Mineral spirits, a petroleum-derived solvent, are employed for thinning oil-based paints, cleaning brushes and equipment, and degreasing surfaces. The procedure typically involves applying the solvent to the affected area using a cloth, brush, or by immersion, followed by agitation or soaking to dissolve or loosen the substance being removed. For example, to clean a paintbrush saturated with oil paint, one would submerge the brush in the solvent, work the bristles to release the paint, and then rinse with fresh solvent.
The utility of this solvent lies in its ability to dissolve oils, greases, waxes, and certain paints without significantly affecting many plastics or previously applied finishes. Historically, similar solvents have been used in art restoration and industrial cleaning due to their effective solvency and relatively low cost. Its widespread adoption stems from its versatility in both professional and household applications.
