When it comes to eco-friendly wood finishes, one of the biggest concerns for woodworkers is finding a safe, effective solvent for thinning finishes, cleaning tools, or removing old coatings. Traditional petroleum-based solvents, such as mineral spirits and lacquer thinners, release harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which contribute to poor indoor air quality and environmental pollution.

Thankfully, citrus and plant-based solvents provide a natural, biodegradable alternative that is both effective and non-toxic. Whether you’re dissolving resins, thinning oils, or cleaning brushes, these solvents are a safer choice for your health and the environment.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What citrus and plant-based solvents are made from
• The pros and cons of using them
• Common applications in woodworking
• Step-by-step instructions on how to use them effectively
• How they compare to traditional solvents

Let’s dive into why citrus and plant-based solvents are becoming a go-to solution for eco-conscious woodworkers.

What Are Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents?

Citrus and plant-based solvents are derived from natural sources, such as:

• Citrus Peel Oils (d-Limonene) – Extracted from orange and lemon peels, d-Limonene is a powerful degreaser and solvent that effectively dissolves oils, waxes, and resins.
• Soy Methyl Ester – Derived from soybean oil, this solvent is often used as a gentle, biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based thinners.
• Pine Oil & Terpenes – Extracted from pine trees, these compounds are excellent for dissolving resins and sticky residues while leaving behind a fresh, natural scent.
• Linseed-Based Solvents – Made from flaxseed oil, these slow-evaporating solvents work well for thinning oil-based finishes and extending drying times.

Because they are derived from renewable, plant-based sources, these solvents break down naturally without releasing toxic fumes into the environment.

Why Choose Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents?

Pros of Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents

✅ Non-Toxic & Low-VOC – Unlike mineral spirits or lacquer thinners, citrus and plant-based solvents do not release harmful VOCs, making them safer for indoor use and healthier for woodworkers.

✅ Biodegradable & Eco-Friendly – These solvents naturally break down in the environment, reducing pollution and minimizing impact on ecosystems.

✅ Mild Scent – Traditional solvents often have harsh, chemical odors, while citrus-based options leave behind a pleasant, orange or pine scent.

✅ Gentle on Finishes – These solvents are less aggressive than traditional paint strippers, making them ideal for delicate refinishing projects.

✅ Safe for Skin & Lungs – Without toxic fumes or harsh chemicals, these solvents are less likely to cause irritation or respiratory issues.

✅ Versatile Uses – They can be used for thinning oils, cleaning brushes, removing adhesives, and degreasing surfaces.

Cons of Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents

❌ Slower Evaporation – Because they evaporate more slowly than traditional solvents, drying times for finishes may be extended.

❌ Less Aggressive for Heavy-Duty Cleaning – While effective for most woodworking tasks, they may require longer soak times for removing thick paint layers or stubborn residues.

❌ Higher Cost – Citrus and plant-based solvents tend to be more expensive than petroleum-based alternatives.

❌ Can Leave a Slight Residue – Some plant-based solvents (especially those derived from soy or linseed) may leave behind a light oil residue, which needs to be wiped off before applying finishes.

Best Uses for Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents in Woodworking

These solvents are highly versatile and work well for:

• Thinning Oil-Based Finishes – Works with linseed oil, tung oil, and other natural wood finishes.
• Cleaning Brushes & Tools – Easily removes oil-based finishes, stains, and wax buildup from brushes and applicators.
• Stripping Old Finishes – Gently dissolves varnish, shellac, and paint without harsh fumes.
• Removing Sticky Residue – Breaks down adhesives, sap, and grease from wood surfaces.
• Degreasing & Prepping Wood – Cleans raw wood before applying a new eco-friendly finish.

How to Use Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents: Step-by-Step Guide

Materials Needed:

✔ Citrus or plant-based solvent (d-Limonene, soy-based, or pine-based)
✔ Soft cloth or sponge
✔ Natural bristle brush
✔ Sandpaper (if needed)
✔ Gloves (optional, for sensitive skin)

Step 1: Choose the Right Solvent for Your Project

• For thinning oil-based finishes, use citrus solvent or linseed-based thinner.
• For cleaning brushes, use citrus or soy-based solvents.
• For removing old finishes, use pine oil-based solvents for stronger dissolving power.

💡 Pro Tip: Always test a small, hidden area before applying to an entire piece.

Step 2: Apply the Solvent

• If thinning a finish, mix a small amount of solvent into your oil-based product and stir well.
• If cleaning brushes, soak them in solvent for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
• If removing finishes, apply the solvent with a brush or cloth and let it sit for 10-30 minutes to break down the coating.

Step 3: Wipe or Scrape Off Residue

• For cleaning or degreasing, wipe the surface with a clean, dry cloth.
• For stripping finishes, use a scraper or steel wool to remove softened layers.
• If any oily residue remains, wipe with a cloth dampened in warm water and mild soap.

Step 4: Allow Surface to Dry

• Before applying a new finish, let the wood dry completely to prevent interference with adhesion.
• Depending on the solvent used, drying times may range from 30 minutes to a few hours.

Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents vs. Traditional Solvents

Final Thoughts: Should You Use Citrus & Plant-Based Solvents?

If you’re looking for a natural, eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical solvents, citrus and plant-based options are a fantastic choice. While they may take longer to evaporate and cost slightly more, the health and environmental benefits make them well worth the investment.

For woodworkers who prioritize safety, sustainability, and indoor air quality, these biodegradable, non-toxic solvents are a game changer for thinning finishes, cleaning tools, and preparing wood surfaces.

Up Next: Plant-Based Varnishes – The Natural Alternative to Polyurethane! Stay tuned for the next post in our eco-friendly wood finishes series!

* This post may have affiliate links, which means I may receive commissions if you choose to purchase through links I provide (at no extra cost to you). As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting the work I put into this site.