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Lacquer Thinner and Low VOC Blends

Lacquer thinner is a strong, flammable solvent blend. Buy the version your area allows.

Updated Nov 1, 2026. Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Hardware, paint and auto body stores sell quarts and gallons. Online sellers may restrict shipping because it is a flammable hazardous material.

Professional insight

Finishers match the thinner to the lacquer brand. Blends vary, and the wrong one can blush the finish.

Read the lacquer can for its recommended thinner.
Low VOC blends are mostly acetone and flash faster.
Use retarder thinner in humid weather to stop blushing.
Buy cleanup grade separately from spraying grade.

Check the label

Product named as lacquer thinner, not paint thinner.
Regional version, such as a California or low VOC formula.
Main solvents listed, such as acetone or toluene.
Flammable warning and flash point.
Container size in quarts, gallons or litres.
Thinner SDS sheet published for this exact blend.
Intact child resistant cap and seal.

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Common uses

Thinning nitrocellulose and acrylic lacquers for spraying.
Cleaning spray guns after lacquer work.
Removing adhesive residue from metal and glass.
Degreasing bare metal before primer.

It can melt plastics and strip some painted finishes. Test on a hidden spot first.

Lacquer thinner vs other solvents

Solvent	Strength	Typical job
Lacquer thinner	Very strong blend	Lacquer and gun cleanup
Acetone	Strong, fast drying	Resin, glue and nail polish
Mineral spirits	Mild	Oil paint and brushes
Denatured alcohol	Mild to medium	Shellac and cleaning

Storage

1Keep it in the original metal can.
2Seal the thinner can tightly between jobs.
3Store in a cool, ventilated place away from heat.
4Keep out of reach of children and pets.
5Take leftovers and soaked rags to hazardous waste collection.

Common questions

Is lacquer thinner the same as paint thinner?: No. Paint thinner is usually mineral spirits and much milder.
Why can't I find it in some states?: VOC rules limit solvent content. Stores sell compliant low VOC versions instead.
Can it go down the drain?: No. Take it to a household hazardous waste site.