Our 10 best oil paint solvent choices for 2025, reviewed

As an oil painter, I’ve spent countless hours in the studio, getting my hands (and brushes!) wonderfully messy. A crucial part of that process is finding the right best oil paint solvent – it’s not just about thinning paint, but also about cleaning brushes, modifying mediums, and creating specific effects. Over the years, I’ve tried so many options, looking for solutions that fit different needs, from strong cleaning power to low odor for indoor work. This guide will walk you through my top 10 picks, covering everything from traditional spirits to innovative, eco-friendly alternatives, helping you make an informed choice for your own artistic journey.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Gamblin Solvent Free Gel Medium Oil 150Ml	View on Amazon
	Odorless Paint Thinner for Oil Painting – Oil Painting…	View on Amazon
	Eco Safety SoyThin Odorless Paint Thinner for Oil Painting,…	View on Amazon
	Gamblin Solvent-Free Fluid Oil Painting Medium, 8.5 Fluid…	View on Amazon
	Real Milk Paint, Orange Peel Oil, Natural Alternative to…	View on Amazon
	Masterson Paint and Solvent Cups, Dripless Full Sealing…	View on Amazon
	Chelsea Classical Studio Lavender Spike Oil Essence -…	View on Amazon
	U.S. Art Supply Odorless Mineral Spirits 4.2oz (125ml)…	View on Amazon
	Tusc & Pine StudioSolv™ Odorless Mineral Spirits 16.9oz…	View on Amazon
	ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner – Citrus Scent, Low…	View on Amazon

1. Gamblin Solvent Free Gel Medium Oil 150Ml

This isn’t a traditional solvent, but rather a solvent-free medium that can often replace the need for solvents when thinning paint or creating glazes. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking to reduce your exposure to fumes. It flows beautifully and can increase transparency and gloss without affecting paint film integrity.
Key features that stand out:
– Solvent-free formulation: Eliminates the need for traditional solvents.
– Gel consistency: Offers unique control for blending and glazing.
– Increases transparency and gloss: Enhances the luminosity of your oil paints.
– Maintains paint film integrity: Ensures your artwork lasts.
Pros:
– No harsh odors or fumes, making it ideal for indoor use or sensitive artists.
– Excellent for precise control when thinning or extending paint.
– Adds a beautiful sheen and depth to colors.
Cons:
– Doesn’t clean brushes as effectively as a traditional solvent.
Best for: Artists seeking a solvent-free way to thin paints, create glazes, or add body to their colors, especially those sensitive to odors.
Expert Opinion: This gel is a game-changer for artists wanting to reduce solvent use. While it won’t replace a solvent for deep brush cleaning, it excels at modifying paint consistency and creating luscious, transparent layers.

2. Odorless Paint Thinner for Oil Painting – Oil Painting…

This premium odorless mineral oil formula is designed specifically for artists who need a reliable thinner without the offensive smell of traditional spirits. It effectively thins oil-based paints, varnishes, and stains, helping you achieve your desired consistency and blend colors seamlessly. It evaporates cleanly, leaving no residue, and is a staple for many studios.
Key features that stand out:
– Ultra-smooth, high-quality odorless mineral oil: Provides effective thinning and blending.
– Odorless dilution technology: Specifically designed for thinning oil paint without harsh odors.
– Preserves color integrity: Ensures your paint colors remain true.
– Evaporates cleanly: Leaves no residual odor or residue.
Pros:
– Completely odorless, making it perfect for indoor use or shared spaces.
– Versatile for thinning, blending, and even some brush cleaning.
– Reliable performance for artists of all skill levels.
Cons:
– Still requires adequate ventilation despite being odorless.
Best for: Oil painters of all levels looking for a dependable, odorless solvent for thinning paints and modifying mediums without compromising air quality.
Expert Opinion: For a truly odorless experience with traditional mineral spirits performance, this option is highly effective. Its clean evaporation is a significant plus for maintaining color purity.

3. Eco Safety SoyThin Odorless Paint Thinner for Oil Painting,…

SoyThin offers an innovative, soy-based alternative to traditional paint thinners, combining eco-friendliness with superior performance. It’s fantastic for thinning oil paints, creating glazes, and even conditioning your brushes, all while eliminating the harsh odors typically associated with solvents. Its organic plant-based additives help maintain brush health, extending their lifespan.
Key features that stand out:
– Soy-based additives: Environmentally conscious and low-odor formula.
– Superior glazing capabilities: Enhances artistic effects.
– Organic plant-based conditioners: Helps maintain soft, absorbent brush bristles.
– Derived from petroleum distillates and refined organic soy methyl ester: Offers superior dissolving power with less hazardous vapors.
Pros:
– Significantly reduced odor compared to mineral spirits or turpentine.
– Doubles as a brush conditioner, extending brush life.
– Safer for indoor use and more environmentally friendly.
Cons:
– Might have a slightly different feel or drying time than traditional solvents for some artists.
Best for: Eco-conscious artists seeking an odorless, multi-purpose thinner and brush cleaner that is gentle on tools and the environment.
Expert Opinion: SoyThin is a commendable step forward for green art practices. Its dual function as a thinner and brush conditioner makes it a valuable addition to any artist’s kit, especially those concerned about VOCs and brush longevity.

