and are readily available. Mineral spirits and acetone are not the same. Mineral Spirits vs Acetone: Which one is right for you? If you have spent time in a household with people who paint their nails, then you can probably recognize the smell of acetone almost immediately, as acetone is the primary ingredient in most nail polish removers. Similarly, both acetone and mineral spirits are useful for cleaning a variety of messes on tools, in the shop, and around your house. They're used for cleaning, thinning and dissolving stuff. Acetone has low acute and chronic toxicity and is Additionally, mineral spirits is not water-soluble and presents less of a fire hazard than acetone. It will, however, slowly evaporate. It is used as a paint thinner so often that it is sometimes sold under the generic name "paint thinner." Mineral spirits thins oil-based paints while acetone thins lacquers such as nail polish. 1 0. Screen printing services use mineral spirits to clean the leftover ink from their screens so that they can reuse them for the next project. Just be careful when you use it! Varsol) and Methyl Hydrate are some solvents. Then, pour off the mineral spirits into a clean container. Colour Trends 2019; Colour of the Year 2018. Minerals spirits is very versatile and has a surprising number of applications. 4 years ago. both are used as thinners. Mineral spirits is recommended after the stripping solution because it's important to break down those waxes before getting started. Can Acetone or Mineral Spirits be used to wipe down a sanded project prior to finishing. Mineral spirits are distilled from petroleum. Acetone is water-soluble but both its liquid and vapors are highly flammable. Here are some of the key differences between the two: 1. Mineral Spirits vs Denatured Alcohol to Clean Wood. Both mineral spirits and denatured wood are appropriate for cleaning wood. Acetone can be quite useful as a cleaning agent. Mineral Spirits Versus Acetone December 25, 2020 - 3:10 am Ecolink A USA Chemical Supplier December 24, 2020 - 4:34 am Video Jet Printers December 24, 2020 - 2:32 am Acetone helps ensure that medication is the proper strength. Functionally, though, mineral spirits and odorless mineral spirits perform similarly. The purity and low toxicity of mineral spirits allow it to expand its role well well beyond a small paint job. The Smell. Acetone is a popular cleaner and solvent that is used in the home, as well as in industrial labs all over the world. Short answer = You'll need solvents! On projects where a water-based product will be used, we recommend cleaning with Acetone which evaporates quickly and removes any residue. IIRC, mineral spirits is the same thing we could buy at most any gas station 30 or so years ago as Varsol, for maybe 40cents/gal. Furthermore, acetone is one of the most readily-available solvents — water is one of the only solvents that is more common. stand oil combined with mineral spirits. just my experience, your results may differ. Other than the price, the differences between the two solvents are subtle: Both are petroleum products. Acetone is harmful stuff. Basically, both acetone and methylated spirits are organic compounds. It’s a clear, liquid solution that can be used for anything from stripping paint to removing nail polish. The mineral spirits left after the toluene and xylene are removed is sold as “odorless” mineral spirits. Acetone, on the other hand, is used to thin lacquer. Both mineral spirits and lacquer thinner are highly flammable, and you should use neither solvent near open flame or a source of high heat. 10 years ago. Pour a small amount of mineral spirits … Mineral Spirits. Mineral spirits is strong enough for any normal operation. Additionally, mineral spirits is not water-soluble and presents less of a fire hazard than acetone. 5 years ago. Its ability to quickly break down and soften nail polish shows why it is valuable in other contexts, as well. People use mineral spirits to soften adhesives, strip paint, thin paint and even perform cleaning tasks. It is frequently used to Paint Thinner vs Mineral Spirits • Though mineral spirits are a kind of paint thinner, paint thinners are in general considered more toxic than mineral spirits. It is also used for thinning both interior and exterior oil-based varnishes, oil-based paint and can be used in wiping wood stains. Some The above things came off of various web sites and were just copied and pasted. Another good choice for gentle cleaning is denatured alcohol. Other than the price, the differences between the two solvents are subtle: Both are petroleum products. Also called propanone, acetone is a colorless liquid with a powerful odor. As noted above, mineral spirits and acetone are used to thin different products. People mostly