Question from Evelyn K
I got some unfinished pine shelves and used Minwax finish from the hardware store to finish them. I didn’t realize there are less toxic options… and for some reason I didn’t think about off-gassing before I did it. My living room looks great, but I have been running a fan in there with the windows open for a week and I can still distinctly smell the odor of the finish. The living room connects to the kitchen and the hallway without doors, so closing it up and heating it may be difficult- possible if I hang a curtain over the hall entry I suppose. What are my options for removing this smell?
Debra’s Answer
You don’t say if it is oil-based or water-based finish. Oil-based will take longer to cure.
I suggest putting them out in the sun. The heat will help them dry and cure faster.