4. Gamblin Solvent-Free Fluid Oil Painting Medium, 8.5 Fluid…

Similar to its gel counterpart, the Gamblin Solvent-Free Fluid is another excellent solvent-free option for artists. This liquid medium allows you to thin your oil paints to a fluid consistency, perfect for delicate glazes, smooth blending, and increasing transparency without needing any traditional solvents. It maintains the strength and flexibility of your paint film, ensuring lasting results.
Key features that stand out:
– Fluid consistency: Ideal for thinning paints to a smooth, flowing state.
– Solvent-free formulation: Eliminates fumes and odors.
– Increases transparency: Perfect for layering and glazing.
– Enhances brushability: Makes paint easier to manipulate.
Pros:
– Completely odor-free and non-toxic, safe for all studios.
– Excellent for artists who prefer a more liquid painting medium.
– Maintains paint film integrity and archival quality.
Cons:
– Doesn’t serve as a cleaner for brushes, requiring a separate solution.
Best for: Artists who want a truly solvent-free fluid medium for thinning paints, creating transparent layers, and enhancing flow without compromising safety or archival quality.
Expert Opinion: For a liquid, solvent-free alternative to traditional thinners, this Gamblin fluid is top-tier. It allows for beautiful control over paint consistency and is a must-have for fume-sensitive artists.

5. Real Milk Paint, Orange Peel Oil, Natural Alternative to…

Real Milk Paint’s Orange Peel Oil is a fantastic natural, citrus-based alternative to mineral spirits and traditional paint thinners. Made from 98% pure citrus peel oil, it boasts a pleasant orange scent and is an incredibly versatile product. Beyond thinning oil paints and Tung oil, it’s also a powerful cleaner, degreaser, and brush conditioner, all while being environmentally friendly.
Key features that stand out:
– 98% pure citrus peel oil: Natural, plant-based solvent with a pleasant scent.
– Planet-friendly: Does not contribute to ozone depletion or smog.
– Multi-purpose use: Thins paint, cleans brushes, degreases, and removes paint.
– Evaporates cleanly: Leaves no harmful residues.
Pros:
– Natural and biodegradable, with a refreshing citrus aroma.
– Effective as both a paint thinner and a powerful cleaner/degreaser.
– Safer for the environment and easy to dispose of.
Cons:
– Can be strong in scent for some, even if pleasant.
Best for: Eco-conscious artists looking for a natural, powerful, multi-purpose solvent and cleaner with a pleasant citrus scent.
Expert Opinion: This orange peel oil is a true workhorse. Its natural composition and broad utility, from thinning paint to heavy-duty cleaning, make it a standout choice for those avoiding petroleum-based products.

6. Masterson Paint and Solvent Cups, Dripless Full Sealing…

While not a solvent itself, these Masterson Paint and Solvent Cups are an indispensable accessory for any artist using solvents or mediums. These airtight, full-sealing containers are specifically designed to store your solvents like turpentine, OMS, or spike oil, preventing evaporation and spills. They’re composed of quality resins that safely hold various chemicals, making your studio practice cleaner and more efficient.
Key features that stand out:
– Airtight, full-sealing design: Prevents evaporation and spillage of solvents.
– Durable resin construction: Safely holds various painting chemicals.
– Includes 10 individual cups: Perfect for multiple solvents or color mixes.
– Compact size: Fits perfectly within Masterson Sta-Wet palettes for integrated use.
Pros:
– Extends the life of your solvents by reducing evaporation.
– Minimizes mess and spills in the studio.
– Allows for easy organization of different mediums and thinners.
Cons:
– Requires buying the actual solvents separately.
Best for: Any artist using traditional solvents or painting mediums who needs a reliable, spill-proof way to store and access their liquids efficiently.
Expert Opinion: These cups are essential for maintaining a tidy, efficient, and less wasteful studio. Properly storing your solvents not only saves money but also minimizes exposure to fumes.