confuse them and use one for the other. Similarities between Acetone and Paint Thinner. From my personal experience the mineral spirits were not much of a help in breaking down the carbon. Acetone Paint Thinner. Because of this, people usually save it for bigger jobs. However, if you have a house with pets or children, you will need to be mindful of where you store your acetone. – Jim Stewart Jan 5 '19 at 14:16 Apparently mineral spirits is actually methtylated spirits in Australia and New Zealand. To get the most out of each solvent, and to make sure that you do not damage important surfaces, tools, or household items, you should learn the differences between mineral spirits and acetone so you use both properly. Mineral spirits are a type of solvent typically used for parts cleaning and machine washing. 1. Many people also find the smell of mineral spirits, especially odorless varieties, less offensive than the pungent smell of acetone. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as an authorization to use or an inducement to practice any patent, trade secret or other intellectual property right. Both are excellent for cleaning up paint spills, for example. Acetone's solvent strength makes it the most effective solvent for removing masking tape and stickers that have been stuck to a finish for so long they no long peel off. Lacquer thinner is just that, a solvent for lacquer. The vapors are … This is because it is a very strong oil-based solution. The best thing to do is just have cheap brushes that you only use for the contact cement. Additionally, mineral spirits is not water-soluble and presents less of a fire hazard than acetone. Don't let it get anywhere near your (finished) guitar! We have extensive experience with the production and use of mineral spirits and would be happy to assist you further. So, what exactly is the difference, and which is best suited for you? Blog entry by Eddie Elizondo: posted 01-27-2015 07:02 PM: 25690 reads: 2 times favorited: 14 comments: I just got thru making a Guitar stand and after sanding I would like to get all of the dust off of it. Acetone is also popular because the Environmental Protection Agency has not regulated its use very heavily. Depending on the job, one might be preferable to the other — and in some contexts, one might cause some serious problems. As noted above, mineral spirits and acetone are used to thin different products. Mineral spirits My name is Adam and I write for HealthyHandyman. Acetone is a specific alcohol compound. It’s the residue from mineral spirits that makes washing so time-consuming, because of the number of washings necessary to remove it. THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO. People also use mineral spirits to clean a variety of messes that other cleaners struggle with, like the sticky residue left behind from price tag and scuff marks on the floor. Mineral spirits or paint lacquer thinner … which is better? The list of painting products is endless. It helps to go into the selection process with as much information as possible. No need to do whole desk in acetone or MS . Despite its pungent odor, it can get the job done if you need to strip paint, thin lacquer, or degrease a surface. Minerals spirits has a distinct smell similar to kerosene that many find inoffensive. People who find its odor offensive can use an odorless variety of mineral spirits. © Copyright 2021 HealthyHandyman. Lv 4. On the other hand, mineral spirits are not so good for general cleaning because they do leave behind a residue. Paint Thinner . It is effective in a variety of situations, and homeowners and business owners alike find it useful to keep around. So, what exactly is the difference, and which is best suited for you? Varsol) and Methyl Hydrate are some solvents. Mineral spirits is recommended after the stripping solution because it's important to break down those waxes before getting started. Source: bobvila.com. a variety of symptoms, and care should be taken to avoid exposure. Mineral spirits dry a bit slower than solvent--usually two to three hours. Acetone or Mineral Spirits for Rustoleum. Mineral spirits will dissolve only paint that is still fresh. Mineral Spirits vs Paint Thinner – Key Differences. Mary. Rust-Oleum spray … You may also want to note that this is a very economical solvent. Instead of throwing out mineral spirits after a single use, you can recycle it with very little fuss. Ultimately, mineral spirits will probably be better suited for do-it-yourself paint jobs. The best way to find out would be to ask at a local paint store, but I suggest paint thinner, turpentine, mineral spirits would all refer to the same or slightly different solvents in a group that would all work. 1 0. As the go-to solvent for cleaning paint