If you are like many homeowners, you may have experienced the challenge of a nicotine stained interior such as walls, trim and ceilings. This unsightly and smelly problem can be difficult to remove, but with the right primer, it can be done!
In this article, we’ll discuss the best primer for nicotine stained walls. So if your home has been damaged by cigar or cigarette smoke, don’t worry – we have you covered!
- What is the best primer for nicotine stained walls?
- Do you have to wash nicotine off walls before painting?
- Will nicotine stains bleed through paint?
- Are there any other solutions for removing nicotine stains from walls and ceilings?
- What is the best cleaner to use to remove nicotine from walls?
- Final thoughts
What is the best primer for nicotine stained walls?
The best primer for nicotine stained walls, and other substrates, is an ethanol-based shellac primer. This type of paint seals odors from pet urine, smoke damage, fire damage, cigarettes and other musty odors, as well as knots and sap streaks.
Since it is alcohol-based it has a very strong odor and a very high VOC (volatile organic compound) content, so be sure to open windows and doors and use proper PPE such as:
- Respirator with the correct filter
- Safety glasses/face shield
- Gloves
- Old clothes that can be ruined
It is also very flammable so be sure to keep away from any open flames or heat sources. If you have a whole house or several rooms that are damaged from cigarette smoke, you may want to consider hiring a professional painting company that specializes in this type of work.
Top rated primers
The best primer for nicotine-stained walls and other substrates that professional painters use is Rust-Oleums Zinsser B-I-N Shellac Primer. It has excellent sealing properties and dries quickly, so you can recoat in as little as 45 minutes.
Another popular primer that is used by professionals is Rust-Oleums Zinsser Cover-stain oil-based primer. It dries in one hour and both primers can be used for interior and exterior applications.
If you’re looking for a primer that is less toxic and has a lower VOC content then consider using Rust-Oleums Zinsser B-I-N Advanced Synthetic Shellac Primer.
This type of primer is water-based and according to professional painters it doesn’t have the same stain-blocking properties as the other two mentioned above, but it’s a good choice if you’re looking for an eco-friendly option.
Another option is PPG SEAL GRIP Gripper Universal Primer/Sealer. It’s specially formulated to block most stains such as water, smoke, ink, markers, and tannin. It’s fast drying and also provides a mildew-resistant coating.
With ethanol-based or oil-based primers one coat of paint usually suffices; however, with the water-based primer, you’ll need two coats of paint to get good sealing properties. Wait until the next day before applying the second coat.
If you still get bleed-through after applying a primer with 2 coats then you can spot prime the affected areas before applying the top coat.
Do you have to wash nicotine off walls before painting?
It’s always recommended to wash the walls and trim before painting, but if the walls have been painted with a flat gloss like ceilings often are, then that might not be that easy to do.
If that is the case, then just prime the walls at the same time as you’re priming the ceiling.
Will nicotine stains bleed through paint?
You might think that a latex paint will seal the nicotine and prevent it from bleeding through since it’s like a plastic barrier, but unfortunately, that’s not the case.
Over time the nicotine will still seep through the paint and discolor it and the smell might come back. The best way to prevent this from happening is to use a primer that has excellent sealing properties such as an oil-based or alcohol-based primer.
Are there any other solutions for removing nicotine stains from walls and ceilings?
If the walls and ceiling have been painted in a paint with a gloss that makes it washable, such as an eggshell, satin or semi-gloss, then you can try washing the surfaces with TSP and water.
Make sure to rinse well after washing it and let it dry completely before painting over it. You might need to do this a few times to get rid of all the nicotine stains.
But have in mind that every spot that isn’t cleaned will emit an unpleasant smell so even the floor and furniture need to be cleaned well.
Some cleaning companies also offer a service where they will come and clean the nicotine off for you before painting. This might be a good option if you don’t want to do it yourself or if the stains are really bad.
They might even do such a good job that you won’t need to repaint the walls and ceiling after they’re done.
What is the best cleaner to use to remove nicotine from walls?
TSP, or trisodium phosphate, is a heavy-duty cleaner that is often used by professional painters to remove nicotine stains from walls.
To use TSP, mix it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the affected area with a sponge or brush.
Allow the TSP to sit on the stain for a few minutes before scrubbing vigorously and then rinse it clean with water.
TSP can be quite harsh, so it is important to take care when using it and to wear gloves and eyewear to protect yourself. You may also want to open windows or doors to ventilate the area while you are cleaning.
Final thoughts
When it comes to nicotine-stained walls, the best solution is usually to use a primer with excellent sealing properties. There are a few different primers on the market that fit this description, but two of the best ones are oil-based or alcohol-based primers.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, then you might want to go with a water-based primer.
It’s a lot of work to remove nicotine stains from walls, but it’s worth it in the end. Your walls will look fresh and new again and you won’t have to worry about the stains coming back.
Cleaning companies also offer a service where they will come and clean the nicotine off for you before painting. This might be a good option if you don’t want to do it yourself or if the stains are really bad.