Anyone who works with paints, coatings, or cleaning solutions has to know the difference between lacquer thinner and paint thinner. They are both used for painting and finishing, although they have different chemical compositions, strengths, purposes, and safety concerns.
What Is Lacquer Thinner ?
Lacquer thinner is a strong solvent that is created from a mix of chemicals like toluene, xylene, acetone, and other solvents that evaporate quickly. It is made to thin lacquer-based paints and clean things that are related to lacquer.
Key Features of Lacquer Thinner:
- Very strong solvent
- Fast-evaporating formula
- Excellent for dissolving hardened lacquer
- Can also clean spray guns and equipment
Be careful when using lacquer thinner because it is highly flammable and strong odor. Always make sure the location you’re working in has good air flow.
Lacquer Thinner: Read This Before You Open the Can!
What Is Paint Thinner ?
Paint thinner, on the other hand, is a milder solvent typically made from mineral spirits. It is used to thin oil-based paints, clean brushes, and remove grease or grime from tools and surfaces.
Paint Thinner Hacks Every DIYer Should Know!
Key Features of Paint Thinner :
- Less aggressive than lacquer thinner
- Slower evaporation rate
- Commonly used with oil-based paints
- Easier to handle and less toxic
Paint thinner is a go-to for general-purpose cleaning and thinning tasks around the home or workshop.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Lacquer Thinner | Paint Thinner |
| Main Use | Thinning lacquer, cleaning lacquer | Thinning oil-based paints, cleaning |
| Composition | Strong solvents (acetone, toluene, MEK) | Milder solvents (mineral spirits) |
| Evaporation Rate | Fast | Slow |
| Odor | Strong, pungent | Milder |
| Toxicity | Higher | Lower |
| Flammability | High | Moderate to high |
| Surface Compatibility | May damage plastics/finishes | Safer for a wider range of surfaces |
| Price (per gallon) | $20–$70 | $15–$20 |
| Versatility | For lacquer-based products only | Usable with various oil-based paints |
| Cleaning Tools | For lacquer-based residues | For oil-based paint residues |
When to Use Each
Lacquer Thinner:
Used to clean and thin lacquer-based paints and varnishes.
Taking off dried lacquer, glue, or ink from hard surfaces.
Cleaning spray equipment used with lacquer.
Not suitable for thinning oil-based paints or for use on plastics and delicate finishes.
Paint Thinner:
Thinning oil-based paints, varnishes, and enamels.
Cleaning brushes, rollers, and other tools that are used with oil-based products.
Safer for general cleaning and for use on a wider variety of surfaces.
Also read:
Stain vs. Varnish: Which Should You Use?
Oil-Based Stain vs Water-Based Stain: Which One Should You Choose?
Are They Interchangeable ?
No, lacquer thinner and paint thinner are not interchangeable. Lacquer thinner is too strong for oil-based paints and can damage surfaces not intended for its use. Paint thinner is not effective for thinning lacquer or cleaning up lacquer-based products.
Safety Tips for Both Solvents
- Wear gloves and eye protection
- Work in a well-ventilated area
- Keep away from flames and heat
- Store in tightly sealed containers, away from children
Read the instructions from the manufacturer carefully, and don’t combine solvents unless they say it’s okay.
Lacquer Thinner vs Acetone: Comparison Table
When selecting a solvent for painting, cleaning, or industrial tasks, understanding the differences between lacquer thinner and acetone is essential. The table below highlights their key distinctions in composition, properties, uses, and safety.
| Attribute | Lacquer Thinner | Acetone |
| Chemical Formula | Varies (mixture of solvents: acetone, toluene, etc.) | C₃H₆O (propanone) |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Strong, pungent | Sweet, fruity or somewhat pungent |
| Flammability | Highly flammable | Highly flammable |
| Evaporation Rate | Medium to fast | Very fast |
| Residue | No oily residue | No residue |
| Solubility | Varies (depends on blend) | Miscible with water and most solvents |
| Toxicity | Can be more toxic (depends on blend) | Lower toxicity, but still irritant |
| Main Uses | Thinning lacquer-based paints, cleaning tools, removing ink/adhesive residue | Cleaning, degreasing, nail polish remover, adhesive remover, solvent in industry |
| Solvent Power | Specialized for lacquer-based products | Versatile, dissolves diverse materials |
| Surface Compatibility | Could harm plastics, rubber, delicate finishes. | May dissolve some plastics and rubbers |
| Cost & Availability | Specialized, may be more expensive | Inexpensive, widely available |
| Industry Focus | Woodworking, automotive, spray equipment cleaning | Beauty, manufacturing, cleaning, pharmaceuticals |
| Health & Safety | Use with ventilation, PPE; fumes can be toxic | Use with ventilation, PPE; less toxic but still hazardous |
Key Takeaways
- Lacquer thinner is a blend of solvents formulated to thin lacquer-based paints and clean related equipment. Its composition varies but often includes acetone, toluene, and methanol. It is highly effective for lacquer but can be harsh on plastics and certain surfaces.
- Acetone is a pure compound (propanone) that is known for evaporating quickly and being useful in many ways. It is widely used for cleaning, degreasing, and as a nail polish remover. While less toxic than many lacquer thinner blends, it can still irritate skin and eyes and is highly flammable.
- Both are flammable and require careful handling and proper ventilation.
Always consult product labels and safety data sheets before use to ensure proper application and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use lacquer thinner to thin oil-based paint?
No. Lacquer thinner is heavily strong and can damage oil-based paints and finishes.
2. Can I use paint thinner to thin lacquer?
No. Lacquer-based goods can’t be dissolved or thinned with paint thinner.
3. Which is more dangerous to use indoors?
Lacquer thinner is more dangerous since it is more poisonous and flammable. Both need sufficient airflow, but lacquer thinner needs more safety measures.
4. Can lacquer thinner damage plastics or car finishes?
Yes. Lacquer thinner can break down or harm plastics, tires, and coatings on cars. Always try it out on a tiny area first.
5. Which is more versatile?
For most painting and cleaning jobs, paint thinner is better. For lacquer-based items, lacquer thinner is better.
Final thoughts:
Paint thinner and lacquer thinner are made for distinct kinds of coatings and have different uses. Using the right solvent will give you the greatest results and keep you safe on your projects. When using any solvent, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety rules.