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Top rated artists paint thinners and solvents

AI-generated summary · updated July 27, 2026 · verify details before purchase.

  1. Best overall for oil painting

    Gamblin Gamsol Odorless Mineral Spirits

    4.8/5 $15-$25

    A highly refined, odorless mineral spirit that doubles as a thinner and brush cleaner, trusted by professional artists.

    • Low odor
    • Excellent solvent power
    • Non-yellowing
    • More expensive than generic brands
  2. Best traditional solvent for oil painting

    Winsor & Newton Distilled Turpentine

    4.6/5 $12-$20

    A high-quality distilled turpentine that offers fast evaporation and strong solvency, ideal for thinning oil paints and cleaning brushes.

    • Fast drying
    • Powerful thinner
    • Trusted brand
    • Strong odor
    • Can cause skin irritation
  3. Best eco-friendly alternative

    M. Graham & Co. Walnut Oil Alkyd Medium

    4.7/5 $10-$18

    A solvent-free alkyd medium made from walnut oil, used to thin paints and speed drying without harsh chemicals.

    • No VOCs
    • Accelerates drying
    • Made from natural oils
    • Thicker consistency
    • May yellow over time
  4. Best for glazing and fine detail

    Sennelier Oil Painting Medium (Thinner)

    4.5/5 $15-$22

    A professional-grade thinner that maintains paint consistency and improves flow, perfect for fine art applications.

    • Smooth application
    • Preserves color
    • High quality
    • Pricey
    • Not for heavy cleaning
  5. Best budget pick

    U.S. Art Supply Odorless Mineral Spirits

    4.4/5 $10-$16

    An affordable odorless mineral spirit that effectively thins oil-based paints and cleans brushes without strong fumes.

    • Cost-effective
    • Low odor
    • Good value
    • Less refined than premium brands
  6. Best non-toxic solvent

    Richeson Art Turpenoid Natural

    4.6/5 $14-$20

    A plant-based, non-toxic alternative to turpentine, made from citrus oils, safe for thinning and cleaning.

    • Non-toxic
    • Pleasant citrus scent
    • Biodegradable
    • Slower evaporation
    • More expensive
  7. Best for beginners

    Da Vinci Paint Thinner (Linseed Oil & Turpentine Blend)

    4.3/5 $10-$15

    A versatile blend of linseed oil and turpentine that thins paint and enhances gloss, suitable for artists at all levels.

    • Multipurpose
    • Improves gloss
    • Affordable
    • Yellowing over time
    • Strong odor
  8. Best for brush cleaning

    Grumbacher Distilled Turpentine

    4.5/5 $10-$18

    A pure distilled turpentine used for thinning oil paints and thoroughly cleaning brushes, with reliable quality.

    • Strong cleaning power
    • Good price
    • Widely available
    • Strong odor
    • Not odorless

Buying advice

When choosing a paint thinner or solvent, consider your health and workspace: odorless mineral spirits are safer for indoor use, while traditional turpentine offers faster drying but stronger fumes. For eco-friendly options, look for natural or plant-based solvents. Always test on a small sample to ensure compatibility with your paint and surface. Price often reflects purity, but budget-friendly options can work well for studio practice.

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