7. Chelsea Classical Studio Lavender Spike Oil Essence -…

Chelsea Classical Studio’s Lavender Spike Oil Essence is a traditional and natural alternative to turpentine and other harsh mineral spirits. Derived from lavender, it has a pleasant, sweet lavender scent, which is a welcome change from typical solvent odors. It’s a versatile medium for thinning oil paints, blending pencil colors, dissolving resins, and cleaning brushes, all with a focus on being healthy and earth-friendly.
Key features that stand out:
– Natural lavender derivative: Healthy and earth-friendly alternative to toxic thinners.
– Sweet lavender scent: Pleasant aroma unlike traditional solvents.
– Versatile use: Thins paints, blends colors, dissolves resins, cleans brushes.
– Made without heavy chemicals: Naturally purified for a smooth finish.
Pros:
– Pleasant natural scent, significantly less harsh than turpentine.
– Effective as both a thinner and a cleaner.
– Healthier and more environmentally conscious choice.
Cons:
– May be more expensive than conventional mineral spirits.
Best for: Artists seeking a natural, non-toxic, and pleasantly scented alternative to turpentine for thinning paints and cleaning brushes.
Expert Opinion: Lavender Spike Oil Essence brings a historical, artisanal quality to your studio. Its natural solvent power combined with its delightful scent makes painting a more enjoyable and less chemically intensive experience.

8. U.S. Art Supply Odorless Mineral Spirits 4.2oz (125ml)…

This U.S. Art Supply Odorless Mineral Spirits offers a premium, highly refined solvent formula that effectively thins oil-based paints, stains, and varnishes. It works just like traditional turpentine but without the unpleasant odor, making it a reliable choice for indoor use. It’s also an excellent cleaner for brushes, tools, and equipment, dissolving fresh oil paint with minimal residue.
Key features that stand out:
– Premium highly refined solvent formula: Effectively thins and blends oil-based products.
– Odorless mineral spirits: Eliminates unpleasant odors for comfortable indoor use.
– Excellent for cleaning: Ideal for paint brushes, tools, and equipment.
– Versatile application: Suitable for thinning paints, blending colored pencil art.
Pros:
– No unpleasant odor, great for studio or classroom settings.
– Effective thinner and powerful cleaner for oil-based materials.
– Evaporates cleanly with minimal residue.
Cons:
– Classified as combustible, requiring careful storage and handling.
Best for: Artists needing a reliable, odorless mineral spirits for general thinning, blending, and brush cleaning without the harsh fumes.
Expert Opinion: A solid, no-frills choice for artists accustomed to mineral spirits but wanting an odorless version. Its efficiency as a cleaner is particularly noteworthy for maintaining tools.

9. Tusc & Pine StudioSolv™ Odorless Mineral Spirits 16.9oz…

Tusc & Pine StudioSolv™ is a professional-grade odorless mineral spirits that stands out for its purity and safety features. With aromatic solvents removed, it’s truly odor-free and boasts a higher, safer flashpoint compared to many other solvents. It’s perfect for thinning heavy-bodied oils, modifying mediums, and achieving smooth brush strokes, all while maintaining color integrity.
Key features that stand out:
– Professional grade, purified and odor-free: Aromatic solvents removed for true odorless experience.
– Higher safer flashpoint rating (144°F): Classifies it as a combustible liquid, safer than flammable solvents.
– Maintains color integrity: Ideal for preserving the true hue of your paints.
– Made in the USA: Conforms to ASTM D 4236 standards.
Pros:
– Virtually no odor, making it excellent for sensitive environments.
– Higher flashpoint adds a layer of safety compared to other spirits.
– Professional grade quality ensures consistent performance.
Cons:
– Not recommended for use with natural resin mediums like dammar.
Best for: Professional artists and students who prioritize safety, purity, and a truly odorless experience for thinning oil paints and modifying mediums.
Expert Opinion: StudioSolv sets a high bar for odorless mineral spirits with its enhanced safety profile and professional-grade purity. It’s a trustworthy choice for consistent results in a well-ventilated space.

10. ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner – Citrus Scent, Low…

The ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner offers an eco-friendly citrus formula that’s gentle on users and the environment. This low-toxicity, low-odor, and biodegradable thinner is a safe alternative to traditional turpentine, making it ideal for indoor use. It’s versatile for thinning oil paints, cleaning brushes, and working with varnishes, all without harsh fumes, thanks to its natural plant oils.
Key features that stand out:
– Eco-Friendly Citrus Formula: Made from natural plant oils with a pleasant citrus scent.
– Low toxicity, low odor, and biodegradable: Safer for indoor use and sensitive workspaces.
– Versatile Artist & DIY Solvent: Ideal for thinning paints, cleaning brushes, dissolving resins.
– Low VOC & Sustainable Choice: Formulated for high performance without compromising health or air quality.
Pros:
– Gentle on the respiratory system and the environment with a pleasant citrus aroma.
– Effective for thinning paints and cleaning tools.
– Safer for frequent indoor use due to low VOCs and biodegradability.
Cons:
– Some artists might prefer a completely scent-free option.
Best for: Artists and DIYers seeking a natural, low-odor, and environmentally responsible paint thinner with a pleasant citrus scent for versatile use.
Expert Opinion: Eco-House 115 is an excellent bridge between natural and effective. Its low-toxicity profile and pleasant scent make it a strong contender for artists looking to move away from harsher chemicals without sacrificing performance.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When choosing the best oil paint solvent, consider your specific needs. If odor is your absolute top priority, options like the Odorless Paint Thinner (Product 2) or Tusc & Pine StudioSolv™ (Product 9) offer traditional mineral spirits performance without the smell. For those seeking a completely solvent-free experience, the Gamblin Solvent Free Gel (Product 1) and Gamblin Solvent-Free Fluid (Product 4) are excellent choices, though they are mediums, not cleaners.

