4 Simple Ways to Make Interior Paint Dry Faster

This post may contain affiliate links. At no cost to you, we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

Have you ever painted a room and then had to wait what feels like an eternity for the paint to dry? I know I have, and it can be frustrating when you just want to get the project finished.

Luckily, there are some easy ways to make interior paint dry faster. Let’s have a look at four ways of making that happen.

1) Use a quick drying paint

If you’re looking to speed up the drying time of your interior paint, the best and most obvious option is to choose a quick drying paint. Quick drying paints are designed to dry more quickly than standard paints, and they can be found at most hardware stores.

Look for labels that mention “quick dry”, “quick drying” or “fast drying” on the paint can and read our guide and FAQs on quick drying paint before you go shopping.

Quick drying paints are available in most finishes including gloss, eggshell and satinwood.

No products found.

2) Increase ventilation in the room you’re painting in

Increasing ventilation is another effective way to speed up the drying time of your interior paint. By allowing air to circulate around the painted surface, you can help the solvents in the paint evaporate more quickly, leading to faster drying times. Here are some tips to help you increase ventilation and speed up the drying time of your paint.

The first step is to open windows and doors to allow for air circulation. This will help to create a draft and allow air to flow in and out of the room. The more fresh air that circulates around the room, the faster the paint will dry. If possible, try to open windows and doors on opposite sides of the room to create a cross-breeze.

If the weather outside is too hot or humid, opening windows and doors may not be enough to increase ventilation. In this case, you can use fans or turn on the air conditioning to remove excess moisture from the air. Fans can be positioned near the painted surface to help circulate air around it, while air conditioning can remove excess humidity from the air, helping the paint dry more quickly.

Another tip is to use a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture levels in the air. Dehumidifiers work by pulling moisture out of the air, which can help to speed up the drying time of your paint. You can also use a space heater to increase the temperature in the room, which can help to evaporate the solvents in the paint more quickly.

One thing to keep in mind when increasing ventilation is to avoid dust and debris from getting on the painted surface. It’s essential to keep the area around the painted surface clean and dust-free. If necessary, you can cover the painted surface with a drop cloth or plastic sheeting to protect it from dust and debris.

3) Apply thin coats of paint

When it comes to painting, one technique to keep in mind is applying thin coats of paint. This is an effective way to speed up the drying process and achieve a smooth finish. Applying thick, heavy coats can prolong drying time, and the result may not be the desired even finish.

To apply thin coats of paint, start by loading up your brush or roller with a moderate amount of paint. Be sure to remove any excess paint to avoid dripping or uneven coverage. Apply the paint with gentle and consistent strokes, making sure to cover the surface evenly. Applying too much pressure or force can cause an uneven application, and it may take longer for the paint to dry.

Wait until the first coat of paint is completely dry before applying the second coat. Applying the second coat too soon can cause the paint to mix with the first layer, causing uneven coverage and prolonging the drying time.

If you are working on a large surface, it’s important to work in small sections, applying thin coats of paint one section at a time. This will help ensure even coverage and speed up the drying time. Also, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label for the best results.

4) Avoid painting in humid conditions

Painting in humid conditions can be a challenge, as excess moisture in the air can prolong drying time and cause the paint to dry unevenly. To avoid these issues, it’s best to check the weather forecast and choose a day when the humidity is low to paint. A humidity level of 40-50% is ideal for painting.

Here in the UK, the average humidity is between 30% and 60%. You can check the level in a specific room by using a cheap gadget called a hygrometer.

No products found.

If you must paint in a humid environment, there are steps you can take to minimise the impact of moisture on the paint. First, use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. This will help the paint dry more quickly and evenly. Place the dehumidifier in the room where you’re painting, and make sure to close all doors and windows to keep the moisture from getting in.

Another tip is to choose a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for humid conditions. These types of paint are formulated with special additives that help them dry more quickly and evenly in high humidity. Look for paints that are labelled as “humidity-resistant” or “mould-resistant” for best results.

In addition to these steps, it’s important to ensure that the surface you’re painting is clean and dry. Any moisture on the surface can cause the paint to dry unevenly and peel over time. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the surface before painting.

By following these tips, you can successfully paint in humid conditions and achieve a professional-looking finish. Choose the right day to paint, use a dehumidifier, choose high-quality paint, and make sure the surface is clean and dry. With a little extra effort, you can make sure your paint dries quickly and looks great.

How to make interior paint dry faster (conclusion)

There you have it – some simple yet effective tips for making interior paint dry faster. By using a fast-drying paint or additive, increasing ventilation, applying thin coats, and avoiding painting in humid conditions, you can achieve a beautiful, professional-looking finish in less time.

Remember, patience is key when it comes to painting, but with these tips, you can speed up the process and enjoy your newly painted space in no time.

So roll up your sleeves, grab your brush, and get painting!