If you’ve ever walked into your house after a DIY project and immediately regretted your life choices because of that overpowering spray paint smell—you’re not alone. I get it. That’s why when I spotted Rust-Oleum’s Low Odor Spray Paint at Menards, my curiosity kicked into overdrive. Could this really solve the stinky spray paint problem?
Well, I bought it. I tried it. And now you’re getting the real review.
📦 What Is It?
Rust-Oleum Low Odor Spray Paint is marketed as having:
- Indoor/outdoor durability
- 40% lower odor than typical spray paint
- Compatibility with wood, metal, glass, and more
A price tag that’s about $3.73 more than their standard 2X spray paint—with 1 oz less product.
So, is less smell worth more money?
🧪 Let’s Test It
For this test, I used a thrifted clock frame that I had big upcycling plans for. I scuffed it with a green scrub pad, added some wax resist for a shabby chic finish, and went to town with the low odor paint.
📌 Want to see how the clock turned out? Check out the finished clock project here — it turned into a fun little makeover you won’t want to miss!
💨 The Smell Test
✅ Yes, it’s low odor.
It doesn’t smell like your typical spray paint. It’s more like… an air fryer? Or that new electronics smell? Either way, it’s way less offensive than standard options and didn’t give me a headache (which is saying something).
🎨 The Coverage Test
❌ Not great.
Compared to my beloved Rust-Oleum 2X, this paint was streaky and uneven. I had to apply multiple coats to get decent coverage, especially on areas I’d prepped carefully. For a small piece, it was “meh.” For a large project? You’ll burn through the can quick.
💸 The Value Test
For me paying more for less just doesn’t make sense. At nearly $4 more per can, you’re paying more for less paint and less performance. Yes, the low odor is nice, but the coverage doesn’t make it worth the premium price worth it unless you really can’t handle traditional spray paint smell.
🛍️ Final Verdict
If you’ve got:
- A quick project that needs to come inside ASAP (graduation, birthday party, etc.)
- Sensitivity to paint fumes or get migraines from spray smells
Then Rust-Oleum Low Odor might be a great choice.
But if you’re painting to resell, or on a budget? Stick with 2X.
🛠️ TL;DR
- Odor: ✅ Way less offensive
- Coverage: ❌ Meh
- Value: ❌ Not worth the extra cost unless odor is a major issue
Want more honest reviews and budget-friendly DIYs? Then check out my other DIY posts here.
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Happy Junkin’!