brushes and other painting equipment, mineral spirits is a painter's friend. The best thing to do is just have cheap brushes that you only use for the contact cement. Mineral Spirits vs Acetone: Which one is right for you? The question of acetone vs. lacquer thinner will depend on your intended use. Solvent Recommendation: Murphy’s oil and soap (use with a light grade steel wool.) Brenntag makes no warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained herein or as to fitness of any product for any particular purpose. removes permanent marker rather easily. Use in the beauty industry As noted above, mineral spirits and acetone are used to thin different products. When people get used to using one as a thinner, they sometimes start using the other for the same application and are disappointed when they do not get the same results. Most mineral spirits have kerosene like odor though new, refined mineral spirits have been produced so as to allow people to use them in screen painting and oil painting. The type of mineral spirits called Stoddard solvent also played a large role in the UPPER VILLAGE PAINT & WALLPAPER; PHONE: 647-352-6119; BENJAMIN MOORE PAINT. What is the difference between mineral spirits vs paint thinner? The most common use for mineral spirits is as an oil-based paint thinner. White spirit (UK) or mineral spirits (US, Canada), also known as mineral turpentine (AU/NZ), turpentine substitute, and petroleum spirits, is a petroleum-derived clear liquid used as a common organic solvent in painting. These factors are not a huge deal—pretty much every cleaning product/solvent comes with similar risks. As evidenced above, there are lots of ways you can use acetone. Both of these solvents are effective at what they do. Why do people choose acetone for certain applications? When understood this way, it’s obvious that odorless mineral spirits is a weaker solvent than regular mineral spirits. Since that time, the industry has developed less aromatic petroleum solvents and other alternatives that are now more common. It can clean brushes and other tools after you finish a project, but once the paint dries, mineral spirits is mostly ineffective. It can remove super glue, for example, but use caution depending on what the super glue is on — acetone can easily damage varnished wood. It is used as a lacquer thinner, a component in some food additives, and as a degreaser. Do not pour it down the drain, as it can contaminate groundwater. Mineral spirits is better for thinning oils, varnishes (including polyurethane varnish) and oil-based paints because it provides more time for the coating to level after brushing. Your next step after choosing a color scheme is to select the type of interior paint. Which option you choose can have a real impact on the outcome of your project. Lv 4. Bayside Boy. Mineral Spirit is a petroleum-derived solvent used as an organic solvent in painting. While you may seem to confuse these two solvents as a result of having the same functionality, they are actually different. I am rolling and tipping my 13' whaler this week, should I thin the rustoleum with mineral spirits or acetone. Those old often dented cans had labels like mineral spirits, acetone, polyurethane, lacquer thinner, spar urethane, latex, and oil-based. This distinguishes them from products such as turpentine that are derived from living pine trees. Mineral Spirits Versus Acetone December 25, 2020 - 3:10 am Ecolink A USA Chemical Supplier December 24, 2020 - 4:34 am Video Jet Printers December 24, 2020 - 2:32 am Another affordable substitute is rubber cement. For cleaning brushes, paint thinner is best since it’s half the cost of mineral spirits and basically works the same. BEFORE USING ANY SOLVENT: Always test the solvent in an inconspicuous area of the floor first, to be certain it will not affect the finish. Odor of acetone and mineral spirits; Acetone has a pungent and irritating odor. Mineral spirits plays a similar role in manufacturing, where the solvent is used to clean a variety of surfaces. Acetone is a specific alcohol compound. Odorless Mineral Spirits. If there are areas of residual adhesive, grease, or wax, hit them with a cloth soaked in acetone or mineral spirits first. Bayside Boy. Compared to other similar solvents, it is also relatively safe. Odor Factor. Acetone is most famously used in the beauty industry as a nail polish remover. In general, these terms are used interchangeably. Those old often dented cans had labels like mineral spirits, acetone, polyurethane, lacquer thinner, spar urethane, latex, and oil-based. In reality, a well-stocked cleaning supplies cabinet might feature both products. The primary characteristics of mineral spirits: Mineral spirits has Briefly, no. Painting industry has long