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A paint thinner is a solvent used to thin oil-based paints. (All such solvents have other uses.)

Commercially, "paint thinner" is usually a name for mineral spirits. Other solvents used to thin paint include:

• Acetone
• Mineral turpentine (turps)
• True turpentine
• Naphtha
• Toluene
• White spirit
• Xylene
• Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)

[edit] Abuse

Some paint thinners, such as mineral turpentine, may be abused as inhalants. This is an extremely dangerous and potentially addictive form of drug abuse. Due to the dangers linked with inhaling these solvents, most paint thinners are recommended for use in well ventilated areas to minimise danger.

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