How to Get Rid of Epoxy Smell with 3 Simple Solutions

Being exposed to the smell of epoxy in your home is challenging. The strong and long-lasting odor makes it hard to relax or work comfortably. Discover three easy methods to neutralize this persistent scent.

Epoxy resin is commonly used for its exceptional adhesive capabilities in various industries, including woodworking and metalworking. But even though it is useful, its unpleasant smell can be a big problem, hanging around for a long time after you've used it.

The strong smell of epoxy resin comes from what it's made of — a base epoxy mixed with a curing agent — and the heat it makes when it dries. Thankfully, effective methods exist to neutralize this odor. However, it's important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with inhaling epoxy fumes.

A person pouring yellow epoxy onto the floor | Source: Shutterstock

Is Epoxy Smell Dangerous?

Inhaling the strong odor of epoxy may irritate your nose, lungs, and throat and could result in headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Continued exposure to these fumes might even lead to sensitization and asthma over time.

Always be mindful of your body's signals and take precautions against prolonged exposure to epoxy fumes, such as using protective personal equipment (PPE), like respirators and gloves.

Use personal protective equipment, such as a respirator and gloves, when working with epoxy. | Source: Shutterstock

How to Get Rid of Epoxy Smell

1. Use Natural Remedies

There are several simple natural remedies to eliminate the smell of epoxy, with activated charcoal being a popular option due to its ability to absorb odors and toxins from the air.

Another method is placing bowls of white vinegar around your workspace, which gradually eliminates the smell. You can also diffuse essential oils like lemon or eucalyptus to create a pleasant scent while masking the chemical odor.

Using citrus peels near your epoxy project can help absorb the smell, providing a natural solution. You can also cover up the odor by lighting scented candles or placing an open box of baking soda in the space where the resin was applied.

Use activated charcoal for the absorption of odors and toxins from the air. | Source: Shutterstock

2. Use Air Purifiers

Air purifiers are devices designed to eliminate harmful particles from the air. These devices can be particularly useful if simply ventilating the area isn't enough to get rid of the epoxy resin smell.

By drawing air through filters that capture odor, dust, dirt, and organic compounds, these devices significantly improve air quality and reduce the presence of harmful fumes.

When choosing an air purifier for epoxy projects, opt for one with a high-quality filter capable of removing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for maximum effectiveness.

Use specialized air purifiers designed to target smells effectively, especially when ventilation alone isn't sufficient. | Source: Shutterstock

3. Open Windows and Doors

Opening windows and doors is a simple yet effective way to get rid of the smell of epoxy. Proper ventilation is crucial for reducing unpleasant odors, including those from epoxy resin.

Use fans to circulate air and expel fumes, and ensure windows and doors are open to let fresh air in. This helps dissipate the smell quickly and improves air quality.

For safety, make sure any respirators are correctly fitted and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Leave windows and doors open for several hours, if possible, to maximize airflow and freshness.

Ensure that windows and doors are open to facilitate the circulation of fresh air and the expulsion of fumes. | Source: Shutterstock

How Quickly Does the Smell Go Away?

The strong smell will start to fade after about eight to ten hours. The curing process can take anywhere from a day to about a week, depending on factors like epoxy thickness and curing temperatures.

However, for particularly strong-smelling epoxies, it may take up to a month for the scent to completely disappear. In a well-ventilated area, most epoxy fumes should dissipate within one to three days, leaving behind a more pleasant environment.

Keep in mind that the strong scent of epoxy typically diminishes within one to three days. | Source: Shutterstoc

So, if you're wondering how to get rid of the epoxy smell, remember that it usually fades as the epoxy cures. Be patient, as the strong odor will gradually diminish over time. Employing natural remedies like activated charcoal and citrus peels, using air purifiers, and enhancing ventilation by opening windows are some practical solutions.

These techniques not only alleviate the pungent scent of epoxy but are also adaptable for addressing odors from other materials, including rubber. Learn how to get rid of rubber odor to keep your space fresh and inviting.