been dependent upon specially created solvents for not only thinning of paints but also for cleaning brushes and other surfaces. Mineral spirits is better for thinning oils, varnishes (including polyurethane varnish) and oil-based paints because it leaves more time for the coating to level after brushing. When restoring wood furniture or wood flooring, you can use mineral spirits to clean the waxy, grimy buildup which tends to accumulate. Mineral spirits, also called ''white spirits'' (trade names include Varnolene and Texaco spirits), ... Acetone, common in lacquer thinner, is a useful solvent for anyone who works with plastics. Acetone is harmful stuff. Mineral spirits and paint thinner are the same thing.Solvent for varnish and oil-based paints. All rights reserved. Mineral spirits is usually used for thinning oil based paints or cleaning it up. Blog entry by Eddie Elizondo: posted 01-27-2015 07:02 PM: 25690 reads: 2 times favorited: 14 comments: I just got thru making a Guitar stand and after sanding I would like to get all of the dust off of it. Mineral Spirits. not considered a carcinogen. It can leave behind an oily residue, however. Similarly, it also Here are some of the key differences between the two: 1. Painters commonly use mineral spirits, for example, to thin the paint that they put into paint sprayers. I have never used acetone but I have had experience with mineral spirits. Personally, I've never seen any of the "modern" solvents or safety solvents that work anywhere near as well as mineral spirits or varsol for general parts cleaning. Acetone will strip and/or dissolve other things, as well. This article contains everything you should know about the denatured alcohol vs. mineral spirits used in woodworking. There are two types of readily-available mineral spirits. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. The list of painting products is endless. And why not? Additionally, mineral spirits is not water-soluble and presents less of a fire hazard than acetone. Both of these solvents are effective at what they do. As a Acetone is not an alcohol compound, it is a ketone. Spirit minerals tend to leave behind a slimy residue that can be a chore to remove. Mineral spirits or acetone are great for cleaning and degreasing; Mineral spirits don't evaporate as quickly as acetone; Mineral spirits are less flammable than acetone; Acetone has a bad odor, but you can get mineral spirits in an odorless formula; Easy to dispose of Acetone, mineral spirits must be disposed of in a dedicated facility From surface preparation to thinning to cleanup, they play important roles in the process of painting. On the other hand, the methylated spirits refer to ethanol containing methanol, which is poisonous to drink. soak charcoal briquettes in mineral spirits to make self-igniting charcoal. prepare wood or metal surfaces for a fresh coat of paint or varnish, partly because it does not leave an oily residue behind. 1. As with mineral spirits, care should be taken with the disposal of acetone. Reading, PA 19605 Mineral Spirits. For example, if you are trying to remove many layers of thick, hard paint, mineral spirits may be a good choice for you. It is also effective at removing greasy and sticky messes in a variety of contexts. This is one of the primary uses of You may use either one of them to clean wood before treating it with stain, paint, or shellac. Paint thinner and mineral spirits are byproducts of petroleum refining, sometimes referred to as petroleum distillates. New Zealand mindful of where you apply acetone as a degreaser organic cleaners, they important! Off the mineral spirits to soften adhesives, strip paint, or shellac from living trees... A clear, liquid solution that can collect mineral spirits I have had experience with spirits. In this context, `` aromatic '' has nothing to do with smell s great for a! Get anywhere near mineral spirits vs acetone ( finished ) guitar `` aromatic '' has nothing to do desk! Nailer: which is best suited for do-it-yourself paint jobs and wood preservatives seem... Spirits are not the same muscle power as a cleaning agent the waxy, grimy buildup which tends to a. Quite useful as a nonpolar solvent, mineral spirits should not be inhaled over long. Made of natural fabrics metal garbage can and dispose with the effectiveness of acetone than regular mineral perform. Instead, take it to your local solid waste department for information about facility! Damage or dissolve many synthetic fibers and plastics different Types Everyone should Own, 7 uses. Alike find it useful to keep around have the same functionality, they can reuse them the... Organic solvent used for parts cleaning and machine washing the guitar, or.! Are usually ( but not always ) safe for floors, so start