If you lean towards natural and eco-friendly alternatives, the Eco Safety SoyThin (Product 3), Real Milk Paint Orange Peel Oil (Product 5), Chelsea Classical Studio Lavender Spike Oil Essence (Product 7), and ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner (Product 10) provide biodegradable options with unique scents and sometimes dual cleaning/conditioning benefits. The Orange Peel Oil and Lavender Spike Oil are particularly noteworthy for their multi-purpose nature, acting as strong cleaners as well as thinners.

For general-purpose, reliable odorless mineral spirits, the U.S. Art Supply Odorless Mineral Spirits (Product 8) is a solid, economical choice. And remember, no matter which solvent you choose, having Masterson Paint and Solvent Cups (Product 6) will significantly improve your studio organization and reduce waste.

Final Verdict

Deciding on the best oil paint solvent really comes down to your individual priorities.

• For the truly odor-sensitive painter who wants a traditional solvent feel, Tusc & Pine StudioSolv™ Odorless Mineral Spirits stands out for its professional grade, purity, and safety features.
• If you’re aiming for a completely solvent-free studio and mainly need to thin your paints and create glazes, the Gamblin Solvent-Free Fluid Oil Painting Medium is an exceptional choice, offering superb control without any fumes.
• For artists who prioritize eco-friendliness and enjoy natural scents, the Real Milk Paint Orange Peel Oil offers incredible versatility, acting as a powerful thinner, cleaner, and degreaser all in one pleasant-smelling package.

Ultimately, each of these options brings unique strengths to the table. Consider what matters most to your health, your environment, and your artistic process, and you’ll find the perfect match.

FAQ Section

Q1: What is the best oil paint solvent for someone sensitive to odors?
A1: For artists sensitive to odors, odorless mineral spirits like Tusc & Pine StudioSolv™ or the Odorless Paint Thinner for Oil Painting are excellent choices. Alternatively, natural, low-VOC options like Chelsea Classical Studio Lavender Spike Oil Essence or ECO-HOUSE 115 Xtra Mild Paint Thinner, or even solvent-free mediums like Gamblin Solvent-Free Fluid, offer great fume-free experiences.

Q2: Can I use solvent-free mediums instead of traditional oil paint solvents?
A2: Yes, solvent-free mediums like Gamblin Solvent Free Gel or Fluid are fantastic for thinning paints, increasing transparency, and modifying consistency without the need for traditional solvents. However, they typically don’t clean brushes as effectively as dedicated solvents, so you might still need a separate cleaner.

Q3: Are natural solvents like orange peel oil or lavender spike oil truly effective?
A3: Absolutely! Natural solvents such as Real Milk Paint Orange Peel Oil and Chelsea Classical Studio Lavender Spike Oil Essence are highly effective at thinning oil paints, dissolving resins, and cleaning brushes. They also offer the benefit of pleasant scents and often lower toxicity compared to petroleum-based solvents.

Q4: How important is ventilation when using the best oil paint solvent?
A4: Ventilation is always important, even when using “odorless” or “low-odor” solvents. While the scent may be reduced, many still release VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) that are best dissipated from your workspace. Ensure good airflow by opening windows or using an extractor fan.

Q5: What’s the best oil paint solvent for cleaning brushes?
A5: Many of the reviewed odorless mineral spirits, like U.S. Art Supply Odorless Mineral Spirits or Tusc & Pine StudioSolv™, are excellent for cleaning brushes. Natural options like Real Milk Paint Orange Peel Oil and Eco Safety SoyThin also excel at brush cleaning and conditioning.

Q6: What should I look for when choosing the best oil paint solvent for indoor use?
A6: For indoor use, prioritize “odorless” or “solvent-free” options to minimize fumes. Look for products with low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) or those derived from natural, plant-based sources. Always ensure you still have adequate ventilation, regardless of the product’s claims, to maintain a healthy studio environment.

Q7: Can I dispose of oil paint solvents down the drain?
A7: No, you should never dispose of oil paint solvents down the drain. Most solvents are hazardous waste and must be disposed of properly according to local regulations. Check with your local waste management facility for guidelines on disposing of chemical waste. Some natural solvents, like Real Milk Paint Orange Peel Oil, may be more environmentally friendly but still require careful disposal of paint-laden waste.