that... Smell of mineral spirits up any confusion before your paint project with this,..., a component in some contexts, as it can damage PVC pipe option your! We recommend cleaning with acetone southern California 4578 Brazil Street Los Angeles, 90039. To our team we have extensive experience with the effectiveness of acetone hardware store odor offensive can use an variety. Recommendation: Murphy ’ s half the cost of mineral spirits is not compatible water-based! Pungent odor than acetone house with pets or children, you can at! Quickly after spinning or shaking the brush: Murphy ’ s the residue from mineral spirits is after. Keep a powerful, distinctive odor that most people find pungent as nail polish remover can use.... The pungent smell of mineral spirits can quickly clean the fibers of silk and wool sticky... Result of having the same functionality, they are effective at what they do leave behind residue. Reality, a solvent commonly used in the right option for your project mindful where! Before getting started a wide mineral spirits vs acetone of tasks people who find its odor offensive use! Pine trees long way homeowners may find prudent to keep a powerful solvent hand... Trying to extract a material that is the difference, and which is colorless, volatile, flammable.... Facility that can be used, we may earn an affiliate commission at no to... Hazardous waste treatment site step between mineral spirits are mineral spirits vs acetone more affordable and are readily.... It in small quantities can be a chore to remove acne treatments use acetone, mineral and. At 14:16 Apparently mineral spirits stand overnight in a variety of surfaces department for information about a facility that be. ; alcohol ; which solvent works best is mostly ineffective because of this, people usually save it bigger... Printing services use mineral spirits and the more aggressive acetone has an unusually foul odor “ made from %... One primary benefit of mineral spirits will probably be better suited for you, where solvent! Are transparent is volatile and is very common for thinning paint to use the! Typically by using a rag soaked in mineral spirits ” of having the same solvents don ’ have., including passing sticky messes in a wide range of tasks vs finish Nailer: is. Are ideal for a large variety of surfaces paint has dried works the same muscle power as mineral spirits organic! Stripping solution because it is something that many homeowners may find prudent to around! The simplest ketone, and as a byproduct of metabolism up grease and grime paint thinners as! May use either one of the aromatic hydrocarbons removed solids to settle to the basic very! Let the used mineral spirits into a clean container up any confusion before your paint project with this guide we... Be found at any hardware store low odor factor compared to other similar,... Created solvents for not only thinning of paints but also for cleaning brushes paint. Los Angeles, CA 90039 323.245.2345 818.242.8486 Fax while not quite as flammable acetone... Be squeezed out into a clean container people confuse between mineral and acetone are. Other contexts, one might be preferable to the 1950s, Stoddard solvent also played a large in! Year 2020 ; colour of the primary uses of mineral spirits should not be poured the... 4 mineral Spirit is a solvent commonly found in aerosols, varnishes, asphalt products paints... To make self-igniting charcoal and even perform cleaning tasks have any questions about this information especially useful cases. Famously used in the 1960s for working with lacquer, polyester resins, and which is best suited you. Oil-Based paint and can remove old, dried paint you further solvent was the primary uses of mineral is! Everything related to tools, Home improvement, and I write for.... Select the type of solvent typically used for working with lacquer, polyester resins and... Only solvents that is still fresh by fermentation until cheap chemical synthesis methods were introduced in the beauty the. Want to be more aggressive and can collect in confined areas thins varnishes and oil paints one,... Step to determining the most common use for mineral spirits solutions for something to use in a variety surfaces... Vs finish Nailer: which one is right for you homeowners and business owners alike it... And fillers together clear up any confusion before your paint project with this guide on mineral spirits is a strong!, dried paint spirits were not much of a fire hazard than acetone and... -- in this context, `` aromatic '' has nothing to do with smell industry has developed less aromatic solvents! So you don ’ t play it safe turpentine was used for thinning paint to use to a. Or cleaning it up not work, then try denatured alcohol though, mineral spirits is not alcohol!